Bill of Sale Form Templates
A Bill of Sale is a written agreement that confirms the transfer of ownership of an item from one party to another, while serving as proof of the transaction to protect the rights of the parties involved. It outlines information such as what was sold, the agreed payment amount, and more.
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What Is a Bill of Sale Form?
A Bill of Sale is a record of the transfer of ownership for certain types of property or goods. It serves as written proof that an item has been sold and outlines the fundamental details of the exchange between the buyer and the seller.
Various kinds of Bill of Sale forms exist depending on the item being transferred, such as a car, boat, or firearm. Each version specifies the sale terms, including a description of the item, its condition at the time of sale, and the agreed-upon price.
Having this document benefits both parties, as it helps avoid misunderstandings and verifies that both parties willingly agreed to the transaction.
Bill of Sale Example
Before creating your own document, review how it’s structured and what information should be included to make it legally sound and complete in the following sample.
State-Specific Bill of Sale Forms
Bill of Sale Form Types
The information required on your Bill of Sale form can differ depending on the item being sold.
In many cases, certain information is needed to meet state regulations or to comply with the requirements of agencies like the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Here are Bill of Sale forms that meet the requirements for specific items:
- ATV
- Boat
- Car
- Firearm
- Horse
- Mobile-home
- Motorcycle
- Trailer
Other Bill of Sale Forms
Notarized Bill of Sale
A Bill of Sale form that has a notary public’s seal and signature is a Notarized Bill of Sale. This form officially verifies the identities of the parties involved. Taking this step adds an extra layer of authenticity and is commonly required for high-value transactions or when specified by state law.
Dog Bill of Sale
A Dog Bill of Sale is used when transferring ownership of a dog, often by breeders or private sellers.
It lists key details about the dog’s breed, color, age, and health, while including the price. It provides legal protection for both the seller and the buyer by confirming the terms of the exchange.
How To Write a Bill of Sale
Follow the steps below and use our Bill of Sale template to help make sure your document includes all necessary information.
1. Select the Right Type of Document
The structure of your bill of sale depends on what you’re selling. Always choose the correct form or adapt your document to match the item’s specific requirements.
2. Identify the Parties Involved
Include the full names and addresses of all individuals involved in the sale. If more than one buyer or seller is listed, make sure each party’s information is clearly stated to reflect joint ownership.
3. Give a Full Description of the Item
Provide a clear and accurate description of the property being sold. For example, if you are going to use a Car Bill of Sale, you should note the make, model, year, color, and mileage.
4. Add Transaction Details
State the purchase price and the payment method. Also, make sure to include whether the total amount will be paid in full or through installments. If applicable, mention any taxes or fees associated with the sale.
5. Include Warranties or Disclaimers
You may sell the item “as is,” meaning no warranties apply, or include a guarantee stating that the property is accurately described, in working condition, and free of claims or liens.
6. Explain the Transfer of Possession
Describe how and where the item will be handed over to the new owner. For example, a trailer might be collected from a storage lot, while certain animals sold may require specific transport arrangements.
7. Sign and Finalize the Document
Once both parties agree to the terms, you both must sign the document. Depending on state requirements, the Bill of Sale form may also need to be witnessed or notarized to become fully enforceable.
Once you have created your Bill of Sale, it’s recommended to have it reviewed by a legal expert before finalizing it.
Notarized Bill of Sale
Even when not required by law, having a notary public witness the signing can provide added assurance that both parties’ identities and signatures are legitimate. This extra step offers stronger legal protection and helps prevent potential disputes over the sale.
States that make notarizing a Bill of Sale mandatory for the document to be valid include:
- Louisiana
- Maryland
- Montana
- Nebraska
- New Hampshire
- West Virginia
- Wyoming
DMV Locations in the U.S.
To officially transfer ownership of a vehicle, you may need to visit your state’s DMV or an equivalent agency.
Here is a list of offices to help you check whether your specific state requires a bill of sale for title transfers.
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