Arkansas Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale Overview
Arkansas requires a bill of sale or other proof of ownership for livestock transactions. The Arkansas Livestock and Poultry Commission oversees animal health regulations and livestock identification. Arkansas law mandates a current negative Coggins test for all equine sales, and the state has strong enforcement of EIA testing requirements. The state does not require brand inspections but does maintain livestock market regulations through the Arkansas Livestock and Poultry Commission.
6.5%
Sales tax
No
Brand inspection
Required
Health certificate
Required
Coggins test
Arkansas Livestock Transfer Requirements
Here's what you need to know for a smooth horse or livestock transaction in Arkansas:
Important: Arkansas Health Documentation
Arkansas requires a current negative Coggins test for all equine change of ownership. Ensure your Coggins test is within the required timeframe before completing the sale. For interstate transport, both a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection and negative Coggins are required.
What the Seller Must Provide
- Signed Bill of Sale: Complete bill of sale with animal description, sale price, and both parties' information
- Current Negative Coggins: EIA test within 12 months performed by an accredited veterinarian
- Registration Papers: Signed transfer section on breed registration certificate (if registered)
- Health Records: Vaccination history, deworming schedule, and veterinary records
- Disclosure of Known Issues: Any known health problems, lameness, vices, or behavioral issues
What the Buyer Should Obtain
- Signed Bill of Sale: Original copy with both signatures
- Coggins Test Certificate: Copy of the current negative Coggins report
- Registration Certificate: With signed transfer (if registered animal)
- Health Certificate: If transporting across state lines, CVI within 30 days
How to Fill Out a Arkansas Horse Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your Arkansas horse or livestock bill of sale.
Enter Seller Information
Include the seller's full legal name, farm or ranch name (if applicable), Arkansas mailing address, phone number, and email. If the seller is a licensed dealer or breeder, include the license or business registration number.
Enter Buyer Information
Include the buyer's full legal name, farm or ranch name, Arkansas address, phone number, and email. The buyer's location determines which local tax rates apply to the transaction.
Describe the Animal
Provide a detailed description: species (horse, cattle, goat, etc.), breed, registered name and number (if applicable), sex, age or date of birth, color, height (in hands for horses), weight, and all identifying markings, brands, tattoos, or microchip numbers.
Document Health Status
Record the Coggins test date and result (for equines), health certificate number and date, vaccination history, and deworming schedule. Attach copies of all health documentation to the bill of sale.
State Sale Price and Terms
Enter the agreed purchase price in both numbers and words. Note the payment method and any installment terms. State whether the sale is as-is or includes warranties (soundness, breeding, vice-free, etc.). Disclose any known health issues or behavioral concerns.
Sign and Complete Documentation
Both buyer and seller sign and date the bill of sale. Print two copies. Transfer breed registration papers by signing the transfer section. Ensure Coggins and health certificates are current. Complete any required brand inspections before transport.
Arkansas Brand Inspection Requirements
Arkansas is not a brand inspection state and does not have a state brand board. There is no requirement to register livestock brands or obtain brand inspections for sales or transport within the state. Livestock identification in Arkansas relies on bills of sale, breed registration papers, and individual animal identification methods such as ear tags, tattoos, and microchips.
Arkansas Health & Veterinary Requirements
Arkansas has strict Coggins testing requirements — all equines must have a negative EIA test within the previous 12 months for change of ownership, entry to shows or sales, and transport within the state. Interstate transport of horses into Arkansas requires a CVI issued within 30 days and a negative Coggins. Cattle entering Arkansas must meet brucellosis and tuberculosis testing requirements. The Arkansas Livestock and Poultry Commission issues entry permits for all livestock entering the state.
Arkansas Livestock Fees & Taxes
Here's a breakdown of the typical costs associated with a horse or livestock transaction in Arkansas:
| Fee / Tax | Amount |
|---|---|
| Coggins Test | $20 - $40 |
| Health Certificate (CVI) | $25 - $60 |
| State Sales Tax | 6.5% (plus local taxes) |
| Livestock Entry Permit | No fee |
| Brand Inspection | Not required |
Sample Arkansas Horse Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our Arkansas-specific horse bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required for Arkansas livestock transactions.
STATE OF ARKANSAS
HORSE / LIVESTOCK BILL OF SALE
Equine & Livestock Transfer Document
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [Arkansas Address]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [Arkansas Address]
ANIMAL DESCRIPTION
Species: [Species] Breed: [Breed]
Registered Name: [Name]
Reg. #: [Number] Sex: [Sex]
Coggins Date: [Date] Result: [Negative]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
Arkansas Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about Arkansas horse and livestock bills of sale, health requirements, and transfer regulations.
Official Arkansas Resources
Use these official state resources to verify requirements, check import regulations, and access government information for your Arkansas livestock transaction.
Arkansas Department of Agriculture
Livestock regulations and agricultural services
Arkansas State Veterinarian
Animal health, Coggins testing, and import requirements
USDA APHIS — Veterinary Services
Federal animal health regulations and accredited veterinarians
USDA — Interstate Livestock Movement
Federal requirements for transporting livestock across state lines
Other Arkansas Bill of Sale Templates
Need a different type of bill of sale for Arkansas? We offer state-specific templates for every type of property transfer.
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Create Your Arkansas Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale
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