If my car is repossessed, do I have to pay off the entire loan balance to get it back?

Whether you have to pay the entire balance of your car loan to get your car back after repossession depends on where you live and the terms of your car loan agreement.

Redeeming the Car

In most states, you have to pay off the entire loan to get your car back after repossession, called "redeeming" the car. The balance you would need to pay to redeem the vehicle might include extra fees and charges, including repossession and storage fees, and even attorneys' fees.

You might also have a right to reinstate the car loan. To reinstate the car loan, you bring the loan current by making up all of the past due payments, including applicable fees and late charges, in one lump sum. Reinstatement could be an option for you if you can't pay the car loan off in full. You can reinstate the car loan only if your state's law allows it or if your loan agreement specifically states that you have this right.

Working Out Something With the Bank

If neither reinstatement nor redemption is an option for you, there's no harm in approaching the bank to negotiate a different resolution, such as a partial reinstatement and a new payment plan. The bank might even refinance the car loan if that's viable for you.

Bankruptcy to Get the Car Back

If the creditor isn't willing to work with you, then bankruptcy might be an option, depending on your financial circumstances. You might be able to get the car back if you file Chapter 7 bankruptcy or Chapter 13 bankruptcy. To learn more, see My Car Was Repossessed, Can Chapter 7 Help? and Can I Get My Car Back If It Was Repossessed Right Before Chapter 13?

However, filing for bankruptcy just to get a car back is rarely a good financial decision.

Getting Help

For more information about car repossession laws in your state, consult with a local debt relief attorney. If you want to learn more about filing for bankruptcy, talk to a bankruptcy lawyer.