Transferring a Car After Someone Dies in Massachusetts
How to transfer a vehicle title after the owner dies in Massachusetts, from the official motor vehicle agency.
Short answer: A vehicle can be transferred through probate by the appointed personal representative, who signs the title assignment to the heir or buyer; the new owner then applies for a new certificate of title. M.G.L. c. 190B, § 3-1201; c. 90D, § 15
| Transferring a car after death | A vehicle can be transferred through probate by the appointed personal representative, who signs the title assignment to the heir or buyer; the new owner then applies for a new certificate of title. For small estates, a vehicle can be handled through voluntary administration: the voluntary personal representative is treated as the estate's personal representative for registry purposes and may receive and sell the vehicle. The Registry of Motor Vehicles also offers an Affidavit of Surviving Spouse for a surviving spouse who wants to transfer or sell the decedent's vehicle. Title assignment and application for a new title: https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleXIV/Chapter90D/Section15 |
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FAQ
How do I transfer a car title after someone dies in Massachusetts?
A vehicle can be transferred through probate by the appointed personal representative, who signs the title assignment to the heir or buyer; the new owner then applies for a new certificate of title. For small estates, a vehicle can be handled through voluntary administration: the voluntary personal representative is treated as the estate's personal representative for registry purposes and may receive and sell the vehicle. The Registry of Motor Vehicles also offers an Affidavit of Surviving Spouse for a surviving spouse who wants to transfer or sell the decedent's vehicle.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.