Transferring a car title after the owner dies in Nebraska
For a spouse, child, heir or executor dealing with a car that was owned by someone who died in Nebraska.
To transfer a car title after the owner dies in Nebraska, check the title first. A transfer on death beneficiary or a surviving joint owner with survivorship rights can transfer the car with the death certificate. For a small estate with no probate, the successor files the Affidavit for Transfer of Decedent's Vehicle/Motorboat.
If the estate is going through probate, or family members disagree, talk to the probate court or a lawyer before you sign anything.
Last checked against official Nebraska sources.
Which route applies when a car owner dies in Nebraska?
A transfer on death beneficiary
If the title names a TOD beneficiary, the car goes to them at the death. They apply with the death certificate and an Application for Certificate of Title, or attach the death certificate and sign the title as TOD to sell it.
dmv.nebraska.gov checkedA surviving joint owner
If the names are joined by "or", or the title says With Rights Of Survivorship, the survivor can sign the title over to a buyer and give the County Treasurer a copy of the death certificate. If they are joined by "and" or "and/or", a county judge must decide in probate first.
dmv.nebraska.gov checkedA small estate, with no probate
If all personal property in the estate is worth no more than $100,000 after liens, 30 days have passed, and no personal representative is pending or appointed, the successor signs the affidavit in front of a notary and files it with the title and death certificate at the County Treasurer where they live. The title is issued to the successor, not a buyer.
Affidavit for Transfer of Decedent's Vehicle/Motorboatdmv.nebraska.gov checkedA court-appointed representative
When the title is in the deceased owner's name alone, the person the court appointed signs the title over to the buyer and attaches the letter of appointment.
dmv.nebraska.gov checkedCommon questions
What if the names are joined by "and"?
A county judge must decide in probate before the survivor can get a title.
dmv.nebraska.gov checked
Does the affidavit need a notary?
Yes. The successor's signature must be notarized.
dmv.nebraska.gov checked
Sources for this page
About this page
This page summarizes official Nebraska sources in plain English. Car Title Steps is not a government website, is not connected to the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles, and does not file or prepare forms. Confirm each step with the agency before you sign, pay or mail anything. Found a mistake? Email mr@marcelruettgers.com.