Can You Get a New Jersey Bonded Title? Improper Evidence of Ownership Procedure

The state of New Jersey poses a unique approach to bonded titles, creating some confusion among vehicle owners. Unlike most states, New Jersey’s process, termed the “improper evidence of ownership procedure,” does not mandate the purchase of a bond. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of the New Jersey bonded title process, shedding light on the steps involved and the alternatives, such as the court-ordered title.

Understanding the New Jersey Process
When obtaining a title in New Jersey without proper evidence of ownership, the state requires adherence to a specific procedure. It’s essential to note that New Jersey stands apart from other states where a bonded title process involves acquiring a bond certificate from a bonding agent, often at a significant cost. In New Jersey, it is referred to as the improper evidence of ownership procedure, which, although distinct, involves additional steps.

The 12-Step Procedure
To initiate the New Jersey bonded title process, a comprehensive 12-step procedure must be followed. The procedure, outlined by the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC), begins with a proof of ownership lean search application. This involves submitting $15 to the DMV for a printout detailing any lean, stolen status, or salvage information. Importantly, this step must be completed before proceeding further.

Completing the necessary forms
Once the title search information is received, the process continues with the completion of the essential forms. The emergency application for a vehicle title (form SS150) is to be fully completed and notarized. Simultaneously, an advertisement must be placed in a local newspaper, signaling an intent to obtain a title for the vehicle. This step is accompanied by reaching out to the local police department to ensure there are no issues with the vehicle’s status.

Communication and documentation
Further steps involve filing an SS45, a notice of intent to obtain a title, to be sent to the last owner and lean holder. Additionally, a bill of sale, photographs of the VIN and the vehicle, and three letters from individuals affirming the vehicle’s possession are required. These meticulous steps are essential for proving ownership.

Title Application and Finalization
The final steps include completing a regular title application (SS7), submitting a $60 check for the title fee, and paying 7% sales tax. A signed SS94, affirming personal use only and not for resale, is also mandatory. With these components in place, the New Jersey bonded title process is on its way to completion.

Forms and documentation details
A crucial aspect of the process involves understanding and correctly filling out various forms. From the title search lean request to the buyer’s declaration emergency application, notice of intent to obtain title, and the regular title application, each form plays a role in establishing ownership.

While the New Jersey bonded title process may seem intricate, understanding the steps involved empowers vehicle owners to make informed decisions. Whether navigating the process independently or utilizing a title service, individuals should also consider the court-order title process, which offers a simpler alternative with fewer steps. Ultimately, for New Jersey residents facing title challenges, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of the bonded title process and available options.

Watch our YouTube video: https://youtu.be/HJIF8o2I5tQ?si=bXj20HiCBeHyT8gQ

What Is Going On With Vermont Titles?

New Laws and the End of the Vermont Title Loophole
In 2024, Vermont will witness significant changes in its titling and registration laws. A wave of new regulations has swept in, impacting residents and stirring potential controversies. The year started with the discontinuation of the infamous Vermont title loophole, which allowed out-of-state registrations. This change, implemented in June 2023, only permits the loophole for Vermont residents or those with explicit permission from their home state.

Stricter Regulations for Older Vehicles
The latest blow comes in 2024, as Vermont no longer issues registrations for vehicles older than 15 years. Even Vermont residents must now navigate the titling process for vehicles of any age, adding an extra layer of complexity. This poses a challenge for current registration holders, including those who were accustomed to obtaining registrations for older vehicles without the need for a title. The impact is demonstrated through the experience of the Maxwells attempting to register their 2005 Jeep.

Challenges for Current Registration Holders
The Maxwells, attempting to register their 2005 Jeep, face an unexpected hurdle. Previously, due to the age of the vehicle, they could secure a registration without a title. However, the recent changes necessitate a title for all vehicles, regardless of age. This raises concerns for individuals who never acquired a title for their vehicles, potentially leading to complications for existing Vermont registration holders.

Voided Out-of-State Vermont Registrations
Moreover, individuals who possess out-of-state Vermont registrations are facing a dilemma. The recent changes will void these registrations, creating an additional challenge for those who have already registered their vehicles. The process to resolve this involves utilizing the VIN number and an affidavit, but the inconvenience for affected individuals is undeniable.

Rising Fees and Administrative Changes
Adding to the mix, the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles is increasing its fees, further impacting residents. The heightened fees add financial strain, making the registration and titling process more burdensome than before. These changes signal a significant shift in the landscape of vehicle registrations in the state.

The Enforcement Director was placed on administrative leave.
Beyond the legislative changes, the Vermont DMV is facing internal challenges. The Director of Enforcement, who assumed the role just a few months ago, has been placed on administrative leave. Formerly a police chief and detective, this individual is now under FBI investigation. The nature of the investigation remains unclear, leaving room for speculation about potential wrongdoings or issues within the enforcement division.

Speculations Surrounding the FBI Investigation
The FBI’s involvement in the investigation adds an extra layer of intrigue. While details remain scarce, the situation raises questions about the enforcement director’s actions or potential internal problems within the DMV’s enforcement division. As the investigation unfolds, the impact on the Vermont DMV and its overall operations remains uncertain.

Conclusion and Call for Vigilance
The unfolding developments at the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles paint a picture of uncertainty and change. With legislative reforms, administrative shifts, and an ongoing FBI investigation, the future remains unclear. As the situation evolves, residents and stakeholders must stay vigilant to understand the full extent of these changes and their implications for Vermont’s motor vehicle processes. Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving situation.

Watch our YouTube video: https://youtu.be/_btvKu27pKU?si=RBncHxjHg7CU5N3s

No More Vermont Titles Ever

The Rise and Fall of Vermont Title Loopholes
Well, if you’re here and reading this, it’s because you’ve heard something about getting a title from Vermont—maybe you’ve heard a lot about getting a title from Vermont. This has been a subject for more than 10 years, using a loophole to get a title from Vermont.

The End of an Era in 2023
Well, if you’re familiar with it and you’re a veteran, you probably already know this: all good things must come to an end. In June 2023, the state of Vermont finally caved into pressure from other states to stop issuing these loophole registrations to people all over the country.

The Loophole Process and its Termination
In order for them to use that to get a title in their state, you could use a bill of sale and get a registration and a license plate from Vermont, take that as your proof of ownership, bring it to your state, and switch over for a title. Now, the other secret is that a lot of people never switched it over; they just kept driving on Vermont plates in their state. That’s a whole other issue.

The End of Vermont Registrations for Out-of-State Residents
Finally, as of January 2024, when we’re doing this video, Vermont will no longer give registrations to people from out of state. In fact, they don’t issue registrations for old cars anymore. You have to get a title, which means you have to have the old title.

Resident Restrictions and the Permission Slip Dilemma
Even if you did that, you have to be a resident of Vermont. They do not give titles, registrations, or anything else to out-of-state residents. Even if you get the magic permission slip signed, you’ll see in prior videos and on our website what we used to talk about. Look, if you can get your state to give you a permission slip to sign it from your DMV to let Vermont give you an out-of-state registration, we’ll still do it. Most states weren’t doing that anyway, but now that’s over.

The Drawbacks of Vermont as a Title Solution
Vermont wasn’t the best way to get a title, even going back two or three years. There were other methods that were way better; they were cheaper. Vermont used to charge you outrageous sales tax; that’s why they kept doing it because they’re making a lot of money. Vermont made you jump through a lot of hoops.

The Cautionary Tales of Using Loopholes
So, you can still do all the other legal methods of getting a title in your state. Don’t use any of these out-of-state loopholes because they’re just going to come back to haunt you. In fact, we’re hearing stories from people who got a Vermont registration in 2022-2023, used it to get a title in their state, did the loophole, and now their state is going back and revoking their title because they didn’t do it the proper way.

Alternatives to Vermont Titles
What does that mean for you if you have a vehicle that you need to get a title for but don’t have proper documentation for? That’s okay. There are methods you could use; you could do a bonded title, a court order title, or a magistrate title prior to a contact. There are three or four different methods; they’re all better than Vermont ever was, they’re cheaper, and it’s just paperwork.

Vermont is Dead. Choose the Right Path.
Our website will give you the instructions; you could do it all yourself for free. We have a title service if you want our assistance; we’re glad to help. But, probably for the better, the Vermont thing is officially dead. There were a couple of little ways you could kind of still use it up until about a month ago by getting permission from your state, having an old car, and all that stuff. Now it’s over. Vermont will not give you anything if you don’t live in Vermont with a license. So, do it the proper way; go through your state; don’t use any of these out-of-state loopholes, urban legends, because they’re just going to come back to haunt you.

Seeking guidance and assistance
Our website will give you the instructions; if you’d like more information, you can call us up. The phone number is on the website below; you can even schedule a consultation with a title agent if you prefer, or we have title service where we can do all the paperwork for you.

The Era of Vermont is Officially Over
So, yes, the short answer is that Vermont is officially done. It was kind of over 6 months ago, but there were still some pathways you could try to use it. But now, forget about it. Vermont is dead. Forget about Vermont. If it’s the first time you’ve heard about it, you didn’t miss anything. If you’ve been using Vermont before, okay, now you can switch to Plan B. But Plan B is out there, and it’s better than Vermont ever was.

Watch our YouTube video: https://youtu.be/PwtR3B6MqEs?si=0HGfKACVdxmkvMbE

Clean VIN Search Might Still Be A Title Problem

Welcome to our blog, where we shed light on crucial aspects of vehicle ownership. Today, we delve into a recent incident in Texas that serves as a stark reminder of why buying a vehicle without a title can be a perilous decision.

The Texas Dilemma: A Rented Car Sold Without a Title

In Texas, a woman attempted to sell a vehicle at a discounted price, seemingly a great deal. However, the catch was that the vehicle was a rental car. The woman had rented it from an auto rental establishment and was now trying to offload it to an unsuspecting buyer.

Title Checks Can Be Deceptive: The Rental Car Conundrum

One might wonder, “If I buy a car with a bill of sale and it has a clean title, isn’t that sufficient?” Unfortunately, the Texas incident proves otherwise. A title check on this vehicle wouldn’t reveal any liens, as it’s a rental car. Stolen status wouldn’t be flagged either since it was legitimately rented. On the surface, everything might seem in order, but the absence of a valid title poses significant risks to the buyer.

Why a Bill of Sale Alone Is Insufficient

For those contemplating a purchase based on a bill of sale, it’s essential to recognize its limitations. A bill of sale serves as a transaction receipt but falls short in establishing ownership. It doesn’t prove the seller’s ownership or the buyer’s legitimacy. In cases like the Texas scenario, where a rental car is involved, a bill of sale alone would not assist in obtaining a title.

The Illusion of a Clean Title: A Costly Mistake

Even if you perform a title check on such a vehicle, it may appear clean – no reported liens, no salvage status, and no back taxes. However, the absence of a legitimate title can lead to a nightmarish scenario.

The Hard Truth: Without a Title, Your Ownership Is at Risk

The moral of this cautionary tale is clear: do not buy a car without a title. While the risk might be lower for inexpensive, old barn finds, it’s crucial to understand that until you hold a government-issued title with your name on it, your ownership is not legally recognized.

Recovery Tools and Resources: Available on Our Website

For those facing title-related challenges, our website provides an array of tools and resources to assist in the title recovery process. However, the ultimate lesson remains – ownership is not secured until a valid title is issued by the government in your name.

Conclusion: Safeguard Your Investment, Insist on a Title

In conclusion, this Texas incident serves as a stark reminder that a seemingly good deal can turn into a financial nightmare without a valid title. Insist on obtaining a proper title at the time of purchase to safeguard your investment and ensure legal ownership.

Have Questions or Need Assistance? We’re Here to Help!

If you have questions or find yourself in a title-related predicament, our team is ready to assist you. Reach out to us through our website for personalized guidance and support.

Drive with Confidence, Own with Assurance!

Don’t let the allure of a discounted price blind you to the risks of buying a vehicle without a title. Drive with confidence by ensuring you have a valid title that officially recognizes you as the legal owner. Your peace of mind on the road begins with a secure and legitimate ownership journey.

Safe Driving and Informed Ownership!

Does My State Accept Vermont Loophole Titles?

If you’ve delved into the intricacies of obtaining a title for your vehicle, you’ve likely come across the Vermont loophole, a method that involves registering your vehicle in Vermont and then transferring the registration to your home state. The allure of this approach lies in its perceived simplicity, but before you embark on this journey, it’s essential to understand the potential challenges and weigh the alternatives.

The Vermont Loophole: Not a Well-Kept Secret

The Vermont loophole is no clandestine strategy; it has been widely discussed in articles, automotive publications, and even recognized by insurance companies like Hagerty. This popularity, however, comes with a caveat – all 50 states’ DMVs are well-aware of this loophole, and their responses can vary.

The Risk of State DMV Resistance

While many states have historically accepted Vermont registrations for title purposes, there’s no guarantee your state will do the same. DMV policies can change, and certain states may, at times, resist this approach. Instances of states temporarily rejecting Vermont registrations have occurred in the past, only to revert to acceptance after a period.

The Unknown Factors: DMV Agents and Policies

On any given day, your interaction with a DMV agent, the specific branch, or even the policies set by the state commissioner can influence the outcome of your attempt to use a Vermont registration. Some agents may accept it without issue, while others may scrutinize it more closely, potentially leading to rejection.

Sales Tax and Additional Fees

Utilizing the Vermont loophole comes with its costs. Vermont requires payment of sales tax based on the book value of your vehicle, not the purchase price. Additionally, you’ll need to pay their registration fees and wait for license plates and registration. Upon returning to your state, you’ll be required to pay your state’s fees, adding an extra layer of expenses.

Consider the Direct Route: Your State’s Requirements

Before opting for the Vermont loophole, it’s crucial to evaluate whether it’s truly the best route. Contrary to popular belief, the requirements for obtaining a title directly from your state may not be significantly more challenging. Often, the perception of one’s state DMV being difficult arises from unfamiliarity with other states’ procedures.

The Case for Exploring Other Options

The Vermont loophole might seem like an ingenious workaround, but it’s not always the most practical choice. Exploring other options directly available in your state can often be faster, cheaper, and more straightforward. Don’t disregard these alternatives simply because they might appear more challenging initially.

Case in Point: Kit Car Dilemma

An illustrative example involves a client attempting to title a kit car. The client considered the Vermont loophole to avoid inspection requirements in their state. However, the complexities of paying taxes in Vermont, potential requirements, and the ultimate need for inspection in their home state made the direct route a more viable option.

Informed Decision Making

While the Vermont loophole remains a frequently used method, it’s not without its downsides. Before proceeding, consider other available options in your state and weigh the potential risks and costs associated with the Vermont approach. Ultimately, being well-informed and exploring all avenues will empower you to make the best decision for securing your vehicle’s title.