What Exactly Is a Bill of Sale?
A bill of sale is a legal document that records the sale of an item between a buyer and a seller. It usually takes place on higher ticket items. It will provide written proof that a transaction took place and lists key details like:
- The names and contact info of the buyer and seller
- A description of the item being sold (including serial/VIN numbers)
- The date of the sale
- The purchase price
- Signatures of the buyer and seller
Even though a bill of sale is not always legally required, it’s a good idea to have one for high-value items or vehicles. It helps avoid confusion and protects both parties if any issues come up down the road.
Now, do you need to get a bill of sale notarized? In most cases, no. A notary public is a third party who verifies the identities of the people signing the document. Notarization adds an extra layer of legitimacy but is typically only required for certain legal and financial papers.
For a routine bill of sale of a used car, recreational vehicle, or other personal property between individuals, notarization is usually not necessary. However, some states do require notarization for vehicle sales. It also can’t hurt to get it notarized anyway, especially if you’re buying or selling to someone you don’t know well.
At the end of the day, notarizing a bill of sale is a good precaution. It may give you more peace of mind and help avoid potential disputes. And for the small fee a notary charges, it’s probably worth the investment.
Does a Bill of Sale Need to Be Notarized to Be Valid?
So you’ve bought or sold a vehicle and now have a bill of sale in hand. But do you really need to go through the hassle of getting it notarized to make it official? The short answer is: no, not always.
A bill of sale is simply a document that records the sale and transfer of a vehicle from one party to another. Notarization can help prevent fraud and ensure the identities of buyers and sellers. For most private vehicle sales between individuals, a bill of sale does not need to be notarized to be considered legally valid and binding.
However, there are a few situations where notarization is a particularly good idea:
- If you’re selling a vehicle to a buyer in another state, notarization may be required to register the vehicle in their state.
- If you’re selling a high-value vehicle, notarization provides an extra layer of security and fraud prevention for both parties.
- Some states require notarization for vehicle sales over a certain dollar amount, like $5,000. Check with your local DMV to confirm the rules in your state.
- If there’s any uncertainty or distrust between the buyer and seller, notarization is a prudent step. A notary can verify the identities of both parties before officially notarizing the document.
So while not always legally mandated, notarizing a bill of sale is a good precautionary measure, especially for higher-value vehicles, items or interstate sales. For most straightforward private sales, however, an unsigned bill of sale can absolutely still be considered binding – as long as it contains key details about the vehicle and sale terms that both parties have reviewed and agreed to.
How to Get a Bill of Sale Notarized Online
Find an Online Notary Service
To get your bill of sale notarized without leaving home, use an online notary service. Companies like BlueNotary offer instant remote online notarization (RON) that’s legal and binding.
- Sign up for an account, upload a copy of your government-issued ID, and provide some personal information to verify your identity.
- Upload the bill of sale document and specify the type of notarization needed, like Acknowledgement or Jurat.
- Connect with a notary via webcam. The notary will review your ID and have you sign the bill of sale on camera.
- Pay any required fees, usually around $25 to $50. Prices vary between services.
- The document will be instantly available for you to download.
Prepare the Bill of Sale in Advance
To save time during your webcam meeting, prepare the bill of sale document ahead of time. The notary will just need to verify the signers’ identities and notarize the document. Make sure the bill of sale includes key details like:
- The names and signatures of the buyer and seller
- A description of the item(s) being sold, including any serial or vehicle identification numbers
- The date of sale and total purchase price
- The method of payment
Notarizing the bill of sale helps prevent fraud and ensures it will be accepted as legal proof of the sale. While not always required, notarization is recommended any time you buy or sell valuable property like a vehicle, boat, or artwork. An online notary makes the entire process fast, easy, and convenient without leaving your home.
General Question About Bill of Sale Notarized Online
1. What are the specific legal ramifications if a bill of sale is disputed and it wasn’t notarized?
In the event of a disputed bill of sale lacking notarization, the legal consequences can vary by jurisdiction and case specifics. Notarized documents typically carry more weight, their official seal verifying signatories’ identities. Without notarization, signature validity might be easier to challenge. Parties might need stronger evidence, like witness testimonies or bank records. However, lack of notarization doesn’t inherently invalidate the bill, just potentially complicates enforcement.
2. Can a bill of sale be notarized after the initial transaction if both parties agree?
Yes, parties can agree to notarize a bill of sale after the transaction, formalizing their agreement further or meeting regulatory needs. They’d present the original document to a notary, prove identities, and sign again, enhancing legal standing and peace of mind.
3. Are there alternative methods to notarization offering security and authenticity to a bill of sale?
Yes, alternatives exist. Witnesses can attest to the sale during the transaction, adding legitimacy. Legal assistance in drafting the document provides structure and protection. Using certified mail to exchange copies creates timestamped records, bolstering credibility without notarization.
