What to do when a VW Credit account holder dies

How long the process takes at VW Credit: Volkswagen Financial Services and Audi Financial Services state that a Transfer of Equity (financed vehicle) or Lease Assumption (leased vehicle) typically takes 4 to 6 weeks to complete, pending a credit check and applicable fees. No fixed timeline is published for purchasing or returning the vehicle; those are handled through the Message Center or by phone once the death is reported. The most common reason for delays is missing or incomplete documentation, so submitting everything upfront is the best way to keep things moving.

VW Credit requires Death certificate for the deceased borrower or lessee (standard estate-notification document; the servicer's FAQ does not itemize required documents), A completed Transfer of Equity or Lease Assumption application, if a qualified party wants to take over the account (subject to a credit check and applicable fees), Letters of Testamentary or a small estate affidavit, if the servicer requires proof of authority to settle the account, and The Volkswagen Financial Services / Audi Financial Services account number to process a death claim. Certified copies are typically needed—photocopies are generally not accepted for death certificates or court documents.

VW Credit's Volkswagen Financial Services / Audi Financial Services (Deceased Account Holder) can be reached by phone at 1-800-428-4034 for questions throughout the claims process.