Free Florida Bill of Sale Word [Printable, Fillable Templates]

If you’re selling or buying a vehicle (or a boat, mobile home, or other titled personal property) in Florida, you’ve likely heard of a bill of sale — or more specifically, the Florida Bill of Sale Word document that many people search for to easily download and fill out. A bill of sale is a written document that records the sale of property — in our context, often a car, trailer, boat, or mobile home. It serves as legal proof of the transaction — detailing who sold it, who bought it, the purchase price, the date, and a description of the item.

In Florida, although the primary law governing titles and transfers is found in Chapter 319 of the Florida Statutes (for motor vehicles and mobile homes) and administered by the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), a bill of sale remains an essential (and sometimes required) document for private sales.

In my legal practice here in Florida, I often help clients understand how to properly complete their Florida Bill of Sale Word form — including when it’s needed, what details must be included, and how to avoid common mistakes. In this article, I’ll explain everything you need to know, step-by-step, and also provide a free downloadable Florida Bill of Sale in Word format (.docx) that you can easily edit and use.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For advice specific to your situation, consult a qualified attorney.

Free Florida Bill of Sale Word Templates

If you’re selling or buying a car, boat, or any personal property in Florida, having a Florida Bill of Sale is essential. It legally records your transaction, protects both parties, and helps with title transfer through the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). A well-prepared Bill of Sale outlines important details such as the buyer and seller’s names, sale price, date of sale, and the vehicle’s VIN or description.

To make things easier for you, I’ve created free Florida Bill of Sale templates in Word format that you can easily edit and use for your own transaction. These templates are fully customizable, designed according to Florida’s legal requirements, and suitable for vehicles, boats, and other personal property.

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Florida Car Bill of Sale Word

If you’re planning to sell or buy a car in Florida, one of the most important documents you’ll need is a Florida Car Bill of Sale. This document serves as proof of the transaction — showing who sold the vehicle, who bought it, the agreed price, and the exact date of sale. It helps both the buyer and seller protect their rights and complete the title transfer legally through the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) office.

In my experience as a licensed Florida attorney, I’ve seen many clients face delays or disputes simply because their sale wasn’t properly documented. A well-prepared Florida Car Bill of Sale ensures clarity and compliance with Florida Statutes §319.23 and §319.27, which outline ownership transfer and lien recording requirements.

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Florida Auto Bill of Sale Word​

If you’re buying or selling a car privately in Florida, having a Florida Auto Bill of Sale is essential to protect both parties. This document serves as legal proof of the vehicle’s sale, including details such as the buyer and seller information, sale date, purchase price, and vehicle description (like make, model, year, and VIN). It’s an important part of completing a vehicle transfer in compliance with Florida Statutes §319.22 and §319.23, which regulate title transfers and proof of ownership.

In my legal practice here in Florida, I’ve seen how a properly written bill of sale can prevent future disputes over ownership, taxes, or liability. Whether you’re selling a used car to a neighbor or buying a vehicle from a private owner, a detailed, signed bill of sale offers you protection and clarity under Florida law.

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Florida Boat Bill of Sale Word​

If you’re selling or buying a boat in Florida, you’ll need a Florida Boat Bill of Sale — a legal document that records the transfer of ownership between a seller and a buyer. This document protects both parties by clearly listing the boat’s details (like HIN, make, model, year), the sale price, and the date of sale. In Florida, the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) requires this document during the registration or title transfer process, especially for vessels powered by engines or longer than 16 feet.

A properly completed Boat Bill of Sale helps avoid future disputes, confirms proof of purchase, and is often required for tax and ownership verification. Whether you’re finalizing a private sale or gifting your vessel, it’s essential to have this document ready and accurate.

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What is a Bill of Sale in Florida?

In Florida, a bill of sale is a written document by which the owner (seller) transfers ownership of personally-owned property (such as a motor vehicle or mobile home) to a buyer, for a stated consideration (money, trade, etc.). In the context of vehicles and mobile homes, the transfer of title is principally governed by Chapter 319 of the Florida Statutes. For example:

• Under § 319.23(3) Fla. Stat., if a certificate of title has not previously been issued for a motor vehicle or mobile home in Florida, then the application for certificate must be accompanied by a “proper bill of sale or sworn statement of ownership, or a duly certified copy thereof…”

• Also, § 319.22 Fla. Stat. governs the transfer of title, including ownership and possession.

In my experience, the bill of sale helps to document the private sale transaction and supports the title application process with FLHSMV or a county tax collector’s office. While a bill of sale is not always the required document for every sale (since title transfer laws dominate), it serves as important proof and can be especially useful if the title is missing, the vehicle was previously untitled, or other complications exist.

Is a Bill of Sale Required in Florida?

The short answer: sometimes yes, sometimes no, depending on the type of transaction and whether a title is required or already exists. Here’s how to break it down:

When it is required or strongly advisable

• When a vehicle or mobile home has never been issued a Florida certificate of title (for example, imported or previously untitled property). Under § 319.23(3) Fla. Stat., the application must be accompanied by a bill of sale or sworn statement.

• When you want to clearly document the sale terms and protect both seller and buyer (e.g., purchase price, condition, odometer reading).

• For private sales (non-dealers) where the title may have issues (missing signatures, previous out-of-state title, salvage, etc.).

When it is optional

• When you’re simply transferring a titled vehicle and the seller signs the title, the buyer applies for a new title, and everything is straightforward. In that case the title itself is the primary vehicle of transfer.

• When a licensed dealer is involved: many of the statutory forms and reassignment procedures apply, rather than a simple private bill of sale.

• For everyday private sales of vehicles with clear title, the bill of sale may not be strictly required by statute, but still has value for documentation.

In my practice, even when not strictly required, I advise clients to prepare a simple bill of sale. It helps reduce risk of misunderstanding, potential odometer ledger issues, and later disputes.

Step‐by‐Step Process to Complete a Bill of Sale

Here is a practical step-by-step guide you can follow when you’re selling or buying a vehicle (or mobile home) in Florida and you wish to include a bill of sale:

Step 1: Gather information

• Seller’s full legal name and address.

• Buyer’s full legal name and address.

• A description of the item sold: make, model, year, vehicle identification number (VIN) (or hull ID for boat, serial for mobile home), color, odometer reading (if applicable).

• Date of sale.

• Sale price (or if it’s a gift/consideration other than money, state that).

• Condition of the item (you may include “as is” clause if appropriate).

Step 2: Draft the bill of sale

• Use a simple form or blank page.

• Title the document: e.g., “Bill of Sale – Motor Vehicle (Florida)”.

• Insert the gathered information in clear paragraphs: “For good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, [Seller’s Name] hereby sells, transfers and conveys to [Buyer’s Name] the following motor vehicle…”.

• Include the sale price or other consideration.

• Insert “as is” clause if you the buyer is accepting it without warranty (common in private sales).

• Add a statement of no known liens (or disclose if there are liens).

• Signatures: seller and buyer. Optionally, include a witness or notary acknowledgment (see below).

Step 3: Complete the title transfer process

• The seller must sign the assignment section on the certificate of title (front or back as required).

• Provide the buyer with the signed title, which the buyer submits to the county tax collector or FLHSMV for new registration and certificate of title. Under § 319.22(3) Fla. Stat., title may not be accepted for transfer unless the name of the seller is shown as the owner on the title.

• Buyer pays applicable taxes and fees and submits documents to FLHSMV or county tax collector.

• If the bill of sale is being used because there was never a prior Florida title, include it with the title application.

Step 4: Keep copies for records

• Seller should keep a copy of the bill of sale and a copy of the title assignment for their records (for liability purposes, to show you sold the vehicle).

• Buyer keeps original bill of sale and submitted title documentation.

Step 5: Notify FLHSMV / County (optional but recommended)

While the bill of sale is not always required for notice to FLHSMV, under § 319.22(b) Fla. Stat., an owner who has sold a motor vehicle and delivered possession to the purchaser shall notify the department within 30 days after the sale or transfer in the form prescribed. Submitting the bill of sale with that notice strengthens your protection.

Key Legal Requirements (VIN, Odometer, Notary, Tax Collector details)

When drafting or using a bill of sale in Florida, here are key legal-required or strongly recommended items to ensure you are compliant and protected:

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or other identifier

You must include the VIN of the vehicle (17-digit number) in the bill of sale and in the title assignment. This ties the document to the specific vehicle and prevents ambiguity.

Odometer reading (for vehicles)

Under federal and Florida law (see Florida Statute § 319.225) an odometer disclosure statement is required for motor vehicles. In my practice I always include the exact odometer reading in the bill of sale. If you fail to do this, you may be exposed to liability for mis-reporting mileage.

“As-Is” clause and condition of sale

In a private sale, the seller typically sells “as-is, with no warranties” unless otherwise stated. I advise my clients to clearly state this in the bill of sale to avoid future claims of implied warranty or defect.

Notary or witness (optional but advisable)

A notary acknowledgment is not strictly required for most private vehicle sales in Florida; however, having the signature notarized or at least witnessed adds an extra layer of reliability (in case of future dispute). If you are transferring a mobile home, some county tax collector offices may request notarization of the bill of sale. Check local requirements.

Date of transaction

Ensure the date of sale is clearly stated (month/day/year). This is important for tax, title and liability reasons (for example, you want to show you stopped being the owner as of that date).

Sale price or other consideration

State the sale price (for example: “the purchase price of five-thousand dollars ($5,000)”) or if no money is exchanged (e.g., gift) say “for the sum of ONE DOLLAR ($1) and other valuable consideration”.

Signatures of all parties

Both the seller and buyer must sign the bill of sale; print their names legibly, include addresses and contact information. If the seller is a business entity, include the full legal business name and authorized signatory.

Tax collector / title transfer details

When the buyer takes the signed title and bill of sale to a county tax collector’s office or FLHSMV, they will pay the title transfer fee and sales tax. The seller should ensure the title assignment is correctly completed. Under § 319.23(1) Fla. Stat., application for title must be on the form prescribed by the department. If a licensed dealer is involved, § 319.23(6) Fla. Stat. requires the dealer to submit notice of sale within 30 days.

Without properly completed paperwork, the buyer may face delays and the seller may retain risk of liability (for example, if the vehicle is involved in a traffic incident after your sale date but title transfer is delayed).

Example or Template of a Florida Bill of Sale

Below is a sample layout you can adapt. This is for illustrative purposes only and must be adjusted for your specific transaction.

BILL OF SALE – MOTOR VEHICLE (Florida)
Date of Sale: ___________ (MM/DD/YYYY)
Seller: [Full Legal Name] of [Address: Street, City, State, ZIP]
Buyer: [Full Legal Name] of [Address: Street, City, State, ZIP]

For good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, Seller hereby sells, transfers and conveys to Buyer the following motor vehicle:

• Make: _________

• Model: _________

• Year: _________

• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): _________

• Odometer Reading: _________ miles

The purchase price is _________ dollars ($_________). The vehicle is sold “AS IS”, with no warranties, either express or implied, by the Seller.
Seller further states that at the time of sale the vehicle is free of all liens and encumbrances, except as disclosed here: _________ (or “None”).
Seller certifies that they are the lawful owner of the vehicle and have full authority to sell it.
Buyer acknowledges receipt of the vehicle and that Buyer has had the opportunity to inspect the vehicle and accepts it in its current condition.

SELLER SIGNATURE: _________________________________
Printed Name: ____________________________________
Date: _________

BUYER SIGNATURE: _________________________________
Printed Name: ____________________________________
Date: _________

(Witness or Notary Acknowledgment if used)

Witness/Notary Signature

In my legal practice, I have seen bills of sale that omit the VIN, or leave the odometer blank, or fail to state the “as is” condition; such omissions create risk for both parties. Ensure you complete all fields fully.

Common Errors or Legal Pitfalls

Here are common mistakes I observe in Florida private sales, and how to avoid them:

• Missing or incorrect VIN: If you leave off the VIN or record the wrong one, you risk ambiguity and potential liability. Always transcribe the VIN exactly.

• Not noting the odometer reading: Under § 319.225 Fla. Stat., federal and state law require odometer statement disclosure. Omitting this can lead to penalties.

• Failing to sign the title properly: The seller must complete the assignment section of the certificate of title (unless untitled and you’re proceeding via bill of sale + title application). If this is not done correctly the buyer may struggle to register.

• Seller remains liable: If you give the vehicle away or sell it, but do not complete the paperwork (title assignment or notice to FLHSMV), you may still be treated as the owner in the records and liable for parking tickets, tolls, or accidents. Under § 319.22(b) Fla. Stat., the owner must notify the department within 30 days after sale.

• Hidden liens or encumbrances: The buyer should always check whether there are liens. Under § 319.27 Fla. Stat., any lien must be noted on the face of the certificate of title for it to be enforceable.

• “As is” not stated: If you sell “as is” but you don’t state it, you may be exposed to claims from the buyer for defects. Clear language mitigates risk.

• Using outdated forms or not providing a copy to each party: Make sure both buyer and seller keep a copy of the bill of sale and title documents. In disputes, having a signed copy matters.

• Not paying sales tax or not reporting correctly: The buyer is normally responsible for taxes and fees at the county tax collector’s office. If you overlook this, there may be issues with registration.

In my experience as a Florida attorney, taking the extra few minutes to complete the bill of sale properly can save both parties significant headaches down the road.

FAQs

Do I need to have a bill of sale notarized in Florida?

For most private motor vehicle sales, notarization is not strictly required by statute. However, using a notary or witness adds legitimacy and may be requested by the county tax collector if there are irregularities.

If the vehicle was previously titled in another state and has no Florida title, is a bill of sale enough?

No, just a bill of sale alone may not suffice. Under § 319.23(3) Fla. Stat., when no Florida certificate of title has previously been issued, the application must be accompanied by a proper bill of sale or sworn statement plus other required documentation. Florida Senate+1 The buyer must apply for a Florida title and may need to submit out-of-state title, VIN verification, etc.

If I sell my car and sign the bill of sale, but forget to sign the title, am I still liable?

Potentially yes. Merely signing a bill of sale does not complete the title assignment process. Under § 319.22(3) Fla. Stat., the title must show the seller as owner and be properly assigned for the buyer to get a new title. Florida Senate+1 In my practice I always tell sellers: “Don’t just rely on the bill of sale; make sure you assign the title and deliver it.”

Can I use the bill of sale for tax deduction or gifting?

Yes. If you are gifting a vehicle (sale price $0 or “$1 and other valuable consideration”), you can reflect that in the bill of sale. However, the buyer will still be responsible for registration and any applicable taxes unless a specific tax-exempt scenario applies under Florida law.

Where do I get the official title transfer forms?

The official forms are available from FLHSMV (visit their website) or at your county tax collector’s office. For example, the TL-18 “Application for Certificate of Title and Satisfaction of Liens” form is published by FLHSMV. The bill of sale is separate and often privately drafted.

Conclusion

In summary: when you are selling or buying a motor vehicle, mobile home, boat (if titled) or other similar property in Florida, a bill of sale is a valuable document that records the transaction, helps protect seller and buyer, and supports the title-transfer process. Though not always strictly required, it is highly advisable. By including the key elements (seller/buyer, description with VIN, odometer reading, sale price, “as-is” condition, signatures) and ensuring you complete the title assignment and submit any required notice, you avoid many common pitfalls. In my legal practice in Florida, I repeatedly see where a missing field or omitted signature creates costly delays or legal exposure.

If you’re preparing a private sale in Florida, download your free Florida Bill of Sale template, fill it out carefully, sign it, and retain a copy. And if you have any unusual circumstances (out-of-state title, missing title, boat, mobile home, gift, lien issues), consult a qualified Florida attorney—it’s worth a few minutes of professional advice to avoid significant risk.