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Can I sell a deceased relative’s vehicle?

Selling a deceased relative’s vehicle through LightSpeedBid is completely possible, and the platform is built to guide you through every step so you can complete the sale legally and without unnecessary delays. When a vehicle owner passes away, the title cannot simply be signed by another family member. You need documents that prove your legal right to act on behalf of the deceased. LightSpeedBid’s system explains exactly what your state requires and matches you with buyers who accept inherited vehicles. This makes the process significantly easier than navigating it alone.

The first step is determining what type of authority you have. If the estate is going through probate, the court will typically issue legal authorization such as Letters of Administration or Letters Testamentary. These documents appoint a representative who is allowed to transfer property including vehicles. If you are the court appointed representative, you can sell the car by signing your name along with your title of executor or administrator. LightSpeedBid buyers accept this documentation as long as the paperwork matches state guidelines.

If the estate is small and does not require formal probate, many states offer a Small Estate Affidavit that allows the next of kin to transfer a vehicle without opening probate. This is the method most LightSpeedBid customers use because it is fast, inexpensive, and widely accepted for older or junk vehicles. When you enter your ZIP code, LightSpeedBid will tell you whether your state supports this option and what forms you need. Buyers will then verify the affidavit and accept the car with no complications.

If the deceased relative left the title signed but did not complete the transfer, the rules vary by state. Some states treat this as an incomplete sale and require the buyer to go through probate. Others allow a simple affidavit to finalize the transfer. LightSpeedBid identifies which rule applies in your state and guides you through it step by step.

If the title is in the deceased person’s name with no co owner, you must provide documentation such as a death certificate, your ID, and either probate documents or a small estate affidavit. LightSpeedBid does not require you to handle DMV visits alone. The platform will show buyers who are familiar with inherited vehicle rules so the transfer happens correctly.

If the title lists two owners and one has passed away, the surviving owner usually has the legal authority to sign alone. LightSpeedBid displays this clearly and matches you with buyers who accept surviving owner signatures. All you need is a copy of the death certificate to confirm the release of the deceased owner’s interest.

LightSpeedBid makes selling inherited vehicles simple by providing step by step instructions, filtering buyers based on your documents, and ensuring the sale is legally binding. The system protects you from liability and ensures the vehicle is transferred correctly without complications.