How Much Is a Lost Title in Illinois?
Losing the title to your vehicle can be a frustrating experience. Whether it was misplaced, stolen, or destroyed, a lost title can cause a lot of inconvenience. In the state of Illinois, obtaining a duplicate title is necessary to prove ownership of your vehicle. However, many people are unsure about the cost and process of obtaining a replacement title. In this article, we will discuss how much a lost title in Illinois costs and provide answers to frequently asked questions about this process.
Cost of Obtaining a Duplicate Title in Illinois:
The cost of obtaining a duplicate title in Illinois varies depending on the circumstances. If your title was stolen, you may need to file a police report before applying for a duplicate title. The fee for a stolen title, including the cost of a police report, is $95. If your title was lost or destroyed, the fee for a duplicate title is $50. These fees are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to verify the current cost with the Illinois Secretary of State’s office.
Process of Obtaining a Duplicate Title:
To obtain a duplicate title in Illinois, you will need to follow a few simple steps. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
1. Complete the Application: Fill out the Application for Vehicle Transaction(s) (Form VSD 190) provided by the Illinois Secretary of State’s office. Be sure to provide accurate information, including the vehicle identification number (VIN) and your personal information.
2. Provide Proof of Ownership: In order to obtain a duplicate title, you must prove your ownership of the vehicle. This can be done by providing a copy of your registration card, a previous title, or any other relevant document that proves your ownership.
3. Pay the Fee: As mentioned earlier, the cost of a duplicate title in Illinois varies depending on the circumstances. Make sure to include the appropriate payment with your application. You can pay by check, money order, or credit card.
4. Submit the Application: Once you have completed the application and gathered all the necessary documents, you can submit them to the Illinois Secretary of State’s office. You can either mail the application or visit a local Secretary of State facility in person.
5. Receive Your Duplicate Title: After processing your application, the Illinois Secretary of State’s office will issue a duplicate title for your vehicle. This may take a few weeks, but you will receive your duplicate title by mail.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I obtain a duplicate title if I still owe money on my vehicle?
A: Yes, you can still obtain a duplicate title if you have an outstanding loan on your vehicle. However, the duplicate title will be issued to the lienholder rather than you. Once you have paid off the loan, you can request the title to be transferred to your name.
Q: What should I do if my vehicle is registered in another state?
A: If your vehicle is registered in another state, you will need to contact the motor vehicle agency in that state to obtain a duplicate title. The process and fees may vary from state to state.
Q: Can I obtain a duplicate title if I am not the registered owner?
A: No, only the registered owner of the vehicle can obtain a duplicate title. If you are not the registered owner, you will need to provide a power of attorney or a notarized letter from the registered owner authorizing you to apply for a duplicate title on their behalf.
Q: What if my vehicle is leased?
A: If your vehicle is leased, you will need to contact the leasing company to obtain a duplicate title. The leasing company will then handle the process on your behalf.
Q: Can I expedite the process of obtaining a duplicate title?
A: Yes, if you need your duplicate title urgently, you can opt for expedited processing by paying an additional fee. This will ensure that your duplicate title is processed and mailed to you more quickly.
In conclusion, the cost of obtaining a lost title in Illinois varies depending on the circumstances. If your title was stolen, the fee is $95, while for lost or destroyed titles, it is $50. The process involves completing an application, providing proof of ownership, paying the fee, and submitting the application to the Illinois Secretary of State’s office. It is important to follow the correct steps and provide accurate information to ensure a smooth process. If you have any further questions or concerns, it is recommended to contact the Illinois Secretary of State’s office for assistance.