Bill of sale is a formal written statement by which a seller transfers to a purchaser the title to an item of personal property. A bill of sale is necessary only if a state law requires it, or if both parties agree that the purchaser should receive one.
A few states require by law that a particular form of bill of sale be used. But most states have no such requirements. If no particular form of bill of sale is required, any clear and definite written statement of transfer of property, which is fully described, is legally acceptable. Such a statement must usually show the date, the names of the parties, a clear description of the property sold, and the sale cost of the property. The seller must sign the bill of sale, and some states require that this signature be acknowledged before a notary public (see Notary public ).
