Abandoned Vehicle

Thu, 05/19/2022 - 12:00

Use Form W-9 to provide your correct Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) to the person who is required to file an information return with the IRS to report, for example, the acquisition or abandonment of secured property.

See "Abandoned Vehicles" page.

In addition to State of Vermont laws, there may be municipal abandoned motor vehicle ordinances that must be adhered to. You must check with the town/municipality to find out whether or not they have any such ordinances.

If the DMV issues a Certificate of Abandoned Motor Vehicle, title to the motor vehicle will be given to the holder of the Certificate of Abandoned Motor Vehicle, free from all claims. The DMV will issue an appropriate title or salvage title at no charge. Unless is it proven that intentionally inflicted damage or gross negligence has occurred, the State of Vermont (and any of its agents or employees) will not be liable to the owner for any damage to the motor vehicle during the period in which the state retains custody.

Title brands indicate whether a used vehicle has sustained damage or might be potentially unsafe to drive. If a vehicle's title has been "branded," it is an official designation made by a state agency and should appear on the vehicle's title paperwork.

A Vermont title may have no more than 9 total brands. When a non-Vermont title is transferred to Vermont, all brands existing will be carried forward.

Wed, 06/14/2023 - 12:00

To identify and notify the owner of an abandoned vehicle as required by law. If no owner can be identified, the DMV will issue a Certificate of Abandoned Motor Vehicle along with an appropriate title or salvage title. If seeking reimbursement for towing you are required to also submit a completed IRS W-9 form.

Definition of abandoned vehicle and how to remove or reclaim one.