[MS] [MI] How do I prove ownership without title?
I bought a camper in Mississippi from a relative. We can't locate the title, and he never registered the RV. The camper was totaled during the tropical storm and has been declared a total loss by my insurance company. I need to get the RV registered in my name in order for the insurance to pay out. What do I need to do? I do have the bill of sale.
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I’m sorry to hear your camper was totaled. Since the original title was never received, getting it registered is more complicated but doable. Your bill of sale and a copy of the title will help with the title search process. A bonded title is an option the state suggested.
The bonded title route is worth exploring. A bonded title lets you prove ownership when the original title is missing or defective. You generally must: (1) complete the state application, (2) submit proof of ownership (bill of sale, copy of title), (3) obtain a surety bond for the required amount, and (4) submit everything to the state. The surety bond protects prior owners or lienholders if someone later proves a superior claim. Once approved, the state issues a bonded title; after a statutory period (varies by state), you can usually apply for a regular title if no claims are made (§ 63-21-23).
Since the insurance needs title to process the payout, getting a bonded title to establish legal ownership is key.
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I bought a camper in Mississippi from a relative. We can't locate the title, and he never registered the RV. The camper was totaled during the tropical storm and has been declared a total loss by my insurance company. I need to get the RV registered in my name in order for the insurance to pay out. What do I need to do? I do have the bill of sale.
I'm sorry to hear that. Do you have any other documentation from the purchase besides the bill of sale?
No, I don't.
Have you tried contacting the Mississippi Department of Revenue or the local DMV to ask about obtaining a duplicate title or transferring ownership without the original title?
I have. They are saying I need to do a title search.
Is there anything else the consumer protection lawyer should know before I connect you?
I do have a copy of the title, however the original owner never received the real title.
Hello! My name is TJ and I’m an attorney. Thanks for the opportunity to assist you.
Thanks.
I’m sorry to hear your camper was totaled. Since the original title was never received, getting it registered is more complicated but doable. Your bill of sale and a copy of the title will help with the title search process. A bonded title is an option the state suggested.
The bonded title route is worth exploring. A bonded title lets you prove ownership when the original title is missing or defective. You generally must: (1) complete the state application, (2) submit proof of ownership (bill of sale, copy of title), (3) obtain a surety bond for the required amount, and (4) submit everything to the state. The surety bond protects prior owners or lienholders if someone later proves a superior claim. Once approved, the state issues a bonded title; after a statutory period (varies by state), you can usually apply for a regular title if no claims are made (§ 63-21-23).
Since the insurance needs title to process the payout, getting a bonded title to establish legal ownership is key.
The relative will be able to assist with any information needed.
That’s good — their cooperation will help. The state recommending a bonded title is standard when the original title is missing. If you prefer, a local title company can usually handle the bonded title process and filings with the Department of Revenue.
They suggested I do a bonded title. I have a local title company that will help the process.
Great — the title company can prepare the application, help procure the surety bond, and submit everything to the state. That will give you the documented ownership the insurer needs for the claim.
I think that answers my question. I have a local title company that will help with the process.
I’m happy I could help — good luck getting it closed out.
TJ, Esq.
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