Yes, but you need legal authority to sell the vehicle. The car belongs to the deceased person’s estate until properly transferred. An executor, administrator, or heir with proper documentation can sell the vehicle. The process depends on whether the estate went through probate and your state’s specific requirements.
Who can sell a deceased person’s car:
- Executor named in the will (with letters testamentary)
- Administrator appointed by probate court
- Surviving spouse (in some states, for jointly owned vehicles)
- Heir who completed small estate affidavit process
- Beneficiary after title transfer through probate
Documents typically needed:
- Death certificate
- Letters testamentary or letters of administration
- Vehicle title (signed by authorized representative)
- Your valid ID
- Small estate affidavit (for estates below state threshold)
Simplified processes for low-value vehicles:
- Many states allow small estate affidavits for estates under $50,000 to $150,000
- Some states have specific DMV forms for transferring deceased owners’ vehicles
- Junk cars often qualify for simplified procedures due to low value
If the vehicle was jointly owned with right of survivorship, the surviving owner can sell without probate. The death certificate and title are typically sufficient.
Junk car buyers handle estate sales regularly. Junk Car Medics works with executors, family members, and estate attorneys to complete these transactions properly. We can guide you through what documentation is needed in your state.
Don’t forge signatures or misrepresent ownership. Selling property from an estate without authority is illegal. Take the time to get proper documentation, even if it delays the sale by a few weeks. The legal protection is worth it.
