Contract templates · Property, Events & Personal
Buying a used car, equipment or a boat privately leaves the buyer needing proof of ownership. A bill of sale is that proof.
A bill of sale records the transfer of ownership of personal property from a seller to a buyer, with a description of the item, price and payment, the transfer of ownership, whether the item is sold as-is, the seller's title warranty and signatures.
When you need one
- Selling a car, boat, bike, equipment or other goods privately
- Proving ownership after a purchase
Key clauses in a Bill of Sale
These are the clauses the template includes, and what each one does for you.
Description of the item
Identifies the item, with serial numbers or VIN where relevant.
Purchase price and payment
Records the price and how it was paid.
Transfer of ownership
Confirms ownership passes to the buyer.
As-is condition or warranties
States whether the item is sold as-is or with warranties.
Seller's title warranty
Has the seller confirm they own the item free of claims.
Signatures and date
Records signatures and the date of sale.
Common mistakes to avoid
- No VIN or serial number, so the item cannot be identified.
- Selling an item that still has finance owing on it.
- Not checking whether the state or country also requires a registration transfer.
How to use the template
Download the Word file
Buy the Bill of Sale template on My Contract Lawyer and download the editable .docx straight after checkout.
Fill in the brackets
Add names, dates, fees, scope and governing law, and delete optional clauses that do not apply to your deal.
Check it against local law
Rules differ between US states, the UK and EU countries, especially for employment, consumer and property contracts. Have a lawyer review high-value or unusual deals.
Sign and keep a copy
Sign on paper or with any e-signature tool, and store the final version where both sides can find it.
Get the Bill of Sale template
Lawyer-drafted and ready to edit in Word, Google Docs or Pages. One-time payment of $19, no subscription, instant download from My Contract Lawyer.
Frequently asked questions
Is a bill of sale needed for a car?
Many US states require one for vehicle title transfer, and it is good evidence elsewhere.
Does it need to be notarised?
Some states require notarisation for vehicles or boats.
What does 'as-is' mean?
The buyer accepts the item in its current condition without warranties of quality.
Related contract templates
Templates are a starting point, not legal advice, and using one does not create a lawyer-client relationship. Contract law differs between countries and states, so check the finished document against local law.