Nebraska Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale Overview
Nebraska has a split brand inspection system similar to Kansas. Brand inspections are required in the western portion of the state (Brand Inspection Area) but not in the eastern portion. The Nebraska Brand Committee administers the brand inspection program. Nebraska is a major cattle state and requires thorough documentation for all livestock transfers. A bill of sale is essential documentation, especially in areas where brand inspection is not required.
5.5%
Sales tax
Yes
Brand inspection
Required
Health certificate
Required
Coggins test
Nebraska Livestock Transfer Requirements
Here's what you need to know for a smooth horse or livestock transaction in Nebraska:
Important: Nebraska Health Documentation
Nebraska 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 Nebraska Horse Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your Nebraska horse or livestock bill of sale.
Enter Seller Information
Include the seller's full legal name, farm or ranch name (if applicable), Nebraska 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, Nebraska 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.
Nebraska Brand Inspection Requirements
The Nebraska Brand Committee requires brand inspections for cattle and horses in the designated Brand Inspection Area covering approximately the western two-thirds of the state. Inspections are required at change of ownership, before transport out of the brand inspection area, and at slaughter. The Brand Committee maintains a registry of livestock brands and has investigators who work on livestock theft cases. In eastern Nebraska, where brand inspection is not required, bills of sale and other documentation become the primary proof of ownership.
Nebraska Health & Veterinary Requirements
Nebraska requires a negative Coggins test within 12 months for all equine change of ownership and entry to events. Interstate imports require a CVI issued within 30 days and a negative Coggins. Nebraska has specific cattle import requirements and requires entry permits for livestock. The state is vigilant about bovine tuberculosis and trichomoniasis in cattle. Nebraska may require additional testing for cattle originating from states with known disease issues.
Nebraska Livestock Fees & Taxes
Here's a breakdown of the typical costs associated with a horse or livestock transaction in Nebraska:
| Fee / Tax | Amount |
|---|---|
| Brand Inspection (per head) | $10.50 (where required) |
| Coggins Test | $20 - $40 |
| Health Certificate (CVI) | $25 - $60 |
| Brand Registration | $40 (4-year renewal) |
| State Sales Tax | 5.5% (agricultural exemptions may apply) |
Sample Nebraska Horse Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our Nebraska-specific horse bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required for Nebraska livestock transactions.
STATE OF NEBRASKA
HORSE / LIVESTOCK BILL OF SALE
Equine & Livestock Transfer Document
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [Nebraska Address]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [Nebraska Address]
ANIMAL DESCRIPTION
Species: [Species] Breed: [Breed]
Registered Name: [Name]
Reg. #: [Number] Sex: [Sex]
Coggins Date: [Date] Result: [Negative]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
Nebraska Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about Nebraska horse and livestock bills of sale, health requirements, and transfer regulations.
Official Nebraska Resources
Use these official state resources to verify requirements, check import regulations, and access government information for your Nebraska livestock transaction.
Nebraska Department of Agriculture
Livestock regulations and agricultural services
Nebraska 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 Nebraska Bill of Sale Templates
Need a different type of bill of sale for Nebraska? We offer state-specific templates for every type of property transfer.
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Create Your Nebraska Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale
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