Finding unclaimed money in Alabama may seem like a daunting task, but the state has resources to help you reclaim what’s rightfully yours. This article provides a comprehensive guide to understanding Alabama’s unclaimed property laws, specifically focusing on abandoned or unclaimed vehicles. We will outline the procedures for reporting and selling such vehicles, as mandated by Alabama law.
Understanding Alabama’s Unclaimed Vehicle Laws
Alabama law, specifically Act 2019-245, outlines procedures for handling unclaimed or abandoned motor vehicles. This law requires a 60-day hold on title records for vehicles reported as unclaimed, extending the previous 45-day hold. It also mandates that titles for vehicles bought from non-bonded or bonded agents (if the buyer doesn’t apply for a title within a year) be issued under a surety bond as per §32-8-36 of the Alabama Code.
Towing companies can become designated agents of the Alabama Department of Revenue (ALDOR) to handle these situations. Information on becoming a designated agent is available on the ALDOR website. Legislative Act 2015-470 further clarified these regulations, requiring specific reporting procedures for unclaimed and abandoned vehicles.
Reporting and Selling Unclaimed/Abandoned Vehicles in Alabama
Before selling an unclaimed or abandoned vehicle, specific steps must be followed using ALDOR’s Unclaimed/Abandoned vehicle portal.
Reporting an Unclaimed Vehicle
Within five days of a vehicle being deemed “unclaimed,” it must be reported to ALDOR via their online portal. A 60-day hold is then placed on the title. “Unclaimed” is defined as a vehicle left unattended for more than 48 hours on public or private property without the owner’s consent, or a vehicle left for repairs and not reclaimed within 48 hours of completion or the agreed upon redemption date. It’s crucial to report within this timeframe, as storage fees are assessed only after the five-day window. Failure to report results in forfeiting all claims for storage fees.
Notification Requirements
After the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) report identifies the vehicle’s last state of issuance, the reporting entity must follow that state’s procedures for record requests. Within five days of receiving the record, the possessor must send a certified Notice of Possession to the registered owner, titled owner, and lienholder, also reporting this to ALDOR. Failure to notify these parties will lead to case closure and necessitate restarting the process.
Public Auction Procedures
Notice of Public Auction must be submitted to ALDOR through the portal. If the auction occurs in the vehicle’s last registered county, it must be advertised weekly for two consecutive weeks in a local publication, with the auction date at least 35 days after the first publication. ALDOR then sends a Notice of Termination to the owner and lienholder, who can contest the sale in circuit court. The vehicle can be sold 35 days after the Notice of Public Auction, with the bill of sale generated through the portal used to apply for a new Alabama title. If the vehicle is returned, the reporting entity must report the redemption within five days.
Conclusion
Navigating Alabama’s unclaimed vehicle process requires careful attention to detail and adherence to specific timelines. Utilizing ALDOR’s resources, specifically the Unclaimed/Abandoned vehicle portal, is crucial for compliance. Following these procedures ensures legal compliance and facilitates the proper handling of unclaimed and abandoned vehicles in Alabama. For further assistance, contact ALDOR’s Motor Vehicle Division or visit their Help Center.
