Illinois trailer — quick answer
In Illinois, a trailer bill of sale is recommended and notarization of the title transfer is not required. The state form used for titled vehicles is RUT-50. Titling and registration are handled by the Illinois SOS.
Is a trailer bill of sale required in Illinois?
Recommended. There is no official state bill of sale form; the assigned title transfers ownership and a tax form reports the sale.
Seller assigns the title; the buyer files the title application and RUT-50 use tax with the Secretary of State.
Does a Illinois trailer bill of sale need to be notarized?
Not required. No notarization required.
What to include on a Illinois trailer bill of sale
- Buyer and seller names and addresses
- Year, make, and trailer type
- VIN or serial number
- Length, number of axles, and empty weight
- Price, date, and signatures
How to transfer a trailer in Illinois
- 1Complete the bill of sale and title assignment.
Record the buyer, seller, price, and date. Both parties sign and date.
- 2Hand over the signed title.
Seller assigns the title; the buyer files the title application and RUT-50 use tax with the Secretary of State.
- 3Register with the Illinois SOS.
The buyer titles and registers the trailer, bringing Private Party Vehicle Use Tax (RUT-50). Confirm current fees on the official page.
Official sources
Requirements change and can vary by county. Confirm with the Illinois SOS before you sign. Not legal advice.
Illinois Trailer Bill of Sale — FAQ
Is a trailer bill of sale required in Illinois?
A bill of sale is recommended in Illinois. There is no official state bill of sale form; the assigned title transfers ownership and a tax form reports the sale.
Does a Illinois trailer bill of sale need to be notarized?
No. No notarization required.
Do I need to title a trailer?
It depends on the trailer’s weight and your state. Heavier trailers usually require a title and registration; many small utility trailers only need registration. Check your state page.
What if my trailer has no VIN?
Homemade or older trailers may need a state inspection to be assigned a VIN before they can be titled. The bill of sale still documents the sale in the meantime.
Is a bill of sale proof of ownership?
Generally no. For titled property like a car or boat, the title is what proves ownership. A bill of sale proves that a sale happened and records the price, date, and terms — it supports the title transfer but does not replace it. For untitled property (furniture, equipment, electronics), the signed bill of sale is usually the main proof of ownership.