Replacing a Lost Title: What to Do When Your Lienholder Goes Out of Business

If your lienholder has gone out of business and you can't find the owner of debts owed to the company, don't panic. You have a few different options for replacing a lost title.

The first thing to know is that if your title is lost, it's not you who needs to apply for a duplicate title - it's your lienholder. However, there are certain circumstances under which you may need to take action.

If you're in a hurry and need your title quickly, the Department of Licensing offers a Quick Title service. This service starts at $85.50 and takes up to 8 weeks to process. To apply for a quick title, you'll need to submit your application and fee to the Department of Licensing in person or by mail.

To apply for a duplicate title, you'll need to complete an Affidavit of Loss/Release of Interest (Form TD-420-040) and provide payment for the $35.50 duplicate title fee ($26.75 for boats). All registered owners of the vehicle must sign the form and the signatures must be notarized.

If there's a lien on the vehicle, the lienholder will need to apply for the replacement title. In this case, you'll need to deal directly with your lienholder to obtain a new title.

It's important to note that if you're in the process of selling your vehicle and realize that your title is missing, you'll need to replace it before completing the sale. Failing to do so could result in delays or even cancellation of the sale.

In normal cases, when replacing a lost title in Washington, you will be dealing directly with the Washington State Department of Licensing. To apply for a duplicate title, you can submit your application and fee to the Department of Licensing in person at any vehicle licensing office or by mail. The process typically takes up to 8 weeks, but if you need your title immediately, the Quick Title service may be a good option.

By following these steps, you should be able to replace your lost title and get back on the road.

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