Simple Bill Of Sale: How To Draft It Right!
Use these sample bill of sales as templates for your formal bill of sale.
Last updated on August 27th, 2023
A bill of sale is an official form that is required if goods are sold that need to be registered or reported. It is usually used for the transfer of a car, and need not be created by a professional. It serves as a receipt for both buyer and seller and gives details about the car.
The seller can make a legitimate bill of sale that includes information about the transaction such as:
Before Starting
Before starting, the seller should research the rules in his or her state that pertain to bills of sale. This can be done at the Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) website. Requirements may vary greatly. Both the buyer and seller can fill out the form as proof of purchase and of payment.
The seller can make a legitimate bill of sale that includes information about the transaction such as:
- The vehicle identification number (VIN)
- A description of the vehicle, including make, model and year
- A warranty that has been agreed upon by the buyer and seller, if applicable
- The full name of the seller and buyer
Before Starting
Before starting, the seller should research the rules in his or her state that pertain to bills of sale. This can be done at the Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) website. Requirements may vary greatly. Both the buyer and seller can fill out the form as proof of purchase and of payment.
Once the requirements are known, the first step the seller must take is to gather the important documents, including a proof of purchase, up-to-date registration certificate, the VIN, mileage and make, model and year.
The VIN is usually located on the doorjamb or near the steering wheel or under the hood. If it is not in any of these places, it can be found in the car manual.
The buyer and seller must agree on a price for the car and how the payment will be made. The form can be used by both the buyer and seller as evidence for tax purposes of the price paid.
If there are any stipulations such as a warranty or rules for returning the car, they should be clearly stated. For example, the seller may give the buyer five or 10 days in which to decide not to buy the car.
The VIN is usually located on the doorjamb or near the steering wheel or under the hood. If it is not in any of these places, it can be found in the car manual.
The buyer and seller must agree on a price for the car and how the payment will be made. The form can be used by both the buyer and seller as evidence for tax purposes of the price paid.
If there are any stipulations such as a warranty or rules for returning the car, they should be clearly stated. For example, the seller may give the buyer five or 10 days in which to decide not to buy the car.
Insurance Company
The form can also be used to prove to an insurance company that the buyer owns the car or that the seller no longer owns the car. It should first state the name and address of the seller and declare that he or she is the lawful owner of the car and has the authority to sell it.
Next, it should state the make, model, description, VIN, registration number, mileage and other information. Once the car is identified, the seller should say he or she hereby sells, conveys and transfers the above-described car to the buyer’s name and address for the price on which they agreed. After this, the stipulations can be mentioned.
If there are no stipulations such as a guarantee or warranty, this can also be mentioned. However, this type of form is best used for the sale of things As Is and expressly disclaim any warranties that may relate to the fitness or condition of the car.
It means the buyer is purchasing the car with any faults or problems, whether they are apparent or not. The As Is phrase protects the seller from having to refund the purchase price to the buyer after the form has been signed and the agreed-upon price paid.
Statement of Oath
The seller also needs to add a statement of oath in which he or she swears and affirms under penalty of perjury that all of the information given on the form is correct to the best of his or her knowledge.
The seller should include any other statement that is required by the laws in his or her state. In most states, the seller and buyer must sign it. If the form needs to be witnessed by a Notary Public, space should be provided at the bottom of the page.
Bills of sale may also be used for other vehicles such as motorcycles, RVs, trucks as well as for:
Bills of sale are useful when:
If the seller or buyer wants to make payments over time, or there is a guarantee or warranty included with the item for sale, it is better to use a Sales Agreement. This allows for more details about the sale and allows for receiving payments over time.
Below are bill of sale samples. They should be typed on a computer with spaces left for the car information. The information can be handwritten by the seller.
The seller should have it checked by a third party to avoid spelling errors and to make sure the handwriting is legible. Both the buyer and seller should have copies of the form. The sale is not complete until the title of the car is transferred. Until this time, the seller is liable for any fines associated with the car.
The form can also be used to prove to an insurance company that the buyer owns the car or that the seller no longer owns the car. It should first state the name and address of the seller and declare that he or she is the lawful owner of the car and has the authority to sell it.
Next, it should state the make, model, description, VIN, registration number, mileage and other information. Once the car is identified, the seller should say he or she hereby sells, conveys and transfers the above-described car to the buyer’s name and address for the price on which they agreed. After this, the stipulations can be mentioned.
If there are no stipulations such as a guarantee or warranty, this can also be mentioned. However, this type of form is best used for the sale of things As Is and expressly disclaim any warranties that may relate to the fitness or condition of the car.
It means the buyer is purchasing the car with any faults or problems, whether they are apparent or not. The As Is phrase protects the seller from having to refund the purchase price to the buyer after the form has been signed and the agreed-upon price paid.
Statement of Oath
The seller also needs to add a statement of oath in which he or she swears and affirms under penalty of perjury that all of the information given on the form is correct to the best of his or her knowledge.
The seller should include any other statement that is required by the laws in his or her state. In most states, the seller and buyer must sign it. If the form needs to be witnessed by a Notary Public, space should be provided at the bottom of the page.
Bills of sale may also be used for other vehicles such as motorcycles, RVs, trucks as well as for:
- Tools, appliances and exercise equipment
- Aircraft
- Furniture
- Animals such as horses, dogs and cats
- Boats and other watercraft
- Bicycles, clothing and jewelry
Bills of sale are useful when:
- Purchases are made through websites that buy, sell and trade products
- Purchasing a used item
- Purchasing an item through a private sale
- Purchasing a high-value item such as jewelry, car or boat
If the seller or buyer wants to make payments over time, or there is a guarantee or warranty included with the item for sale, it is better to use a Sales Agreement. This allows for more details about the sale and allows for receiving payments over time.
Below are bill of sale samples. They should be typed on a computer with spaces left for the car information. The information can be handwritten by the seller.
The seller should have it checked by a third party to avoid spelling errors and to make sure the handwriting is legible. Both the buyer and seller should have copies of the form. The sale is not complete until the title of the car is transferred. Until this time, the seller is liable for any fines associated with the car.
Bill of Sale for Vehicle Template
Note: It's important to realize that the bill of sale is separate and distinct from the transfer of title. Most states do not recognize that a car has actually changed owners until the transfer of title is filed with the Department of Motor Vehicles or a similar state agency.
If the title is not transferred, then the vehicle's seller may still be liable even if they haven't owned the car in months. Just as importantly, the transfer of title is the only document that actually proves vehicle ownership. Clearly, this is something that the buyer will want to deal with immediately.
BILL OF SALE
VEHICLE INFORMATION
Make:_____________ Model:______________ Year:_____________
VIN:________________________ Odometer reading: _______________ Color: _________
I, the undersigned seller, ____________________(name), sell to the undersigned buyer, ________________(name) the above-identified vehicle for the total sum of $ _________ (______________dollars and no cents). The buyer and seller agree that this is the total amount owed and that no further payment is required or The buyer agrees to pay the seller $______ on the date that this form is signed, with the balance owed of $______ to be paid at no greater than 60 days after this form is signed.
The seller affirms that the information concerning this vehicle is accurate to the best of his or her knowledge and belief.
The buyer accepts that the vehicle is sold "as is," with no warranties or guarantees concerning this vehicle. The buyer further accepts this document as a receipt for this transaction.
Seller's Name: __________________
Seller's Signature: ________________
Date: ______________
Seller's Address: _______________________ Apt. No.: ______
City: __________________ State: ____ Zip: ______
Phone No.: ___________________
Buyer's Name: __________________
Buyer's Signature: ________________
Date: ______________
Buyer's Address: _______________________ Apt. No.: ______
City: __________________ State: ____ Zip: ______
Phone No.: ___________________
Bill of Sale for Vehicle Template
Note: It's important to realize that the bill of sale is separate and distinct from the transfer of title. Most states do not recognize that a car has actually changed owners until the transfer of title is filed with the Department of Motor Vehicles or a similar state agency.
If the title is not transferred, then the vehicle's seller may still be liable even if they haven't owned the car in months. Just as importantly, the transfer of title is the only document that actually proves vehicle ownership. Clearly, this is something that the buyer will want to deal with immediately.
BILL OF SALE
VEHICLE INFORMATION
Make:_____________ Model:______________ Year:_____________
VIN:________________________ Odometer reading: _______________ Color: _________
I, the undersigned seller, ____________________(name), sell to the undersigned buyer, ________________(name) the above-identified vehicle for the total sum of $ _________ (______________dollars and no cents). The buyer and seller agree that this is the total amount owed and that no further payment is required or The buyer agrees to pay the seller $______ on the date that this form is signed, with the balance owed of $______ to be paid at no greater than 60 days after this form is signed.
The seller affirms that the information concerning this vehicle is accurate to the best of his or her knowledge and belief.
The buyer accepts that the vehicle is sold "as is," with no warranties or guarantees concerning this vehicle. The buyer further accepts this document as a receipt for this transaction.
Seller's Name: __________________
Seller's Signature: ________________
Date: ______________
Seller's Address: _______________________ Apt. No.: ______
City: __________________ State: ____ Zip: ______
Phone No.: ___________________
Buyer's Name: __________________
Buyer's Signature: ________________
Date: ______________
Buyer's Address: _______________________ Apt. No.: ______
City: __________________ State: ____ Zip: ______
Phone No.: ___________________
Bill of Sale for Car Sample
Note: Various bills of sale can look quite different when compared to each other. Nonetheless, there are certain items of information that will be found on every form.
This information includes vital facts about the car such as the make, model, year, color and vehicle identification number. It's also wise to record the odometer reading and perhaps also the license plate number.
BILL OF SALE
I, [Jonas Smith], the seller, in the [County of Franklin], in the [State of Ohio], in consideration of (two thousand twenty four) dollars, $2,024, to be paid by Karen Coleman, the buyer, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, do hereby sell and deliver unto Karen Coleman, buyer the following:
A [2002 Blue Chevy Monte Carlo Limited Edition] whose V.I.N number is [2G4T890GPC1234TU], mileage is [109,458 (one hundred and nine thousand, four hundred fifty eight)].
The car is in fair condition and has a salvage title after being in a flood. The car is red in color and has a dent on the driver’s right hand door. Car is in running condition at the time of sale.
I, [Jonas Smith] (Seller) hereby decree that I am the legal owner of the said vehicle and that it is owned free for all encumbrances. I have a right to sell the aforesaid vehicle and I will defend the same against any claims made lawfully by any persons. In witness this eighth day of [DATE].
X_____________________
[Jonas Smith]
[9809 Beaver Trail]
[Columbus, Ohio 43123]
[Seller]
X_________________________
[Karen Coleman]
[12567 St. Rt. 256]
[Reynoldsburg, Ohio 43068]
[Buyer]
Bill of Sale for Motorcycle Sample
Note: The form should include a space for the amount of the sale, including whether or not the debt has been fully paid. Frequently, it makes sense to record the sale price in numerals as well as in words to ensure that there are no misunderstandings.
If the buyer still owes money on the car, then the form may stipulate how and when any upcoming payments will be made. It's also essential for both parties to the transaction to sign and date the document.
The seller will also want to include any details regarding warranties or guarantees. Most private parties who are selling a used car do not offer any kind of warranty, and in these cases it is wise to state that the vehicle is sold "as is," so that the seller is protected from most claims
BILL OF SALE
VEHICLE INFORMATION
Make:_____________ Model:______________ Year:_____________
VIN:________________________ Odometer reading: _______________ Color: _________
I, NAME AND ADDRESS OF SELLER, hereby certify that I am the lawful owner of the below mentioned vehicle, and I have the authority to sell it.
I have received AMOUNT, in the form of a personal check from BUYER’S NAME AND ADDRESS as full payment for the vehicle AS IS.
I hereby transfer full ownership of this vehicle to the buyer on DATE, and declare that it is free from any encumbrances, fees, taxes or liens.
The buyer accepts full liability for the vehicle including damages, and any other liability that occurs after the date of sale as stipulated above.
The seller made the vehicle available to the buyer on the above date of sale.
Seller’s Signature and DATE
Buyer’s Signature and DATE
By Andre Bradley
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is a Simple Bill Of Sale?
Answer: A Simple Bill Of Sale is a legal document that serves as evidence of the transfer of ownership of an item or property from one party to another. It outlines the essential details of the transaction, such as the names of the buyer and seller, a description of the item being sold, the purchase price, and the date of the sale. This document is often used for transactions involving personal items like vehicles, electronics, furniture, and other valuable goods.
Q: Why is a Simple Bill Of Sale important?
Answer: A Simple Bill Of Sale is important because it provides a clear record of the transaction and helps protect the interests of both the buyer and the seller. It establishes a legal proof of ownership transfer, which can be crucial in case of any disputes or claims that may arise after the sale. Having a properly executed bill of sale can also be useful for tax purposes, warranty claims, and to establish the purchase price of the item.
Q: What information should be included in a Simple Bill Of Sale?
Answer: A Simple Bill Of Sale should include the following information:
- Names and contact information of the buyer and seller.
- Description of the item being sold, including any identifying details.
- Purchase price or exchange of value.
- Date of the transaction.
- Any warranties or guarantees provided by the seller.
- Signatures of both the buyer and seller, along with their dates.
It's important to note that the specific requirements for a bill of sale may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the type of item being sold.
Q: Is a Simple Bill Of Sale legally binding?
Answer: Yes, a properly executed Simple Bill Of Sale is legally binding as long as it meets the legal requirements of the jurisdiction where the transaction takes place. To ensure its legal validity, both parties involved should sign the document, and it's recommended to have witnesses or a notary public present, depending on local laws. The bill of sale acts as evidence of the agreement between the buyer and seller and can be used in court if disputes arise.
Q: Can a Simple Bill Of Sale be used for selling various items?
Answer: Yes, a Simple Bill Of Sale can be used for selling a wide range of items, including personal property such as vehicles, electronics, furniture, equipment, and more. It's a versatile document that helps document the transfer of ownership and the terms of the sale for various types of transactions. However, it's important to ensure that the bill of sale includes accurate and detailed information specific to the item being sold to avoid any confusion or disputes.
Q: Do I need an attorney to create a Simple Bill Of Sale?
Answer: While you generally don't need an attorney to create a Simple Bill Of Sale, it can be a good idea to consult with a legal professional, especially for complex transactions or if you're unsure about the legal requirements in your jurisdiction. There are many templates available online that you can use as a starting point, but it's important to customize the bill of sale to accurately reflect the details of your transaction and comply with local laws.