A lienholder is a lender that legally has an interest in your property until you pay it off in full. The lender — which can be a bank, financial institution or private party — holds a lien, or legal claim, on the property because they lent you the money to purchase it.

Is the lienholder the owner?

If a vehicle is part of a financing agreement, the legal owner will be the individual or entity that provides the financing, and is referred to as the lienholder. The registered owner is responsible for maintaining compliance with DMV laws and regulations.

What does it mean if title has lien?

The car you purchase has a lien on the title until you completely pay off the car. Not only does a lien act as insurance for a lender, but a lien also allows a creditor to repossess your car if you default on your loan. A lien is a right against property or a legal claim, according to The Balance.