Wisconsin Bill of Sale Form – Download Free Template

Buying or selling a vehicle in Wisconsin? A bill of sale isn’t just paperwork; it’s a vital record of the transaction. While not always required for registration, it helps protect both parties from potential legal disputes.

What is the Wisconsin Bill of Sale?

A Wisconsin bill of sale is an important document that provides a legal record of a vehicle or vessel transaction, ensuring a clear transfer of ownership. It includes details such as the sale price, date, buyer and seller information, and vehicle specifics.

For buyers, it offers protection in case of title issues, tax requirements, or future claims, while sellers benefit by having a written record that releases them from liability after the sale. Whether you’re buying from a private seller or a dealership, completing a bill of sale adds an extra layer of security to the transaction.

Why Sellers Need a Bill of Sale in Wisconsin?

When selling a car in Wisconsin, a bill of sale is more than just a formality. It helps you prove when the vehicle left your possession and protects you if the new owner fails to act quickly.

Proves the transaction took place and confirms you’re no longer the vehicle owner.
Helps protect you from liability, such as parking tickets or toll violations, after the sale.
Especially useful if the buyer delays transferring the title.
In Wisconsin, buyers have 30 days to transfer the title. The bill of sale records the sale date and helps you avoid legal or financial issues.

Why Buyers Need a Bill of Sale in Wisconsin?

For buyers, a bill of sale acts as evidence of ownership and offers protection if any problems arise after purchasing the vehicle.

Serves as proof of legal ownership of the vehicle.
Protects you if there’s a delay in the title transfer.
Helps prevent disputes between buyer and seller.
May be required for registration, insurance, or handling legal and financial matters after the purchase.

The Types of Bill of Sale in Wisconsin

Wisconsin has a few different types of bill of sale, each of them have the same purpose: to record an important transaction. Aside from the vehicle bill of sale, here’s the list of Wisconsin bill of sales.

Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale: Used for selling or transferring a car. It includes key details like the VIN, odometer reading, and sale price, and is required when registering the vehicle with the Wisconsin DMV.
Boat Bill of Sale: Records the sale of a boat or watercraft and serves as proof of ownership for registration.
Firearm Bill of Sale: Documents the private sale or trade of a firearm, confirming a legal transfer of ownership.
General Bill of Sale: Used for personal property such as electronics, tools, or furniture not covered by other forms.
Junk Vehicle Bill of Sale: Required for vehicles that are sold or transferred as junk for parts or scrap.
Real Estate Bill of Sale (Form WB-25): Used in property transactions to document the sale and payment terms, separate from personal property bills of sale.

What Does the Wisconsin Bill of Sale Contain?

A properly drafted bill of sale is more than a receipt; it’s a comprehensive record of the transaction. Hence, the bill of sale should have written the following information:

Buyer and seller details: Full names and addresses
Vehicle information: Make, model, year, VIN, and mileage
Sale price: The agreed-upon amount
Date of sale: The official transfer date
Signatures: Both parties must sign for validity

How to Register a Vehicle in Wisconsin?

To register a vehicle in Wisconsin, complete the Title and License Plate Application (Form MV1), provide proof of ownership (such as the title), and pay the required fees. You can register online, by mail, or in person at a DMV service centre.

Online Registration

Use the eMV Public Service to complete and pre-fill the MV1 form.
Pay the fees online, then print the e-application receipt, and sign it
Mail the application with the original title to the Wisconsin DMV. You may continue using your current plates until new ones arrive.

(Note: Online service isn’t available for vehicles with more than two owners or a lienholder.)

By Mail or In Person

Mail or bring your completed MV1 application, vehicle title, and payment (check, money order, or card) to a DMV office. In-person visits include a $5 counter service fee.

Notes:

New residents must register within 60 days of moving to Wisconsin.
Be ready to pay all applicable registration and wheel taxes.
If your vehicle has a lienholder or multiple owners, apply by mail or in person instead of online.

Wisconsin 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 accident, lien/loan records, warranty status, 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

Bill of sale requirements differ by state. Click below to download a template customised for your location.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Wisconsin Bill of Sale?

Is a bill of sale required in Wisconsin?

A separate bill of sale is not legally required in Wisconsin. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (DOT) states that the signed-over title serves as the official legal proof of sale for vehicles.

However, a bill of sale is highly recommended for both vehicles and other personal property (like firearms). It provides a crucial, separate document to:

Document the transfer of ownership.
Provide verifiable proof of the transaction.
Assist in resolving future disputes or title/registration issues.

Does the bill of sale need to be notarised in Wisconsin?

A bill of sale does not need to be notarised to be legally valid for most transactions in Wisconsin. While optional, notarization is beneficial as it provides an extra layer of legal protection, especially in vehicle sales.

Can you get a free Wisconsin Bill of Sale?

Yes, you can get a free Wisconsin bill of sale form from many sources, like the Detailed Vehicle History, the form is not only free but also downloadable.