Legal Question in Consumer Law in Massachusetts

Ownership % on auto title

My sister wants to give me 1% ownership in her vehicle so that I can register it in Mass (my name has to be on the title). She lives in NH and cannot drive due to a stroke. The MA registry said they don't do that. We could change the name from just hers to both hers and mine. By default that would give me 50% ownership and possibly create problems with her disability benefits. Is there a document that could be drawn-up outside the registry domain that would specify that she is only giving me 1% ownership?


Asked on 12/12/07, 5:27 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Gregory Lee Gregory P. Lee, Attorney at Law

Re: Ownership % on auto title

You can write a document to supplement title. However, nothing guarantees that the agency determining financial eligibility will accept the document over the default.

Why would it not be easier for your sister to simply title the car entirely to you? Not owning an asset should --help-- her financial eligibility for benefits.

Without knowing your reasons, I suspect that this is a lot of trouble to go to. (especially as I have seen this question before). Be sure that the goal to be achieved is worth the efforts, and any possible consequences.

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Answered on 12/12/07, 5:38 pm
Christopher Vaughn-Martel Charles River Law Partners, LLC

Re: Ownership % on auto title

I agree with Attorney Lee, why not have her just gift/sell the automobile to you entirely?

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Answered on 12/12/07, 5:48 pm


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