Navigating the Ins and Outs of Arizona Bonded Titles - EZ Title & Registration

In the realm of vehicle ownership, the term “bonded title” often emerges, carrying with it a sense of mystery and confusion. If you’re in Arizona and find yourself in need of one, fear not; this blog aims to shed light on the intricacies of Arizona bonded titles, demystifying the process and providing you with the knowledge you need to navigate it with confidence.

Understanding Bonded Titles:

Before delving into the specifics of Arizona bonded titles, let’s grasp the concept at its core. A bonded title, also known as a certificate of title surety or bonded certificate of title, is a legal document that proves ownership of a vehicle when the original title is missing, defective, or insufficient. It essentially serves as a replacement to the title to allow for registration and issuance of a certificate of title in your name.

When Might You Need a Bonded Title in Arizona?

Several situations may necessitate the acquisition of a bonded title in Arizona:

• Missing Title: If you purchase a vehicle or mobile home without a title or if the original title is lost, stolen, or damaged beyond recognition, you’ll need a bonded title to establish legal ownership.
• Incomplete Paperwork: In cases where the seller fails to provide the necessary documentation for a standard title transfer, opting for a bonded title can resolve the issue.
• Unresolved Liens: If a vehicle has outstanding liens against it and the original title cannot be obtained due to unresolved financial obligations, a bonded title may be pursued to clear the title.
• Homemade Trailers: Some homemade trailers require a bonded title due to the cost to build and lack of ownership documents (receipts)

The Process of Obtaining a Bonded Title in Arizona:

Acquiring a bonded title in Arizona involves several steps, which may vary depending on your specific circumstances. Here’s a general overview of the process:

The Bonded Title Process:

EZ Title & Registration can handle the bonded title process from start to finish. The first step of the process is to have an inspection done on the vehicle to verify the VIN. This can be done at any of our offices or at the address where the vehicle is located.

1. Surety Bond: One of the primary components of obtaining a bonded title is securing a surety bond. This bond serves as a form of insurance that protects against any potential claims to the vehicle’s ownership. You’ll need to purchase a bond from a licensed surety company, typically equal to 1.5 times the vehicle’s average retail value as determined usually via JD Power or a like site.
2. When the time comes in the process, EZ Title can obtain the surety bond so you do not have to deal with any insurance companies.
3. Application Submission: Complete the required application forms provided by the EZ Title, including the appropriate sections for bonded titles. Be sure to include all supporting documentation, such as bills of sale, affidavits of ownership, and any other relevant paperwork.
4. Payment of Fees: Expect to pay various fees associated with the bonded title process, including application fees, title fees, and any applicable taxes or surcharges.
5. Wait for Approval : This process can take several weeks, so patience is key. While waiting, a temporary registration plate may be available after starting the bonded title process to allow its use while the documentation is completed

Conclusion:

Navigating the realm of Arizona bonded titles may seem daunting at first, but armed with the right knowledge and guidance, it becomes a manageable endeavor. By understanding the purpose of bonded titles, knowing when they’re needed, and following the necessary steps for acquisition, you can confidently assert your ownership rights over your vehicle. Whether you’re facing a missing title, incomplete paperwork, or unresolved liens, the path to a bonded title in Arizona is within reach, ensuring you can hit the road with peace of mind.

Contact EZ Title & Registration to help you navigate the bonded title process! To make an appointment for a VIN inspection to start the bonded title process, please click here .