Massachusetts Bill of Sale Form – Download Free Template

Buying or selling a vehicle or vessel in Massachusetts? A bill of sale is essential for documenting the transaction and protecting both parties. While not always required, it serves as proof of ownership transfer and helps prevent disputes.

What is a Massachusetts Bill of Sale?

A Massachusetts bill of sale is a legal document that shows proof of a transaction between a buyer and a seller. It records important details such as the date of sale, the price, and information about the item, like a vehicle’s make, model, and VIN. It also serves as evidence that both parties agreed to the terms of the sale.

This document helps both parties by keeping a clear record of the ownership transfer. It can also be used for tax and registration purposes, especially when buying or selling a used vehicle. Having one helps avoid confusion or disputes about ownership in the future.

Why Do You Need a Massachusetts Bill of Sale?

For safety and legal reasons, sellers and buyers should keep one of the bill of sale copies that can be used for several reasons, as explained below.

For Seller

Avoid Future Liability: A bill of sale proves you are no longer responsible for the vehicle. You won’t be held liable if the buyer gets into an accident or commits a crime.
Ensure Tax Accuracy: The document records the sale price, preventing tax issues related to underreporting or overpaying when filing with Massachusetts authorities.
Legal Protection in Disputes: A bill of sale protects sellers if a buyer later disputes the payment or ownership transfer. It serves as solid legal proof in case of conflicts.

For Buyers

Proof of Ownership Before Title Transfer: A bill of sale is temporary proof of purchase until the title is officially transferred to the buyer’s name.
Protection Against Fraud: It helps confirm important details like VIN, sale price, and seller information, ensuring the transaction is legitimate and transparent.
Required for Registration and Taxes: Certain vehicle registrations or tax filings in Massachusetts require a notarized bill of sale to complete the process. Having one prevents registration delays.

Types of Bill of Sale in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, there are several types of bills of sale depending on what’s being sold and how the ownership is transferred. The most common ones include the General Bill of Sale for everyday property, and specific forms for vehicles, boats, and animals. Each type serves as legal proof of a transaction and includes important details like the date, price, and signatures.

Common types of bills of sale in Massachusetts include:

General Bill of Sale: Used for most personal property, listing the sale date, amount, and both parties’ signatures.
Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale: For selling cars, motorcycles, or other vehicles, including VIN and odometer readings.
Boat Bill of Sale: Covers the transfer of ownership for boats and other watercraft.
Conditional Bill of Sale: Ownership depends on meeting certain conditions, such as completing payments.
Absolute Bill of Sale: Transfers ownership outright with no conditions.
Animal Bill of Sale: Used for the sale or transfer of animals.

What Should be Written on the Massachusetts Bill of Sale?

The Massachusetts bill of sale includes essential details like buyer and seller information, vehicle or vessel specifics, sale price, and signatures to document the transaction legally. Here’s what you can find in the document:

Buyer and Seller Information

First, write down the seller’s and buyer’s names, full addresses, and detailed contact information. Thus, the bill of sale must be signed by both parties.

Vehicle Description

The bill of sale also includes the full information about the vehicle, including the year, make, and model, odometer reading per purchase date, and VIN.

Purchase Price

The document should state the final sale price agreed upon by both parties to clarify the transaction’s financial terms.

Date of Sale

The exact date when the transaction occurs must be included to establish a legal timeline for the sale.

How to Register a Vehicle in Massachusetts

To drive a vehicle in Massachusetts, you must immediately register it with the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV). There is no grace period for new residents.

Required Documents

You must gather the following documents to complete the process:

Proof of Insurance: You must first obtain a valid MA insurance policy. Your insurance agent must complete and stamp the required Application for Registration and Title (Form RMV-1 or RTA-1).
Vehicle Title: The original certificate of title, or a Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MSO) if the vehicle is brand new.
Bill of Sale: While not always strictly required for all forms, it is essential proof of the purchase price, especially for tax purposes.
Valid ID: Your driver’s license or other government-issued identification.
Proof of Residency: Documentation establishing your Massachusetts address.
Lienholder Information: If the vehicle is financed, you must provide details for the loan/lien holder.

Important Steps and Fees

Get Insured and Stamped: Obtain MA auto insurance and have your insurance agent complete and stamp the RMV-1/RTA-1 form.
Visit the RMV: Bring all necessary documents to a local RMV service center. You may be required to schedule an appointment.
Pay Fees and Taxes: Be prepared to pay the applicable fees, including the $135 registration fee and the 6.25% sales tax on the vehicle’s purchase price (or its assessed value).
Receive Registration: The RMV will process your application and issue your license plates and registration certificate. Your new title will be mailed to your lienholder (if financed) or directly to you.
Get Inspection: Once registered, you must get your vehicle inspected at an official MA inspection station within 7 days to receive a passing sticker.

Massachusetts 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 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

Each state has its own requirements for an auto bill of sale. Click below to find the template for your state!

Massachusetts Bill of Sale FAQs

How to write a bill of sale in Massachusetts?

To get a bill of sale for your vehicle in Massachusetts, please download and use the template available on this page and fill out the necessary information.

Is a bill of sale valid without notarization?

Yes, the bill of sale is valid even without notarization. Though not required, notarizing your bill of sale is highly recommended. It makes the ownership transfer process easier and provides crucial protection against fraud for both parties.

Can a Massachusetts bill of sale be zero dollars?

Yes, a Massachusetts bill of sale can be for zero dollars, particularly when gifting a vehicle, but the recipient still needs to pay for registration and title fees.

Does a Massachusetts bill of sale need to be notarized?

No, the bill of sale in Massachusetts does not need to be notarized for most transactions, including the vehicle transaction. However, if you want to notarize the bill of sale, you can do it to add an extra protection just in case there’s a dispute in the future.