Bill of Sale
BILL OF SALE
STATE OF IOWA
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Document Header
- Definitions
- Sale and Transfer of Property
- Purchase Price and Payment
- Warranties and Representations
- Risk of Loss
- Title and Ownership
- Indemnification
- Vehicle-Specific Provisions (if applicable)
- General Personal Property Provisions
- General Provisions
- Execution Block
- Notary Acknowledgment (Optional)
1. DOCUMENT HEADER
This Bill of Sale (this "Bill of Sale") is made and entered into as of [DATE OF SALE] (the "Effective Date") by and between:
SELLER:
Name: [SELLER FULL LEGAL NAME]
Address: [STREET ADDRESS]
City: [CITY], Iowa [ZIP CODE]
Phone: [PHONE NUMBER]
Email: [EMAIL ADDRESS]
Iowa Driver's License No.: [LICENSE NUMBER] (optional but recommended)
BUYER:
Name: [BUYER FULL LEGAL NAME]
Address: [STREET ADDRESS]
City: [CITY], State: [STATE] ZIP: [ZIP CODE]
Phone: [PHONE NUMBER]
Email: [EMAIL ADDRESS]
Iowa Driver's License No.: [LICENSE NUMBER] (optional but recommended)
1.1 Recitals
A. Seller is the lawful owner of the Property (as defined below) and has full right, power, and authority to sell and transfer the Property.
B. Buyer desires to purchase the Property from Seller, and Seller desires to sell the Property to Buyer, upon the terms and conditions set forth herein.
C. The parties intend this Bill of Sale to evidence the transfer of ownership of the Property from Seller to Buyer.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants herein and the Purchase Price paid by Buyer to Seller, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties agree as follows:
2. DEFINITIONS
For purposes of this Bill of Sale:
"Bill of Sale" means this document and any attachments or exhibits hereto.
"Buyer" means the person or entity identified as Buyer in Section 1.
"Effective Date" means the date set forth in Section 1.
"Encumbrance" means any lien, security interest, pledge, mortgage, claim, charge, or other encumbrance of any kind.
"Property" means the personal property described in Section 3, including all accessories, attachments, and appurtenances.
"Purchase Price" means the total consideration paid by Buyer to Seller as set forth in Section 4.
"Seller" means the person or entity identified as Seller in Section 1.
"Vehicle" means, if applicable, the motor vehicle described in Section 9.
"Warranty Period" means [NUMBER] days from the Effective Date, or as otherwise specified in Section 5.
3. SALE AND TRANSFER OF PROPERTY
3.1 Grant of Sale
Seller hereby sells, assigns, transfers, conveys, and delivers to Buyer, and Buyer hereby purchases and accepts from Seller, all of Seller's right, title, and interest in and to the following described personal property:
PROPERTY TYPE: ☐ Motor Vehicle ☐ Watercraft/Boat ☐ Trailer ☐ ATV/Off-Road Vehicle ☐ Farm Equipment ☐ Livestock ☐ Other Personal Property
3.2 Property Description
For Motor Vehicles (complete Section 9):
- Year: [YEAR]
- Make: [MAKE]
- Model: [MODEL]
- Body Style: [BODY STYLE]
- Color: [EXTERIOR COLOR]
- VIN: [VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER]
- License Plate No.: [PLATE NUMBER] State: [STATE]
- Current Odometer Reading: [MILES] miles
For Other Personal Property:
- Description: [DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY]
- Serial Number(s): [SERIAL NUMBERS, IF ANY]
- Make/Model: [MAKE/MODEL, IF APPLICABLE]
- Quantity: [NUMBER OF ITEMS]
- Condition: [NEW / USED / AS-IS]
3.3 Included Items
The following items are included with the Property at no additional cost:
- [ ] Owner's manual and documentation
- [ ] Keys (quantity: [NUMBER])
- [ ] Remote controls/key fobs (quantity: [NUMBER])
- [ ] Accessories: [LIST ACCESSORIES]
- [ ] Service records and maintenance history
- [ ] Other: [DESCRIBE]
3.4 Excluded Items
The following items are expressly excluded from this sale:
[LIST ANY EXCLUDED ITEMS OR STATE "NONE"]
4. PURCHASE PRICE AND PAYMENT
4.1 Purchase Price
The total Purchase Price for the Property is: $[AMOUNT] (U.S. Dollars)
Written Amount: [AMOUNT IN WORDS] Dollars
4.2 Payment Method
Payment shall be made as follows (check all that apply):
☐ Cash: $[AMOUNT] paid upon execution
☐ Certified Check/Cashier's Check: $[AMOUNT] Check No.: [NUMBER]
☐ Personal Check: $[AMOUNT] Check No.: [NUMBER] (subject to clearance)
☐ Wire Transfer: $[AMOUNT] to Account: [LAST 4 DIGITS]
☐ Trade-In Credit: $[AMOUNT] for [DESCRIPTION OF TRADE-IN]
☐ Financing: $[AMOUNT] through [LENDER NAME]
☐ Other: $[AMOUNT] - [DESCRIBE]
4.3 Payment Acknowledgment
☐ Seller acknowledges receipt of the full Purchase Price.
☐ Partial payment of $[AMOUNT] received; balance of $[AMOUNT] due on [DATE].
4.4 Taxes and Fees
(a) Sales Tax: Buyer is responsible for payment of all applicable Iowa sales tax (currently 6% state, plus applicable local option sales tax up to 1%).
(b) Title and Registration Fees: Buyer is responsible for all title transfer and registration fees.
(c) Use Tax: If purchased from an out-of-state seller or private party, Buyer may be responsible for Iowa use tax.
(d) Other Fees: [SPECIFY ANY OTHER FEES AND RESPONSIBLE PARTY]
5. WARRANTIES AND REPRESENTATIONS
5.1 Seller's Representations
Seller represents and warrants to Buyer that:
(a) Seller is the sole and lawful owner of the Property;
(b) Seller has full right, power, and authority to sell and transfer the Property;
(c) The Property is free and clear of all Encumbrances, except: [LIST ANY ENCUMBRANCES OR STATE "NONE"];
(d) Seller has disclosed all known material defects in the Property;
(e) All information provided by Seller regarding the Property is true and accurate to the best of Seller's knowledge;
(f) The Property has not been used as collateral for any debt that remains unpaid.
5.2 Warranty Status (SELECT ONE)
☐ OPTION A: AS-IS SALE (No Warranty)
THE PROPERTY IS SOLD "AS-IS, WHERE-IS" WITH ALL FAULTS. SELLER MAKES NO WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. BUYER ACKNOWLEDGES THAT BUYER HAS HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO INSPECT THE PROPERTY AND ACCEPTS THE PROPERTY IN ITS PRESENT CONDITION.
Buyer's Initials: _______ Seller's Initials: _______
☐ OPTION B: LIMITED WARRANTY
Seller warrants that the Property shall be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of [NUMBER] days from the Effective Date (the "Warranty Period"). During the Warranty Period, Seller shall, at Seller's option, repair or replace any defective component. This warranty does not cover:
- Normal wear and tear
- Damage caused by misuse, abuse, or negligence
- Damage caused by unauthorized modifications
- Consumable items (filters, fluids, etc.)
☐ OPTION C: MANUFACTURER'S WARRANTY ONLY
The Property is sold with the remaining manufacturer's warranty only. Seller makes no additional warranties. Remaining warranty information:
- Warranty Provider: [NAME]
- Expiration Date: [DATE]
- Coverage: [DESCRIBE]
5.3 Known Defects Disclosure
Seller discloses the following known defects or conditions:
[LIST ALL KNOWN DEFECTS, DAMAGE, OR ISSUES, OR STATE "NONE KNOWN"]
5.4 Buyer's Acknowledgments
Buyer acknowledges that:
(a) Buyer has had the opportunity to inspect the Property prior to purchase;
(b) Buyer is satisfied with the condition of the Property;
(c) Buyer is not relying on any representations not contained in this Bill of Sale;
(d) Buyer understands the warranty status selected in Section 5.2.
6. RISK OF LOSS
6.1 Transfer of Risk
Risk of loss or damage to the Property shall pass to Buyer upon:
☐ Execution of this Bill of Sale
☐ Physical delivery of the Property to Buyer
☐ Other: [SPECIFY]
6.2 Insurance
Buyer is responsible for obtaining insurance coverage for the Property effective as of the transfer of risk.
7. TITLE AND OWNERSHIP
7.1 Transfer of Title
Upon receipt of the full Purchase Price, Seller shall:
(a) Execute and deliver this Bill of Sale;
(b) For vehicles: Sign over the certificate of title and provide all necessary transfer documents;
(c) Deliver physical possession of the Property to Buyer;
(d) Provide all keys, remotes, and access devices.
7.2 Title Documents
Seller shall provide the following documents (check all that apply):
☐ Certificate of Title (properly assigned on the reverse)
☐ Damage Disclosure Statement (Iowa Form 411007)
☐ Odometer Disclosure Statement (on title or separate form for vehicles 20 years old or newer)
☐ Lien Release (if applicable)
☐ Power of Attorney (Iowa Form 411015, if signing on behalf of owner)
☐ Other: [SPECIFY]
7.3 Encumbrances
☐ The Property is sold free and clear of all Encumbrances.
☐ The Property is subject to the following Encumbrance(s), which Buyer assumes:
Lienholder: [NAME]
Amount Owed: $[AMOUNT]
Account Number: [NUMBER]
8. INDEMNIFICATION
8.1 Seller's Indemnification
Seller shall indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Buyer from and against any claims, damages, losses, or expenses arising from:
(a) Any breach of Seller's representations or warranties in this Bill of Sale;
(b) Any Encumbrance on the Property not disclosed to Buyer;
(c) Any claim of ownership by a third party arising prior to the Effective Date.
8.2 Buyer's Indemnification
Buyer shall indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Seller from and against any claims, damages, losses, or expenses arising from:
(a) Buyer's use, operation, or ownership of the Property after the Effective Date;
(b) Any accident, injury, or damage caused by the Property after the Effective Date.
8.3 Limitation of Liability
IN NO EVENT SHALL EITHER PARTY'S LIABILITY EXCEED THE PURCHASE PRICE PAID FOR THE PROPERTY.
9. VEHICLE-SPECIFIC PROVISIONS
[Complete this section only if the Property is a motor vehicle, watercraft, trailer, or ATV]
9.1 Vehicle Information
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Year | [YEAR] |
| Make | [MAKE] |
| Model | [MODEL] |
| Body Style | [STYLE] |
| Exterior Color | [COLOR] |
| Interior Color | [COLOR] |
| VIN | [17-CHARACTER VIN] |
| Engine Number | [NUMBER] |
| License Plate | [PLATE] / State: [STATE] |
9.2 Odometer Disclosure (Federal and Iowa Requirement)
ODOMETER DISCLOSURE STATEMENT
(Required for vehicles less than 20 years old per Iowa Code § 321.71)
I, [SELLER NAME], hereby certify that the odometer reading as of the date of transfer is:
[ODOMETER READING] miles (no tenths)
☐ The odometer reading reflects the ACTUAL MILEAGE.
☐ The odometer reading reflects mileage IN EXCESS OF the odometer's mechanical limits (99,999 or 999,999).
☐ The odometer reading is NOT the actual mileage. WARNING: ODOMETER DISCREPANCY.
WARNING: Federal law (49 U.S.C. § 32703) and Iowa Code § 321.71 require disclosure of the vehicle's mileage upon transfer of ownership. Failure to complete this disclosure or providing a false statement may result in fines and/or imprisonment.
Seller's Signature: _________________________ Date: _____________
Buyer's Signature: _________________________ Date: _____________
9.3 Damage Disclosure (Iowa Requirement)
(Iowa Code § 321.69)
Has this vehicle ever been:
☐ Yes ☐ No - Declared a total loss by an insurance company
☐ Yes ☐ No - Issued a salvage, rebuilt, or flood title
☐ Yes ☐ No - Subject to flood damage
☐ Yes ☐ No - Designated as "junked" in Iowa or another state
☐ Yes ☐ No - Required to display a damage disclosure sticker
If yes to any of the above, explain: [EXPLANATION]
Seller certifies that the above damage disclosure information is true and correct to the best of Seller's knowledge.
Seller's Signature: _________________________ Date: _____________
9.4 Title Transfer Instructions (Iowa)
To complete the title transfer in Iowa:
Step 1: Seller's Responsibilities
- Complete the assignment section on the back of the title certificate
- Complete the odometer disclosure on the title (for vehicles under 20 years old)
- Provide a damage disclosure if required
- Remove the license plates (Iowa plates stay with the seller)
- Provide Buyer with this Bill of Sale
Step 2: Buyer's Responsibilities
- Obtain title and registration within 30 days of purchase (Iowa Code § 321.46)
- Visit your County Treasurer's office with:
- Signed title certificate
- This Bill of Sale
- Valid identification
- Proof of Iowa insurance
- Payment for fees and taxes - Pay applicable fees:
- Title fee: $25 (as of 2026; verify current)
- Registration fee: Based on vehicle value and weight
- Sales/Use tax: 6% state + local option tax - If purchasing from out-of-state seller, additional documentation may be required
Important Iowa Notes:
- Iowa does NOT require a bill of sale for vehicle title transfer, but it is strongly recommended
- Iowa does NOT require notarization for private vehicle sales
- Iowa does NOT require a safety inspection
- Emissions testing required only in specific counties (Polk, Linn)
9.5 Lienholder Release
If the vehicle has an existing lien:
- Lienholder Name: [NAME]
- Lienholder Address: [ADDRESS]
- Account Number: [NUMBER]
- Payoff Amount: $[AMOUNT]
☐ Seller will pay off lien and provide lien release within [X] days
☐ Buyer assumes lien and will make payments directly to lienholder
☐ Payoff will be made from proceeds at time of sale through escrow
10. GENERAL PERSONAL PROPERTY PROVISIONS
[Complete this section for non-vehicle personal property]
10.1 Detailed Property Description
[PROVIDE COMPREHENSIVE DESCRIPTION INCLUDING:
- Physical characteristics (size, weight, color, material)
- Brand, manufacturer, model number
- Serial numbers or identifying marks
- Age and condition
- Any accessories or components included]
10.2 Delivery
☐ Buyer takes possession at Seller's location: [ADDRESS]
☐ Seller will deliver to Buyer's location: [ADDRESS] by [DATE]
☐ Shipped via: [CARRIER] at [BUYER'S / SELLER'S] expense
10.3 Farm Equipment/Livestock Special Provisions
[If applicable for Iowa agricultural sales]
For Livestock:
- Species: [SPECIES]
- Breed: [BREED]
- Quantity: [NUMBER]
- Health certificates attached: ☐ Yes ☐ No ☐ N/A
- Brand registration (if applicable): [NUMBER]
For Farm Equipment:
- Serial Number: [NUMBER]
- Hours of Operation: [HOURS]
- Maintenance Records Provided: ☐ Yes ☐ No
10.4 Special Conditions
[ANY SPECIAL CONDITIONS OR AGREEMENTS REGARDING THE PROPERTY]
11. GENERAL PROVISIONS
11.1 Governing Law
This Bill of Sale shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Iowa, without regard to conflict of laws principles.
11.2 Entire Agreement
This Bill of Sale constitutes the entire agreement between the parties concerning the sale of the Property and supersedes all prior negotiations, representations, or agreements.
11.3 Amendment
This Bill of Sale may be amended only by a written instrument signed by both parties.
11.4 Severability
If any provision of this Bill of Sale is held invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.
11.5 Binding Effect
This Bill of Sale shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties and their respective heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns.
11.6 Counterparts
This Bill of Sale may be executed in counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original.
11.7 Electronic Signatures
Signatures transmitted by electronic means (PDF, DocuSign, etc.) shall be deemed original signatures for all purposes, in accordance with the Iowa Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (Iowa Code Chapter 554D).
11.8 Notices
Any notice required or permitted hereunder shall be in writing and delivered to the addresses set forth in Section 1.
12. EXECUTION BLOCK
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Bill of Sale as of the Effective Date.
SELLER:
Signature: _________________________________
Printed Name: _________________________________
Date: _________________________________
BUYER:
Signature: _________________________________
Printed Name: _________________________________
Date: _________________________________
WITNESS (Optional but Recommended):
Signature: _________________________________
Printed Name: _________________________________
Address: _________________________________
Date: _________________________________
13. NOTARY ACKNOWLEDGMENT (OPTIONAL)
[Not required in Iowa but recommended for high-value transactions]
STATE OF IOWA
COUNTY OF [COUNTY NAME]
On this [DAY] day of [MONTH], [YEAR], before me, the undersigned Notary Public, personally appeared:
[SELLER NAME], known to me (or proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence) to be the person whose name is subscribed to the within instrument, and acknowledged to me that he/she executed the same in his/her authorized capacity, and that by his/her signature on the instrument, the person, or the entity upon behalf of which the person acted, executed the instrument.
[BUYER NAME], known to me (or proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence) to be the person whose name is subscribed to the within instrument, and acknowledged to me that he/she executed the same in his/her authorized capacity.
WITNESS my hand and official seal.
_________________________________
Notary Public, State of Iowa
My Commission Expires: _________________
[NOTARY SEAL]
CHECKLIST FOR VEHICLE SALES IN IOWA
Seller's Checklist:
☐ Complete all sections of this Bill of Sale
☐ Sign the title certificate on the back (Assignment of Title section)
☐ Complete odometer disclosure on title (vehicles under 20 years old)
☐ Provide damage disclosure if vehicle was ever totaled, flooded, or salvaged
☐ Remove license plates (keep your plates)
☐ Cancel your insurance after sale is complete
☐ Notify your lienholder if applicable
☐ Keep a copy of this Bill of Sale for your records
Buyer's Checklist:
☐ Verify VIN matches title and vehicle
☐ Check title for liens or encumbrances
☐ Review damage disclosure carefully
☐ Obtain proof of insurance before driving
☐ Visit County Treasurer within 30 days to transfer title
☐ Pay sales/use tax and registration fees
☐ Keep copy of Bill of Sale for your records (at least 7 years)
IOWA COUNTY TREASURER OFFICES
For title transfer, visit your local County Treasurer's office:
- Find your county: https://treasurer.iowa.gov/county-treasurers/
Required Documents:
- Properly assigned title
- Bill of Sale (recommended)
- Valid Iowa driver's license or ID
- Proof of Iowa auto insurance
- Payment for fees and taxes
About This Template
A contract is a written record of what two or more parties agreed to and what happens if someone does not follow through. Clear language, defined terms, and clean signature blocks keep disputes small and enforceable. The most common mistakes in contracts come from vague promises, missing details about timing or payment, and skipping standard protective clauses like governing law and dispute resolution.
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Last updated: April 2026