A bill of sale is a legal document that’s used to record the transfer of ownership of an item from one part to another.
If you’re selling your car to a private party or dealer, a bill of sale will need to be filled out. If you’re selling it to a dealership then they will likely handle filling out all of the information and have you sign.
If you’re selling your car via private party then there are some steps you will have to take.
Keep reading below to learn how to get a bill of sale for a car whether you need a template or a record of a previous sale.
Types of Bill of Sale for a Car
If you’re buying or selling a car it is very important to make sure you have a copy of the “bill of sale”. The bill of sale is a legal document outlining the transfer of ownership and can be used as evidence to show you own the car.
There are several different types of bills of sale for cars and each serves a different purpose.
Private-Party Bill of Sale
A private-party bill of sale is the most common type of bill of sale for a car. It is used when the car is being sold by a private individual to another private individual rather than a dealership.
This bill of sale includes the basic information about the car and details of the sale, such as the purchase price and payment terms.
Dealership Bill of Sale
A dealership bill of sale is used when the car is being sold by a dealership. This bill of sale will contain the basic information as outlined in a private bill of sale but will also include additional information to protect the dealership.
This bill of sale usually will contain information about warranties or guarantees the come with the car.
It’s very important that you retain a bill of sale if you’re buying a car from a BHPH or “guaranteed financing” dealer.
As-Is Bill of Sale
An as-is bill of sale is used when the seller is not offering any guarantees or warranties with the car. This type of bill of sale is when the car is being sold in its current condition and the seller is not responsible for any repairs or problems that may arise after the sale.
This is the most common bill of sale when you purchase a car from a used car dealer. If you want protections then you should purchase a car from a new car dealer or a certified pre-owned dealer.
Conditional Bill of Sale
A conditional bill of sale is used when the buyer is making payments on the car over time. This bill of sale will include all of the information outlined above but may disclose information such as how to handle late payments or fees with a missed payment.
It’s important when you’re selling or buying a car to choose the right bill of sale for your situation. Each of these types serve a different purpose and includes different information catering to their situation.
By using the right type of bill of sale you can ensure the transaction is legal and binding and that both the buyer and seller are protected.
Where to Find a Bill of Sale Template
There are a few options on where you can get a bill of sale but most will take you hunting down a template or visiting your local DMV.
The best places to find a bill of sale template are:
- Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV): The DMV in your area is usually the first spot most people go to get a bill of sale document that they can fill out. It is also one of the few ways you can guarantee you’re getting the correct document.
- Online: There are many websites that will offer a free or low-cost bill of sale template that you can use.
- Attorney: If you’re involved in a complex transaction, such as a high-value or antique car then it’s likely an attorney will find and fill out a bill of sale for you.
- Notary: A notary can sometimes provide a copy of a bill of sale if you’re using them to notarize the transaction. A notary will make the document legally binding.
- Dealership: If you’re buying or selling a car through a dealership, they should be providing you with a bill of sale in your paperwork as part of the transaction.