What Is a Bill of Sale?
A BILL OF SALE IS:
A general form that documents the transfer of a used or
high-valued item from a seller to a buyer
A sales receipt for the purchase of vehicles, animals, and personal property such as bikes and firearms
Proof that a private sale occurred between friends, family, or acquaintances, or through a buy, sell, and trade website.
What Information Is Required in a
Bill of Sale?
INFORMATION REQUIRED IN A BILL OF SALE INCLUDES:
Date of purchase
Location of property
Contact details for both the buyer and seller
Description and condition of the item
Sale price and form of payment
Liens or loans on the property
What Items Should Be Sold With a
Bill of Sale?
A BILL OF SALE IS MOST COMMONLY USED FOR THE PRIVATE SALE OF:
Vehicles: cars, motorcycles, and RVs
Animals: cats, dogs, horses, and other livestock
Firearms
A BILL OF SALE CAN ALSO BE USED FOR THE FOLLOWING
EXCHANGE OF GOODS:
Boats or other watercrafts
Airplanes or other aircrafts
Electronics: cell phones, computers, and gaming consoles
Personal property: bicycles, musical instruments, and jewelry
Appliances, tools, furniture, and exercise equipment
Why Do I Need a Bill of Sale?
Creating a Bill of Sale benefits both the buyer and seller.
FOR THE SELLER, A BILL OF SALE:
Demonstrates proof that an exchange of goods took place
Protects them from any liability related to the quality or lifespan
of the item if sold "as-is without any warranties"
FOR THE BUYER, A BILL OF SALE:
Demonstrates proof of payment for the item
Transfers legal ownership of the item to the buyer
May be required for registration or insurance of the purchased item under the buyer's name
When Do I Use a Bill of Sale?
USE A BILL OF SALE WHEN:
Payment will be made in full at the time of exchange
You are selling personal property in "as-is" condition. An "as-is" sale protects the seller from any liability related to defects or deficiencies in the product after the exchange.
bill of sale template of the United States
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