Required Documentation for Vehicle Transfer

To transfer vehicle ownership after a death in Manitoba, you'll need to gather several important documents:

• A copy of the death certificate
• The original will or Letters of Administration (if applicable)
• The vehicle's Transfer of Ownership Document (TOD)
• Valid identification for the executor or next of kin

These documents prove the death of the original owner, establish who has the legal right to transfer the vehicle, and provide the necessary information for MPI to process the transfer.

Step-by-Step Guide to Transferring Vehicle Ownership

Step 1: Notify Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) of the Owner's Death

Your first task is to inform MPI about the vehicle owner's passing. Visit an Autopac agent, who acts as a liaison between you and MPI. Important note: While the vehicle registration remains valid until it expires or is cancelled, you must notify MPI through your Autopac agent about the owner's death.

Step 2: Gather Required Documentation

The documents you need will depend on your specific situation. In all cases, you'll need:

• Transfer of Ownership Document (TOD)
• Death certificate
• Additional supporting documents based on your situation (detailed below)

Specific Situations and Required Documents

Situation 1: Will Exists But Not Probated

You'll need:

• Completed Statutory Declaration & Indemnification Agreement (signed by executor)
• Copy of the will certified as true by the executor
• Death certificate
• Transfer of Ownership Document (TOD)

Situation 2: No Will and No Letters of Administration

Required documents:

• Completed Statutory Declaration & Indemnification Agreement
• Death certificate
• Documentation showing right to dispose of assets (if available)
• Transfer of Ownership Document (TOD)

Situation 3: Probated Will

You must provide:

• Copy of the will naming the vehicle's beneficiary
• Certified copy of Letters Probate
• Death certificate
• Transfer of Ownership Document (TOD)

Situation 4: No Will but Letters of Administration Obtained

Required documents:

• Certified Copy of Letters of Administration from Surrogate Court
• Death certificate
• Transfer of Ownership Document (TOD)

Situation 5: Joint Ownership

For jointly owned vehicles:

• Proof of joint ownership (TOD or other acceptable documents)
• Death certificate Note: Jointly owned vehicles automatically pass to the surviving owner(s) and don't become part of the deceased's estate.

Final Steps

Step 3: Complete the Transfer of Ownership Document

• The executor, administrator, or estate disposer must complete the TOD
• Ensure accuracy in all fields
• Obtain all required signatures
• Note: If selling to a third party, a bill of sale signed by the estate executor is also required

Step 4: Submit Documents to Autopac Agent

• Present all gathered documents to your Autopac agent
• They will review and process the transfer
• Be prepared to pay any applicable fees or taxes

Step 5: Register Under New Owner's Name

• New owner must provide valid identification
• Updated registration documents will be issued
• New license plates may be required

Important Notes

• The Statutory Declaration & Indemnification Agreement must be completed by the executor, administrator, or disposer only
• Making false statements under oath in this document is subject to Criminal Code of Canada penalties
• Keep copies of all submitted documents for your records

Need Help with Estate Vehicle Transfers?

We understand that handling vehicle transfers after a loss can be overwhelming. Our step-by-step guidance will help you navigate the process with Manitoba Public Insurance, whether you have a will or not.

Book a free consultation today