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Free Illinois Bill of Sale Template

An Illinois bill of sale documents the transfer of personal property between a buyer and a seller. It acts as proof of purchase and helps prevent disputes by recording important details of the transaction. Use our customizable Illinois bill of sale template to quickly generate a legally valid record of sale.

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  • Duration 2 min
  • Download as PDF and Word
  • E-sign included

Written by Josh Sainsbury | Attorney-Reviewed by Harvey Barbee, J.D.

How It works?

1

Choose Your Template

Select the Illinois bill of sale form you need (vehicle, boat, trailer, firearm, or motorcycle).

2

Fill In the Details

Provide information about the buyer, seller, property details, and the purchase price.

3

Finalize and Sign

Review your document, sign it, and keep a copy for registration or tax purposes.

Table of Contents

  1. What Is an Illinois Bill of Sale?
  2. When Do You Need a Bill of Sale in Illinois?
  3. Does an Illinois Bill of Sale Have to Be Notarized?
  4. Illinois-Specific Tips and Common Scenarios

What Is an Illinois Bill of Sale?

An Illinois bill of sale is a legal document that records the sale or transfer of ownership of property. It usually includes:

  • Buyer and seller names and contact details
  • Description of the property (make, model, VIN/HIN/serial number)
  • Purchase price and payment terms
  • Date of transfer
  • Signatures of both parties

Bills of sale are commonly used for vehicles, motorcycles, boats, trailers, firearms, and other personal property.

When Do You Need a Bill of Sale in Illinois?

While Illinois law does not always require a bill of sale, it is strongly recommended in the following cases:

  • Vehicles: A bill of sale is useful for private sales, especially when registering or paying taxes with forms RUT-25 or RUT-50.
  • Boats: Required for most powered watercraft. The Illinois DNR requires boat, motor, and trailer values to be listed separately.
  • Trailers: A bill of sale is not required, but a Seller’s Report of Sale must be filed to complete registration and titling with the Illinois Secretary of State.
  • Firearms: Strongly recommended to document lawful transfers. Buyers must hold a valid Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card.
  • Motorcycles: Not strictly required, but they provide proof of sale and help resolve ownership disputes.

Does an Illinois Bill of Sale Have to Be Notarized?

No, Illinois does not generally require bills of sale to be notarized. However:

  • Vehicles & Motorcycles: Not notarized by law, but notarization can add extra protection if the title is missing or unclear.
  • Boats: Not required, but some transactions involving older boats without titles may benefit from notarization.
  • Firearms: Not required, but a notarized bill of sale ensures both compliance and clarity in FOID-verified transactions.
  • Trailers: Notarization is not mandated, but may be useful for salvaged or homemade trailers.

Illinois-Specific Tips and Common Scenarios

  • Vehicles: Must be registered within 20 days of purchase from a private individual. Out-of-state titles may require proof of ownership such as a bill of sale.
  • Boats: All powered vessels must be registered. Fees range from $28 (under 16 ft) to $210 (over 40 ft). A bill of sale is required and should list boat, motor, and trailer values separately.
  • Trailers: Registration requires payment of applicable title and registration fees, which vary depending on the date of issuance and whether the trailer is newly acquired, currently titled, or replacing expiring plates.
  • Firearms: Only FOID card holders may buy firearms. A bill of sale helps confirm the transfer was lawful and protects both parties.
  • Motorcycles: Title transfer must be completed within 20 days for a private sale. Dealers must send the title to the Secretary of State within 20 days of purchase. Form RUT-50 (Private Party Vehicle Use Tax Transaction) is required in addition to registration fees.