Transferring a Car After Someone Dies in Ohio
How to transfer a vehicle title after the owner dies in Ohio, from the official motor vehicle agency.
Short answer: Ohio titles are handled by the clerk of the court of common pleas title office. If the title names a transfer-on-death beneficiary, the beneficiary applies for a new title and presents the title and the death certificate. Ohio Rev. Code 4505.10; 2106.18; 2131.13
| Transferring a car after death | Ohio titles are handled by the clerk of the court of common pleas title office. If the title names a transfer-on-death beneficiary, the beneficiary applies for a new title and presents the title and the death certificate. If the vehicle was owned jointly with right of survivorship, the survivor presents the title and the death certificate. A surviving spouse may select one or more automobiles not otherwise disposed of, worth up to $65,000 in total, by submitting the title(s) with a surviving spouse affidavit giving the date of death, a description and approximate value of each vehicle; these vehicles are not estate assets. Otherwise, title passes through the estate: the executor or administrator transfers it (some transfers need probate court approval), or the heir applies with an affidavit and a copy of the court order or instrument showing ownership. Liens are not affected. |
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FAQ
How do I transfer a car title after someone dies in Ohio?
Ohio titles are handled by the clerk of the court of common pleas title office. If the title names a transfer-on-death beneficiary, the beneficiary applies for a new title and presents the title and the death certificate. If the vehicle was owned jointly with right of survivorship, the survivor presents the title and the death certificate. A surviving spouse may select one or more automobiles not otherwise disposed of, worth up to $65,000 in total, by submitting the title(s) with a surviving spouse affidavit giving the date of death, a description and approximate value of each vehicle; these vehicles are not estate assets. Otherwise, title passes through the estate: the executor or administrator transfers it (some transfers need probate court approval), or the heir applies with an affidavit and a copy of the court order or instrument showing ownership. Liens are not affected.
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.