Illinois Bill of Sale Form – Download Free Template

Buying or selling a vehicle or vessel in Illinois? A bill of sale is a document that records the transaction details to ensure proof of ownership, proof of payment, and legal protection. Get the bill of sale template now to protect your purchase!

What is the Illinois Bill of Sale?

An Illinois bill of sale is a legal document that records the transfer of ownership between a buyer and a seller. It’s commonly used for vehicles, boats, trailers, and other personal property. This document includes important details such as the buyer’s and seller’s names, the sale price, the date, and a description of the item, for example, the VIN, make, and model for vehicles.

In Illinois, a bill of sale is often needed to register a vehicle or prove ownership in case of disputes. Even when it’s not required by law, having one provides clear evidence of the sale and protects both parties.

Why do You Need an Illinois Bill of Sale?

A bill of sale is an important document that should be secured for both parties, as it proves a solid transfer of ownership records to avoid any disputes in the future.

For Seller

Liability Protection: Once the item is sold, the seller is no longer responsible for any accidents or violations tied to it. The bill of sale is solid proof that the vehicle has been legally transferred.
Proof of Transaction: If the buyer delays registering the item, the seller still has the documented sale record. This is helpful for tax inquiries or title issues.
Odometer Disclosure Compliance: Illinois requires accurate mileage reporting. The bill of sale helps the seller disclose the correct odometer reading, which protects them from accusations of fraud.

For Buyers

Ownership Verification: If there are issues with the title transfer or other disagreements, the bill of sale serves as legal proof that the buyer purchased the vessel or vehicle legally.
Fraud Prevention: The document records the agreed price and the item’s condition at the time of purchase. If a dispute comes up later, the buyer has written proof of the original agreement.
Assists with Registration and Titling: While Illinois does not always demand a bill of sale for registration, some counties might ask for it for tax assessment. Having it ready ensures a smoother registration process.

Types of Bill of Sale in Illinois

Illinois offers different types of bills of sale depending on the item being sold. These documents help record important details of a transaction and protect both parties. For motor vehicles, a separate odometer disclosure statement is also required.

Boat Bill of Sale

Vehicle Bill of Sale: Used when selling or buying a car or any other motor vehicle.
Boat/Watercraft Bill of Sale: Needed for transferring ownership of boats and includes details such as the hull identification number and vessel information.
Firearm Bill of Sale: Records the transfer of ownership of a gun or firearm, providing legal proof of the sale.
Motorcycle Bill of Sale: Specifically used for selling or purchasing motorcycles.
Trailer Bill of Sale: Used to document the sale of trailers of any size or type.
Snowmobile Bill of Sale: Helps record the details of a snowmobile sale, including make, model, and serial number.

Illinois also recognizes general forms like absolute, conditional, and quitclaim bills of sale, which are often used for other personal property such as tools, equipment, or furniture.

What Does the Illinois Bill of Sale Contain?

The Illinois bill of sale shows a clear record of the sale, protecting both the buyer and the seller.

A typical Illinois bill of sale includes:

Buyer and Seller Information: Both parties' full names, addresses, and contact details.
Vehicle or Vessel Details: Make, model, year, VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) or HIN (Hull Identification Number) for boats, and any other identifying features.
Date of Sale: The exact date when ownership is transferred.
Sale Price: The agreed purchase amount, which may be needed for tax purposes.

Payment Terms: Whether the transaction is paid in full, financed, or involves a trade.
Odometer Reading: Required for vehicle sales to disclose the mileage at the time of sale.
Seller’s Disclosure: A statement confirming that the vehicle or vessel is sold "as-is" or noting any known defects.
Signatures: Both the buyer and seller must sign to make the document legally valid.

In some cases, a notary public may also be required to witness and authenticate the document, depending on local regulations.

How to Register a Vehicle in Illinois?

To register your vehicle in Illinois, you must gather all required documents and then complete the process either online, by mail, or in person at a Secretary of State (SOS) facility.

1. Gather Required Documents

Make sure you have all of the following items ready:

Vehicle Title: The assigned title from the seller (or the out-of-state title for new residents/purchases).
Proof of Illinois Insurance: Valid liability coverage that meets state minimums.
Application for Vehicle Transaction (VSD-190): This form can be completed online via the Electronic Registration and Title (ERT) system.
Valid ID and Proof of Residency: Your driver’s license and documentation (like utility bills or bank statements) proving your Illinois address.
Tax Forms: A completed tax form, such as Route 50 (for private in-state sales) or Route 25 (for out-of-state purchases).
Odometer Reading: Accurate reading for vehicles 2011 or newer.
Loan Information: Details for any lienholder on the vehicle.

2. Choose Your Registration Method

Online: Use the Electronic Registration and Title (ERT) system on the Illinois Secretary of State website to complete your application and print necessary documents.
In Person: Visit a local SOS facility. This is often required for new residents or when purchasing a used vehicle from a private seller.
By Mail: Mail the completed application and all required documents to the Illinois Secretary of State’s Vehicle Services Department.

3. Finalize the Process

Pay Fees: Be prepared to pay the necessary fees, which currently total $316 for standard vehicles ($165 title fee + $151 registration fee). Additional fees may apply for specific vehicle types or city requirements.
Emissions Test: Depending on the age of your vehicle, you may need to complete a vehicle emissions test.

Illinois VIN Check – Verify Vehicle History Before You Buy

If you plan to buy a used vehicle in Illinois, make sure you check the VIN and secure the vehicle history report to examine the vehicle’s specifications and its records, like accidents, auctions, or recalls.

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!

Illinois Bill of Sale Frequently Asked Questions

Is a photo of the bill of sale valid?

You can use a handwritten or digital bill of sale; both are acceptable if the document has all the necessary information and mutual consent.

Can a bill of sale just be written on paper?

Yes, a bill of sale can be handwritten; although digital versions are typical, a handwritten document is also acceptable. The key is ensuring all details are included to protect the buyer and seller.

What would happen if I sold a car without the bill of sale?

Selling a car without a bill of sale or title transfer is risky. You could be liable if the buyer doesn’t register it or has an accident.

Does the Illinois bill of sale need to be notarized?

No, notarizing a bill of sale in Illinois is not required for private vehicle sales. However, it’s a good idea to have it notarized, especially for high-value items like cars. Doing so helps confirm the buyer’s and seller’s identities and offers extra protection against fraud or future disputes.

How to write the bill of sale for cars in Illinois?

To write the car’s bill of sale in Illinois, you must include these information on the bill of sale: VIN, year, make, model, odometer reading, names and addresses of the seller and the buyer, and the final price of the vehicle.

Is a bill of sale mandatory in Illinois?

No, the bill of sale is not legally mandated in Illinois. However, it’s recommended to have the bill of sale to protect both buyers and sellers. However, a seller is required to submit the Notice of Sale to the Illinois DMV.