When you’re behind on your car payments, it’s important to know your options. If you can’t make a payment, your car may be repoed. But what does that mean? And what are your other options? Here are 10 things you need to know about repo towing services in Chicago.
1. What’s the most common way to get your car repossessed?
If you fall behind on your payments, most banks will send a final warning before they start the repo towing service in Chicago. If you make no effort to bring your account current or make alternate payment arrangements with the bank, they may go through with repossession. If that happens, they’ll send someone to your home or work to take back the car you already own.
2. Can a repo service do anything?
No, it’s not legal for repo towing services in Chicago — or any other state — to vandalize property while taking it back from you. They aren’t legally allowed to scratch paint or break windows either so if this happens, contact law enforcement immediately.
3. Can a repo service tow my car even if it’s paid off?
Yes. Banks can take back any property you own — including your car, home, motorcycle, or other vehicles — no matter how much you owe or whether it’s paid off. They’ll auction the property to recover what you owe on the loan plus repossession fees and mileage costs for towing and storage of the vehicle. And if there isn’t enough money in the sale to cover all that, they can sue you for what you still owe them.
4. What do I need to know about my state laws regarding repo services?
Your state may have additional rules that apply when banks repossess cars. For example, some states require companies conducting a repossession to notify law enforcement and tell you where they’re taking the vehicle at least 24 hours beforehand.
5. Can anyone repossess my property?
No, only a licensed and bonded repo towing service in Chicagorepoman can legally conduct a repo in Chicago. That means that any stranger who comes up to you claiming that he or she is with a repo service is almost certainly an imposter–and possibly dangerous, too! Repo services are required to carry official identification cards which will include their contact information plus information about their company. Don’t let anyone take your car without seeing the proper identification first!
6. What happens after I regain possession of my vehicle?
If you manage to get your car back from the repo agency, it’s important for you to get in touch with the bank immediately. They may have already started legal proceedings against you so if possible, you should start making regular payments on the account again right away.
7. Can I be arrested for having an unpaid loan?
No! However, if you’re caught driving an automobile that’s been repossessed without permission from the repo agency or lender then you can be charged with unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and possibly grand theft auto depending on how long you’ve had possession of it.
8. What do I need to know when choosing a repo service?
Repo towing services in Chicago usually make their money by charging fees for their work, which means they have a financial incentive to get your car back. Some of them charge low flat rates while others will list their fees as a percentage of what they’re able to recover from your loan, which can actually end up costing you more in the long run. Ask the repoman about his or her fee structure before you give him or her access to your vehicle.
9. What else do I need to know?
If there are problems with the paperwork on your car, don’t let it be taken by an imposter! If someone shows up at your door claiming that he or she is with a repo service and you see any discrepancies in paperwork (for example, if something looks like it’s been altered), tell him or her to come back later. Make sure to check the car’s title, registration, and license plate before letting anyone begin a repossession.
10. What do I need to know about “cash for keys” settlements?
If you’re having trouble making payments on your loan, one option available to you is a cash-for-keys agreement. This is when the repo towing services in Chicago give you money in exchange for giving up possession of your car and settling the debt with the bank. Make sure to get the agreement in writing; don’t make any verbal deals with anyone. You may also want to check with your bank or loan servicer before accepting this option since they might offer better terms than the repossession company.
Conclusion
Choosing the right repo towing services in Chicago can be confusing and overwhelming. By asking the right questions and knowing what to look for, you can make an informed decision that will best suit your needs. We hope this article has been helpful and provided you with the information you need to feel confident in your choice of repo service.