You should be aware that the boat title transfer and recording for the sake of insurance might be a bit of a challenge if you are a yacht owner. But there’s no need to worry since we’re here to assist you! In this article, we will take you step-by-step through the process of changing your boat’s title and documenting the change for insurance purposes. Therefore, read on to get all the necessary information to complete the task. As the owner of a USGC vessel, you must be familiar with the procedures for correctly documenting and transferring your boat’s title. In order to make the process go as smoothly as possible, here are some helpful hints.
Make Sure You Have All The Necessary Paperwork In Order
If you want to insure your yacht, you need to update the paperwork even if the title is already in your name. The first thing you must do after buying a boat or acquiring ownership of one is to register it with the Coast Guard. You’ll need this to get insurance, which will help you get a state-issued title certificate. If your boat’s registration has expired, you should verify its status with the Coast Guard. If you haven’t retained any documentation of your boat’s ownership, proving your title might be difficult.
Although the Coast Guard is usually helpful in such situations, you should verify this before you leave them; even if they can assist you over the phone, you should still visit an office in person to get a certified copy of the relevant documentation. There are many options for acquiring a title deed after you have completed the necessary documentation. You may accomplish this via your state’s DMV or DOR office or with the help of a boat dealer (if they’re willing).
Determine Who Will Be The Legal Owner Of The Vessel
Sort out who will be the ship’s official owner. If the person you acquired the boat from is no longer living, you should adequately inquire with the state of registration about the boat title transfer. A dealer or broker from whom you purchased the item ought to be able to locate it for you. Boats must typically be titled to a person in many jurisdictions; however, this may not be the case in yours (for example, registering it in a business name).
The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or your insurance carrier may be able to help you sort out the details before you go any further. Proof of identity (such as an ID card copy) and citizenship are often required (such as a birth certificate or passport). If you own more than the number of boats covered by your insurance, you may be forced to sell one. Once you have determined the appropriate level of protection, you may go through with the boat title transfer.
Fill Out And Submit The Appropriate Forms To Your State’s Department Of Motor Vehicles
Boat ownership documentation is necessary if you want to keep your boat in good shape. One of the most important things to remember is that each state has its own standards, so it’s best to check with your DMV to see what you’ll need. Contact the Department of Motor Vehicles and request an application for boat registration or titling. In it, you’ll get a complete breakdown of the costs and paperwork you’ll need to submit. According to mass.gov, a title must be obtained from the seller of the boat. If this is the case, remember that if the person who handed you the title did not also sign it, they do not have legal title to the item (they have a bill of sale). You’ll need to get this person’s title; therefore, it’s in your best interest to learn where and how they obtained it.
Pay Any Applicable Fees Associated With Boat Title Transfer.
Registering and titling a boat often incurs some cost in many jurisdictions. Some ask for a percentage of the boat’s worth, while others charge an application fee. You may find out the exact amount and due date by contacting your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (the sooner, the better). Knowing how long you have before they begin collecting interest on unpaid fees is essential if you plan on getting the boat titled before paying for it. This is the usual procedure when making a significant purchase, like a boat. In the long run, this might end up saving you cash. If your state requires you to register your boating license number with your boat title, follow the guidelines provided by your department of motor vehicles.
If the title to your boat or vessel is lost or damaged and you need a replacement, or if you bought a new boat and need it documented for insurance purposes, contact the Maritime Documentation Center today at 800-535-8570. Our experienced experts can help you determine which type of documentation you need and how to get it at the least hassle and highest convenience for you.