, but they can provide extra protection for the buyer and seller. Bills of sale usually contain information about the vehicle—like the VIN, make, model, and year—as well as the names, addresses, and signatures of the seller and buyer. The purchase price and date of purchase can also be included.

Filling out a bill of sale is an important step in the

private sale of a vehicle

. Even if they aren’t required in every state, completing a bill of sale is always the safest option so that you have proof of the transaction.

What is a bill of sale?

A bill of sale is essentially an official receipt for the private sale of a vehicle. The bill of sale normally contains the basic information of the transaction and vehicle, including:

Date of purchase

Vehicle identification number (VIN)

Description of the vehicle

Amount paid

Names, addresses, and signatures of the seller and buyer

In the state of Arizona, the bill of sale doesn’t transfer ownership of the vehicle—only a

title transfer

does. A bill of sale is what lists the terms of the agreement of your transaction with the other party in a private vehicle sale.

Is a bill of sale required in Arizona?

Arizona does not require a bill of sale for private vehicle sales. Using a bill of sale provides proof that both parties agreed upon the transaction, so it should provide some extra protection for everyone involved.

Even if it’s not required, completing a bill of sale when buying or selling a vehicle is the smartest decision. The bill of sale document is evidence of the terms of agreement, which can be useful to have in your records.

What is required in an Arizona bill of sale?

The bill of sale form in Arizona requires only the seller’s signature, but the document is not required to transfer ownership. The seller must include the following information to fill out

the form

Vehicle year, make, and model

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

Sale date and payment amount

Buyer’s information (name, driver’s license number, date of birth, address)

Seller’s information (name, driver’s license number, date of birth, address)

Seller’s signature

Notary agent’s signature, if necessary

When completed, the seller should submit it to the Arizona DMV as part of the title transfer process.

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What should I do after I get a bill of sale?

Since a bill of sale serves only as a receipt, it doesn’t transfer ownership of the vehicle. You need to complete a

title transfer

to officiate the process of switching ownership. To transfer ownership from seller to buyer, you must fill out the information on the back of your title certificate.

The buyer will need to apply for a title within 15 days of the purchase. In Arizona, you can complete an

eTitle Transfer

without having to go to the DMV.

It’s important to keep a copy of the bill of sale for your records. This can provide protection from any possible legal disputes since the bill of sale serves as evidence of your agreement with the buyer or seller.

How to find affordable car insurance

After you finish your bill of sale and turn over the title and registration, you’ll need to find

car insurance

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