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Massachusetts Gun Bill of Sale

Official 2026 Private Transfer & Liability Document

In the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, every firearm transfer is tracked through the FA10 system, but a private Massachusetts Gun Bill of Sale is your only personal legal contract between parties. It captures the specific terms of the sale, the price, and the condition of the firearm at the moment of exchange. For 2026, keeping a signed record of the buyer’s LTC (License to Carry) or FID card details is your best defense against liability, providing a physical backup to the electronic state records.

⚠️ COMPLIANCE NOTICE: This document is formatted to follow Mass. Gen. Laws Ch. 140 § 128A. Verify that the buyer is not a prohibited person before completing the transfer.
1. Transaction Basics
2. Seller Details
3. Buyer Details
4. Firearm Identification

Warning: An incorrect serial number voids your liability protection.

How to fill out a Massachusetts Gun Bill of Sale

1
Verify Legal Eligibility Ensure both parties are Massachusetts residents and not "prohibited persons" under federal law or Mass. Gen. Laws Ch. 140 § 128A.
2
Enter Primary Details Fill in the sale date and the agreed-upon purchase price. Accurate financial records are essential for private property transfers.
3
Document Identification Record the full names, addresses, and MA LTC / FID Card Number numbers for both the buyer and seller. This is crucial for liability protection.
4
Inspect the Firearm Carefully transcribe the Make, Model, and Serial Number directly from the firearm's frame. Verification prevents future legal disputes.
5
Notary & Witness Requirements While not strictly required for private sales in Massachusetts, having the document signed before a **Notary Public** or an objective **Witness** provides the highest level of legal non-repudiation.

Massachusetts Firearm Transfer FAQ

Can I sell a gun hand-to-hand in Massachusetts?

Yes, but only if both parties have the proper license (LTC or FID) and the transaction is recorded online through the Massachusetts Gun Transaction Portal within 7 days. Paper FA-10 forms are no longer accepted.

What is the difference between an LTC and an FID?

A License to Carry (LTC) allows for handguns and large-capacity weapons. A Firearms Identification Card (FID) is generally for non-large-capacity rifles and shotguns. You must verify the buyer has the correct license for the specific weapon.

Is a Bill of Sale required if I report it online?

Yes. While the state requires the online report, the Bill of Sale is your private contract that proves the condition of the gun and the price, protecting you from future civil disputes.

How many guns can I sell privately in MA?

A resident who is not a licensed dealer may sell up to four firearms in any one calendar year.

Is there a waiting period in MA?

There is no statutory waiting period for private sales once the licenses are verified, but the buyer must already possess an LTC or FID, which takes weeks to obtain from the police.

Can I sell a 'large capacity' magazine?

Only if it was manufactured before September 13, 1994 ('pre-ban'). Selling newer high-capacity magazines (over 10 rounds) to civilians is a serious felony in Massachusetts.

What ID is required?

The buyer must present their Massachusetts LTC or FID card. You should also verify their identity with a standard MA Driver's License.

Who is prohibited from owning a gun in MA?

Anyone convicted of a felony, a violent crime, a drug offense, or anyone subject to a domestic violence restraining order (209A).

Related Forms in Neighboring States:

New Hampshire Gun Bill of Sale Vermont Gun Bill of Sale New York Gun Bill of Sale Connecticut Gun Bill of Sale Rhode Island Gun Bill of Sale

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