What Is a Massachusetts Vehicle Bill of Sale?
A Massachusetts vehicle bill of sale is a binding document that proves the transfer of vehicle ownership. It contains essential details, like the sales price, vehicle description, and buyer’s and seller’s information. With a bill of sale for a car, a Massachusetts buyer can show proof of ownership and complete the title transfer.
A vehicle bill of sale also creates a clear record, which is important because of Massachusetts’s Lemon Law. The Lemon Law lets a buyer return a vehicle purchased from a private seller with an undisclosed defect within 30 days. If the buyer has a bill of sale that didn’t disclose a defect, they may have grounds to return the car and get their money back.
When Is a Massachusetts Vehicle Bill of Sale Needed?
You primarily need a Massachusetts motor vehicle bill of sale for vehicles exempt from titling or vehicles purchased from a private seller. Under state law, these vehicles have a model year of 1980 or older, and they must have been purchased before November 26, 1990. These older vehicles can be registered using a bill of sale and the previous owner’s registration.
An MA car bill of sale is also helpful for newer vehicles, especially if the title lacks a sales price. While the MA Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) may not require it, it can serve as additional proof of the sale.
Does a Massachusetts Vehicle Bill of Sale Need to Be Notarized?
A Massachusetts motor vehicle bill of sale does not need to be notarized, but doing so can be beneficial. It offers an extra layer of protection and helps validate the buyer’s and seller’s signatures. Plus, the buyer may have a more seamless registration process at the RMV when they have a notarized bill of sale.
Sample Massachusetts Vehicle Bill of Sale
View our free Massachusetts vehicle bill of sale form to learn what details you need to include. Write your own using our guided template, and download it to take to the RMV. Available in PDF or Word format.
