Maine Bill of Sale Form – Download Free Template
A Maine bill of sale is an important document to obtain when you sell or purchase a vehicle or vessel in Maine. Maine mandates that the bill of sale must be obtained if you purchase a vehicle from a private seller.
What is a Maine Bill of Sale?
A Maine bill of sale is a legal document used to record the sale of a vehicle, vessel, or trailer. It serves as proof that both the buyer and seller agreed on the terms of the sale, including the price and date of transfer. This document helps make the transaction official and provides a clear record for both parties.
It must include details such as the purchase price, date of sale, and the signatures of both the buyer and seller. For vehicles, it should also include the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and other identifying information.
The bill of sale serves several important purposes:
- It protects buyers from hidden problems or disputes after the sale.
- It helps sellers prove they are no longer responsible for the item sold.
- It provides important transaction details that may be needed for taxes or registration.
Why do you need a Bill of Sale in Maine?
After selling a vehicle, the seller must retain a copy of the bill of sale as proof of the transaction and as a written document that legitimizes the purchase. The bill of sale is a must-have document for the seller and buyer to have proof of the transaction.
For Seller
- Proof of Sale: The bill of sale clearly shows the exact date when ownership of the vehicle, boat, or trailer was transferred, protecting the seller from legal responsibility after the sale.
- Tax Documentation: Sellers need to report the sale price for tax purposes. Keeping a bill of sale helps ensure accurate income reporting and assists with any tax deductions.
- Release from Future Liability: Once the item is sold, the seller is no longer responsible for accidents, traffic violations, or damages caused by the new owner. The bill of sale officially confirms that ownership has changed hands.
For Buyers
- Proof of Ownership: When registering a vehicle, boat, or trailer in Kentucky, the buyer may need to show the bill of sale along with other documents to verify that they are the legal owner.
- Vehicle Registration Assistance: A bill of sale makes the registration process simpler by ensuring that the relevant authorities legally recognize and officially record the transaction.
- Confirms Agreed Terms: It documents the vehicle’s condition and the agreed-upon price, protecting the buyer from fraud or later disputes over the item’s value or quality.
Types of Maine Bill of Sale
In Maine, the most common types of bills of sale include forms for motor vehicles, personal property, and livestock. Each type serves a different purpose and helps document ownership transfers clearly. A vehicle bill of sale is required for registration, while other forms can be used for selling different kinds of personal goods.
- Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale: Required for registering a vehicle in Maine. It must include the make, model, year, VIN, odometer reading, purchase price, and the names and signatures of both parties.
- Personal Property Bill of Sale: Used for selling various items such as furniture, electronics, or tools. It should describe the item and include the agreed price and date of sale.
- Livestock Bill of Sale: Specifically used for transferring ownership of animals like cattle or horses, ensuring a clear record of the sale for both the buyer and seller.
What Should Be Written on the Bill of Sale?
When you want to write down the bill of sale manually, here’s the information you need to disclose on the bill of sale.
Buyer and Seller Information
The name and address of the seller and buyer need to be written on the bill of sale to mark which transaction the bill of sale belongs to, and to avoid if there’s any dispute involving one of the parties, the other party can be contacted to clarify.
Vehicle Description
This section highlights the vehicle description, such as the VIN, year, make, and model, and the odometer readings when the vehicle was sold to the buyer.
Purchase Date and Price
The transaction date and the agreed price should be included on the bill of sale.
The document must also add both parties’ signatures. While notarization is not always required, adding an extra layer of legal security is recommended by notarizing the bill of sale.
How to Register a Vehicle in Maine
Once the bill of sale is completed, the next step for the buyer is vehicle registration with the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). The process varies depending on whether the vehicle is new or used, but in general, the buyer will need to submit the following:
Secure the Bill of Sale
A bill of sale serves as proof of purchase and must include the names of the buyer and seller, vehicle details (make, model, year, VIN), and the sale price.
Secure the Vehicle Title
If the vehicle requires a title, the seller must sign it over to the buyer. Some vehicles, especially older models, may be exempt from titling requirements.
Provide Proof of Insurance
Maine law requires vehicle owners to carry valid auto insurance before registration. Buyers must present an insurance ID card or policy document when registering their vehicle.
Submit the Necessary Documents
Visit a local BMV office with the bill of sale, title (if applicable), and proof of insurance. Some municipalities may also handle registrations for residents.
Pay Registration Fees and Taxes
Registration fees vary depending on the vehicle’s type, weight, and usage. Additional taxes may apply, so checking the latest fee structure before registering is best.
Complete a Vehicle Inspection (If Required)
Certain vehicles must pass a safety or emissions inspection before registration is finalized. Inspections are typically conducted at licensed Maine inspection stations.
Maine VIN Check – Verify Vehicle History Before You Buy
Plan to buy a used vehicle? Be sure to check the VIN and get the report before you decide to purchase the vehicle. Check the specifications and the past records, like auction, recalls, past usage, and more.
Mileage History
Title Brand
Ownership History
Warranty Status
Sales History
Salvage Title
Usage History
Repair Cost
Auction History
Hail Damage
Ownership Duration
Recalls History
Accident History
Flood Damage
Lien & Loans
Maintenance Schedule
Get a Vehicle Bill of Sale by State
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Each state has its own requirements for an auto bill of sale. Click below to find the template for your state!
Frequently Asked Questions About the Maine Bill of Sale
How do I notarize a handwritten bill of sale?
Regardless of the document’s format, a Notary has the option to handwrite the notarial certificate.
Is a bill of sale required in Maine?
Yes, Maine requires a bill of sale for high-value items, including vehicles. This legal form records the transfer of ownership between buyers and sellers.
Can you file for a lost title if you only have the bill of sale?
Yes, in Maine, you can apply for a duplicate title if the original is lost, stolen, mutilated, or destroyed, even if you only have a bill of sale as proof of ownership.
Does the Maine bill of sale need to be notarized?
A regular Maine bill of sale usually doesn’t need to be notarized, but it’s a good idea to do so for valuable items such as cars or boats to make the transaction more secure.
Can a bill of sale be handwritten in Maine?
Yes, a bill of sale in Maine can be handwritten as long as it includes all the required details. It must clearly state information such as the buyer’s and seller’s names, a description of the item, the sale price, and the date of the transaction. As with any legal document, accuracy and completeness are important to ensure it’s valid under state law.
