April 15, 2024
Follow These 3 Steps!
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When it comes to buying, selling, or maintaining ownership of a vehicle, having a clean title is essential. A clean title indicates that the car has never been in a serious accident, has no record of being totaled, and doesn’t have any outstanding financial obligations or liens.
Having liens on your car can make it challenging to obtain insurance, sell or trade the vehicle, or even apply for a loan using it as collateral. A lien indicates that a creditor or bank has a legal interest in your vehicle due to outstanding debts. Essentially, a car with a lien is not entirely yours.
So, how can you verify the cleanliness of your car title? How will you know that it’s completely lien-free so you won’t have any trouble selling it? Find out below as we walk you through these three steps:
- Step 1: Verify your VIN.
Start by locating your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This unique code is used by the automotive industry to identify individual motor vehicles and towed vehicles. You can find it on the car’s dashboard, driver’s side door, or in your vehicle registration documents.
- Step 2: Obtain a vehicle history report.
Using your VIN, purchase a vehicle history report to access detailed information about your car. This report will provide insights into the title history, accident history, mileage, previous owners, and any liens associated with the vehicle. Online services like Carfax and AutoCheck offer comprehensive vehicle history reports using the VIN.
- Step 3: Check with your local DMV or BMV.
Contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) to inquire about liens on your car. Some states provide online resources to check the status of your car title, while others may require you to visit the office in person or call for assistance. The DMV or BMV can verify the existence of any liens and provide information about the lienholder.
What to Do If There’s a Lien
If the DMV or your vehicle history report shows a lien on your car, contact the lienholder, typically a bank or financial institution. They can provide information about the outstanding debt and guide you on how to pay it off. Once the lien is settled, the lienholder will provide a lien release document. File this document with the DMV to obtain a clean title.
Turn Your Old Auto into a Source of Hope for Veterans in Need
If you would have to spend a fortune for the repair of your old car to get it running again, you may be better off purchasing a new vehicle instead.
Don’t worry, you can still put your beater to good use by donating it to us at Veteran Car Donations. We will use your vehicle to help struggling veterans in your community overcome their challenges and lead more productive lives.
Our team will have your car fixed before selling it through an auction. The proceeds will go directly to reputable military and veteran nonprofit organizations that are in partnership with us. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits are dedicated to helping homeless and impoverished veterans, those unable to find jobs, and those suffering from disabilities and serious illnesses, including mental health issues.
Our charity partners use the funding to provide their beneficiaries with housing and financial assistance, family support, employment opportunities, free comprehensive healthcare and medical treatment, psychotherapy services, educational scholarships, and more.
As a donor, you will be entitled to claim the highest possible tax deduction in the next tax season. Expect the 100% tax-deductible sales receipt of your vehicle in your mailbox within 30 days of its sale.
Our donation process is smooth, hassle-free, and convenient. We handle all the required documents and provide FREE towing at a date, time, and location of your choice, anywhere in the United States.
We accept almost all types of vehicles, regardless of age or condition. Visit this page to learn about the other types of vehicles we accept besides standard cars.
For any questions or concerns, reach us at 877-594-5822 or message us here. Visit our FAQs page for more information on our car donation program.
It’s Time to Give Back to Our Heroes!
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Show your community’s hurting heroes that there’s still hope for them. Make a difference in their lives by donating your unwanted vehicle to Veteran Car Donations. Call 877-594-5822 or fill out our secure online donation form now!
Last Updated: April 15th, 2024