Make a Michigan Bill of Sale

What Are Some Common Bills of Sale Used in Michigan?

A bill of sale is used to document the transfer of ownership of personal property.  The most common bills of sale used in Michigan are a general bill of sale, a motor vehicle bill of sale, a bill of sale for a boat, and a bill of sale for a gun.

How Do I Write a Michigan Bill of Sale?

A Michigan bill of sale includes certain information about both parties, the buyer and the seller:

• Their names (printed)
• The date of the bill of sale
• Certain information about the item being sold by the buyer to the seller
• The amount the item was sold for
• The signatures of the involved parties
• In some circumstances, the bill of sale may need to be notarized

A Michigan bill of sale can be written in plain English. There’s no need for legal archaic terms or legal jargon. The important part is to make sure that the bill of sale includes the required elements. If you are a party listed in a Michigan bill of sale, make sure that you have more than one copy of the completed document.

Is a Michigan Bill of Sale Required to Register a Motor Vehicle?

No. You do not need a Michigan bill of sale to register a vehicle. The Michigan Department of State has a handy PDF to help you prepare to register your vehicle. You will need a title. You can use a bill of sale if you do not have another form for proof of ownership. You would use a bill of sale if you're purchasing what is known as an assembled vehicle. You'll also want to complete BDVR-108, an Odometer Mileage Statement.

Make sure that in addition to the title that you have proof of insurance, your photo identification, and that you're prepared to pay taxes and registration fees.

Is a Michigan Bill of Sale Form Required to Register a Boat?

No. You do not need a Michigan bill of sale to register a boat. You do need the title if you've purchased the boat from a private party. The boat registration process is completed through ExpressSOS or at a local Secretary of State office.

Is a Bill of Sale Required to Register a Gun in Michigan?

No. A Michigan bill of sale is not required to register a gun. Michigan has no system of registration although retail gun sellers are required to keep records on gun sales. Although there is no legal requirement for a Michigan bill of sale for a gun, the document is still helpful because it provides proof of legal ownership.