Considering participating in a Car Buy Back Program? You’re in the right place. This guide answers the most frequently asked questions about these programs, helping you understand the process and determine if retiring your vehicle is the right choice for you.
General FAQs About Car Buy Back Programs
Let’s start with some common questions about applying for a vehicle retirement program.
Can I submit my application through the mail?
Yes, you can. While applying online is generally faster and more efficient, we understand that online applications aren’t always feasible for everyone. You can download a printable application form here (English version) or here (Spanish version). Alternatively, you can request a paper application to be mailed to you by calling us at (866) 272-9642.
Is it necessary to upload documents verifying my household income after applying?
Yes, submitting your income verification documents is crucial and can significantly speed up the processing of your application. To see a comprehensive list of acceptable documents, please visit our Income Eligibility Requirements page. Uploading these documents online through our document upload portal is the quickest way to get them to us.
How can I check the current status of my application?
Checking your application status is easy with our online status check tool. You’ll need your CAP ID number and your vehicle license plate number to access your application information. This tool provides real-time updates on where your application is in the review process.
Application Review and Processing FAQs
Now, let’s address some questions about what happens after you submit your application.
What’s the most frequent reason applications are marked as incomplete or deficient?
The most common missing element is income verification documentation. We cannot fully process your application and determine your eligibility until we have successfully verified your household income. Make sure to include these documents when you apply or upload them as soon as possible.
If my application needs more information or documents, how will I be informed?
If we require additional information or documentation to complete your application, we will send you a formal “notice of deficiency.” This notice will clearly outline exactly what information or documents you need to provide to make your application complete and allow us to continue processing it.
What are the typical reasons for application denials?
Applications are typically denied for a few key reasons:
- Vehicle Smog Check Issues: We meticulously review Smog Check records to confirm your vehicle’s inspection history. Issues in this history can lead to denial.
- Vehicle Registration History: Your vehicle must have been continuously registered as an operable vehicle in California for the full two years before you apply. We check DMV records to verify this registration history.
- Past Due Registration Fees: Current vehicle registration is essential. We will check DMV records to confirm your vehicle’s registration status. If your registration sticker was expired before you applied, you’ll need to contact the DMV to explore your registration options.
- Liens on Vehicle Title: To participate, you must be the sole legal owner of the vehicle. If there is a lienholder listed on your vehicle title, it must be removed. Contact the DMV for guidance on removing a lienholder from your title.
- Vehicle Ownership Change in Progress: The vehicle must not be undergoing an ownership change during the application process. We confirm this through DMV records.
- Applicant Not Registered Owner: The name on your application must precisely match the registered owner’s name on the vehicle’s title (pink slip) as verified by DMV records.
- Recent Vehicle Retirement Through the Program: To ensure program availability for everyone, there are limits on how frequently you can participate. We verify that you haven’t retired a vehicle as a sole owner, or two vehicles as a co-owner, within the 12 months prior to your current application date.
If my application is denied but I resolve the issue, do I need to re-apply completely?
No, you do not need to start a new application. Simply upload the documentation that proves you have resolved the reason for denial, or mail it to BAR, Attention: CAP, 10949 N. Mather Blvd, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670.
After uploading documents to resolve a denial, how long until BAR reviews them and re-evaluates my eligibility?
Our team reviews uploaded documentation within approximately four weeks of receiving it. Once the review is complete, we will send you an updated notice regarding our determination.
I applied expecting a $2,000 incentive, but my approval letter states $1,500. Why is there a difference?
Our car buy back program offers two different incentive amounts based on specific eligibility criteria and current regulations. Upon review of your application, it was determined that you qualify for the $1,500 incentive option, not the higher amount. Both options offer valuable incentives for retiring older vehicles.
Vehicle Retirement FAQs
Finally, let’s look at questions specifically about the vehicle retirement process itself.
Will the vehicle dismantler accept my car if it’s not currently drivable?
No, unfortunately, your vehicle must be in operational condition and meet all equipment and operational requirements to be accepted by the dismantler. This ensures the vehicle can be properly processed and recycled through the program.
When will I receive the incentive payment for retiring my vehicle?
You will receive your incentive payment directly from the dismantler. After they have verified your identification and confirmed that your vehicle passes the required equipment and operational inspections, they will issue you a check. The check will be made out to the registered owner(s) as listed on your official letter of eligibility.
Can the dismantler provide me with a ride home after I drop off my vehicle?
No, dismantlers participating in the program are not able to provide transportation for participants. You will need to arrange your own transportation home from the dismantler location after you drop off your vehicle.
Still have questions?
For further information or if you have additional questions not covered here, please call us directly at (866) 272-9642. Our phone lines are open Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding state holidays. We are here to help guide you through the car buy back program process.
