Tx trailer registration problems

[Kellyfmtx]

I have a trailer for a boat that someone gave me. It was brand new...this person never used it, but sent it to me in the box. I had a friend put it together. The place where it came from did not sign the back of the title transferring it to this person, or me. The place where I live says this person who purchased it must pay taxes on it, then transfer it to me. Why if this was never used by anyone? Why cannot I pay taxes and just register it myself? Now I am told by the purchaser that I must go to their registration place, to sign the trailer over to me in person. I thought all that was needed was a signature. Then I take it and register it in my name. This is beyond ridiculous. The trailer came out of a box, and was never owned by anyone before. Does anyone know why they are making people jump through hoops to get this type of deal done?

 

[JB]

Re: Tx trailer registration problems

They are required to collect sales tax upon every transfer of ownership, Kelly. Your situation makes it complex, but they are just doing their job.

 

[Kellyfmtx]

Re: Tx trailer registration problems

Like I said I would gladly pay the taxes, and take ownership since it is brand new out of the box, but they won't let me do it...I would do it for both the person who bought it, and me. But they won't allow that either. I do not understand why the original person must be to get it registered, and then immediately sign it to me, and then I repay to do the exact same thing. Maybe that is the law, but it is a dumb one in my opinion. I can see if this person used it, but they never saw it out of the box, much less used it. Thanks for your comment though. I just thought this was way above and beyond.

 

[tmcalavy]

Re: Tx trailer registration problems

It is...and sadly, common in Texas. Wait a few months and buy it from a friend in a no-title state, then file for a homemade Texas trailer title with your county tax office. It takes time and patience...not much reason to it.

 

[Kellyfmtx]

Re: Tx trailer registration problems

I cannot wait a few months. I need to be painting the boat and that kind of stuff...to get it ready to fish at the end of winter here, and first of spring. The boat was no problem to register. The trailer has been a nightmare. I have been to the court house twice on this deal. I have been told to just register it as a home made trailer, but it is not. (not by the court house of course) I want to do the right thing...but this is just a major dang hassle in my opinion. Surely they don't have to make this so difficult.

 

[Shizzy]

Re: Tx trailer registration problems

common problem. the person who sold the trailer at the store should have pulled the paper work out and filled it out.

Im almost positive you are going to have to do as they say.

 

[dalotel]

Re: Tx trailer registration problems

Typical Texas design/plan for revenue. FL has no titles for trailers. PM sent to help.

 

[Kellyfmtx]

Re: Tx trailer registration problems

Alright guys, things are progressing. I got the registration done, but it was like jumping through hoops on fire. Ridiculous. Anyway, thanks for all the comments and help. Now I can take this to my friend's and start sanding it.

 

[KLINDWW]

Re: Tx trailer registration problems

I would have registered it as a homemade trailer and been done with it.