Firearm Bill of Sale Form - New York

Does a Firearm Bill of Sale have to be Notarized in New York?

Requirements vary depending on the New York county in which the sale is taking place. In some counties, you do need to notarize your Bill of Sale with a notary public.

How to Register a Firearm in New York?

New York gun laws require the registration of firearms. It enables law enforcement agencies to find, identify, and prosecute criminals and other individuals who illegally possess firearms. Additionally, registration creates accountability for handgun owners and discourages illegal sales. Every individual that acquired the assault weapon must make an application to register this gun with the Division of State Police. Registration involves providing personal details, including race and social security information, and an accurate description of the firearm. There is a $3 registration fee.

When buying or selling a gun, a Bill of Sale is an important, albeit not a required document. Traditionally, sellers physically record the selling of firearms to customers with the Bill of Sale, which acts as a receipt for the purchase of a handgun. Generally, this form includes personal information about the seller and the buyer (their names, addresses, driver's license numbers) and the details about the handgun - its model, make, serial number. It is also necessary to state the price of the gun, chosen method of payment, and the location and date of the transaction. Both parties must sign the Bill of Sale and keep it as proof of purchase. It is advisable to do so in case a situation arises that would require one of the parties to provide proof of sale and purchase.

Penalty for Unregistered Firearm in New York

Failure to register a handgun is a felony in New York. Even a gun registered anywhere outside the state is illegal if brought to New York without obtaining a license. If a gun if stowed in a case and the visitor is just passing through the state, a firearm is illegal if not registered properly. Even possession of an unloaded gun may lead to a felony arrest. Since it is a Class E felony, the lowest-level felony in the State of New York, it is punishable by a sentence of one to four years in prison and a fine of up to five thousand dollars.