Estates & Powers of attorney
Worried about doing this on your own? You may be able to get free legal help.
You can use a Small Estate Affidavit (SEA) to transfer title to a car. But you need to go through the Secretary of State (SOS). This article explains the process.
Note: These steps only apply when the vehicle's title is in the name of the deceased and no one else. Also, there must not be any outstanding loan on the vehicle.
Include the make, model, year, Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and the name of the new owner.
Visit the Secretary of State's website to help you fill out and print the required forms. You can also call them or go to a facility to get the forms. Tell them you need an Application for Vehicle Transaction(s) (VSD-190) and a Proof of compliance with the Motor Vehicle Use Tax (RUT-50).
Collect these documents:
- The vehicle title (if is lost, go to the the SOS page on corrected titles)
- A certified copy of the death certificate
- A certified copy of the will, if there is one
Bring all of the above documents to a SOS facility, or send them to:
Office of the Secretary of State
Vehicle Services Department
014 Howlett Building
501 S. Second St.
Springfield, IL 62756
Remember to include a check for the fees and the taxes.
Learn more about cars and estates.
Worried about doing this on your own? You may be able to get free legal help.
