Want To Donate A 14 Y/o Car Without The Title. Would I Still Be Liable Today For Any Balance?
I would like to donate a 14 year old Lexus to a charity. It no longer runs. I do not hold the title. In 2001 I lost my job in California and did not get steady work again for about 2.5 years. Back in 2001 I had a remaining balance of $3200. I was not able to make my payments back then and the bank did not want to repossess the car but instead elected to charge off the car, which was a severe ding on my credit report. The bank which held my auto loan has long been out of business and was bought by another bank. I moved to Texas for steady work in 2004. In considering donating the car to a local charity, will I still have any liability for any kind of payment, or damages if people at the salvage yard get hurt in the vehicle?
Thanks for your help.
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Tags : Balance, Donate, Liable, Still, title, Today, Want, Without, Would
No, you shouldn’t.
December 12, 2009 12:38 am | #1But if you want to be safe, you can go to the DMV along with proof that the bank charged it off, and they can give you a new title. But that’s not necessary. Charities usually take care of this stuff for you.
The charity or even a wrecking yard will not take your car without a title. Technically you are not the owner.
December 12, 2009 1:10 am | #2You cannot legally give a car away that you do not own. Physically, perhaps, but not legally. I would never try it. Too many bad things might happen
December 12, 2009 1:35 am | #3You still owe on a car 14 years later ? Lexus and Texas ….what a combo !
December 12, 2009 1:42 am | #4In most States, you do not need a title to sell or donate a vehicle if the vehicle is more than 10 years old. I am sure there must be some paperwork involved before you donate the vehicle to charity. I believe this kind of donation is tax deductible. Once the charity takes possession of the vehicle, they are likely the new owner. However, I believe you still need to notify the DMV.
December 12, 2009 2:27 am | #5Even if for some reason you were still considered the owner, the injured party would have to prove you were negligent. Since the vehicle would not be in your care, custody or control, it is unlikely the injured party could prove you were liable.
As suggested, run this question by your local DMV or simply check their website. The charity itself should be able to answer the “ownership” questions for you.