Florida HSMV Form 87008 – Repossessed Vessel Affidavit

Florida HSMV Form 87008 – Repossessed Vessel Affidavit – If you are a lender, lienholder, or authorized representative handling a repossessed boat or vessel in Florida due to contract default, Florida HSMV Form 87008 is a critical document. This official affidavit from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) allows the transfer or sale of title and registration for a repossessed vessel. Understanding and properly completing this form helps ensure a smooth title process at your local tax collector’s office.

This comprehensive guide covers everything U.S. residents and Florida vessel owners need to know about HSMV Form 87008, including when to use it, required supporting documents, step-by-step instructions, and where to submit it. All information is based on official FLHSMV resources and Florida Statutes.

What Is Florida HSMV Form 87008?

HSMV Form 87008 is the official Affidavit for Transfer/Sale on a Repossessed Vessel in Default of Contract. Issued by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, Division of Motorist Services, this form certifies that a vessel has been lawfully repossessed because the titled owner(s) defaulted on a contract.

By signing the affidavit under penalties of perjury, the authorized representative declares that:

  • The vessel was lawfully repossessed due to contract default.
  • The vessel is currently in the physical possession of the repossessor.
  • There are no other known liens against the vessel.
  • The repossessor agrees to defend the title against any additional claims of ownership or indebtedness.

The form is specifically designed for vessels (boats) and is distinct from similar repossession forms used for motor vehicles or mobile homes. The current version is HSMV 87008 (Rev. 07/11).

Download the official form here: Florida HSMV Form 87008 PDF

When Do You Need HSMV Form 87008?

You need this form when transferring or selling a vessel that has been repossessed in Florida following a default on a security agreement, loan contract, or similar instrument. Common scenarios include:

  • A bank, credit union, or finance company repossesses a boat after missed payments.
  • The lienholder wants to title the vessel in its own name or transfer it directly to a new buyer.
  • The repossessed vessel is being sold at auction or through a private sale, and a new Florida title is required.

Florida law (primarily Section 328.01, Florida Statutes) allows ownership transfer of a vessel by operation of law in cases of repossession for non-fulfillment of contract. The affidavit serves as satisfactory proof of the right to possession and ownership when properly completed and supported by required documentation.

Required Documents to Submit with Form 87008

Simply completing the affidavit is not enough. According to official FLHSMV instructions and procedure TL-23 (Application for Certificate of Title Following Replevin and Repossession), you must submit the following to your local county tax collector’s office or license plate agency:

  • Completed and signed HSMV Form 87008.
  • The current original Florida Certificate of Title for the vessel (unless the title is electronic).
  • Form HSMV 82040 VS – Application for Certificate of Vessel Title (required for all vessel titles as of July 1, 2023).
  • A copy of the applicable contract (security agreement or similar instrument) upon which the claim of possession and ownership is based, or a copy of the court order or judgment.
  • Proof of Florida sales tax payment or applicable exemption information (reported on the title application).
  • Title fees and any applicable registration fees.
  • If subsequent liens exist, proper notice to subsequent lienholders (typically via certified mail using procedures similar to HSMV 82048) and proof of mailing, unless liens are satisfied.

A copy of the front and back of the lien instrument is generally required for vessels, showing the lienholder, secured party names, full vessel description (including year, make, and Hull Identification Number), and the date the instrument was executed.

How to Complete Florida HSMV Form 87008?

The form is straightforward but must be filled out accurately. Key sections include:

  • Date of Application – Enter the current date.
  • Certification Statement – Identify the current titled owner(s) of the vessel and affirm that it was lawfully repossessed due to contract default, is in your possession, has no other known liens, and that you will defend the title.
  • Vessel Information – Provide:
    • Vessel Registration Number
    • Hull Identification Number (HIN)
    • Vessel Title Number
    • Date of Repossession
  • Authorizing Party – Name, title, and full address of the individual or firm that authorized the repossession.
  • Signature of Authorized Representative – Sign under penalties of perjury.
  • Optional Sale Section – If transferring title and registration to a new purchaser (someone other than the repossessor), complete the date of sale, sale amount, and purchaser’s full name and address.

False statements on the form can result in a third-degree felony under Section 328.05, Florida Statutes.

Where to Submit Form 87008?

Submit the completed affidavit and all supporting documents to your local county tax collector’s office or authorized license plate agency in Florida. Do not mail it directly to FLHSMV headquarters unless specifically instructed.

Find your nearest office using the official FLHSMV locator: www.flhsmv.gov/offices/

Processing times and exact fee amounts can vary by county, so contact the local office in advance for current requirements and payment methods.

Important Tips for a Successful Title Transfer

  • Ensure the vessel is physically in your possession before applying.
  • Verify that any subsequent lienholders have been properly notified (at least 5 days before application via certified mail) if required, and allow the statutory protest period to pass.
  • Use the correct vessel-specific title application (HSMV 82040 VS).
  • Keep copies of everything you submit.
  • If the original title is lost or the title is electronic, additional steps (such as an affidavit of lost title) may be needed.
  • Consult the full FLHSMV procedure manual (TL-23 / VSTL-23) for complex situations involving out-of-state titles or multiple liens.

Related Florida Vessel Forms and Resources

Depending on your situation, you may also need:

Frequently Asked Questions About HSMV Form 87008

Is Form 87008 required for every repossessed boat in Florida?
Yes, when applying for a new Florida title after repossession due to contract default and transferring or selling the vessel, this specific affidavit is required along with the other documents listed above.

Can the lienholder sell the vessel without first titling it in their name?
Yes. Florida procedures allow a lienholder to transfer the repossessed vessel directly to a new purchaser using Form 87008 without first taking title in the lienholder’s name.

Does the form need to be notarized?
The standard HSMV 87008 does not require notarization. It is signed under penalties of perjury.

Where can I get the most current version of the form?
Always download the official form directly from the FLHSMV website to ensure you have the latest version: https://www.flhsmv.gov/pdf/forms/87008.pdf

Conclusion

Florida HSMV Form 87008 is an essential tool for anyone dealing with the transfer or sale of a repossessed vessel after a contract default. By accurately completing the affidavit, gathering the required supporting documents (including the original title, HSMV 82040 VS, and the underlying contract or court order), and submitting everything to your local tax collector’s office, you can efficiently obtain a clear Florida title.

For the most accurate and up-to-date guidance, always refer to official sources from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and consult your local tax collector’s office. Proper documentation protects all parties and ensures compliance with Florida vessel titling laws.

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