Washington Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale Overview
Washington is a brand inspection state with mandatory inspections for cattle and horses. The Washington State Department of Agriculture's Livestock Identification Program administers brand inspections. Revised Code of Washington Chapter 16.57 governs livestock brands and inspections. Washington has significant cattle and horse industries, particularly in the eastern part of the state. A brand inspection certificate and bill of sale together document legal ownership transfer.
6.5%
Sales tax
Yes
Brand inspection
Required
Health certificate
Required
Coggins test
Washington Livestock Transfer Requirements
Here's what you need to know for a smooth horse or livestock transaction in Washington:
Important: Washington Health Documentation
Washington 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 Washington Horse Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your Washington horse or livestock bill of sale.
Enter Seller Information
Include the seller's full legal name, farm or ranch name (if applicable), Washington 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, Washington 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.
Washington Brand Inspection Requirements
Washington requires brand inspections for cattle and horses at change of ownership and before transport out of the state. The Washington State Department of Agriculture's Livestock Identification Program conducts inspections. Washington brand registration must be renewed every 5 years. The state has a network of brand inspectors, primarily concentrated in eastern Washington where most livestock operations are located. Inspections verify ownership and issue official certificates.
Washington Health & Veterinary Requirements
Washington requires a negative Coggins test within 12 months for equine change of ownership and events. Interstate imports require a CVI issued within 30 days and negative Coggins. Washington requires import permits for all livestock. The state has specific cattle requirements and monitors for diseases common in the Pacific Northwest. Washington coordinates with Oregon and Idaho on regional livestock health issues.
Washington Livestock Fees & Taxes
Here's a breakdown of the typical costs associated with a horse or livestock transaction in Washington:
| Fee / Tax | Amount |
|---|---|
| Brand Inspection (cattle, per head) | $8.50 - $13 |
| Brand Inspection (horses, per head) | $8.50 - $13 |
| Coggins Test | $25 - $50 |
| Health Certificate (CVI) | $30 - $70 |
| Brand Registration (5 years) | $50 |
| State Sales Tax | 6.5% (plus local taxes; agricultural exemptions may apply) |
Sample Washington Horse Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our Washington-specific horse bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required for Washington livestock transactions.
STATE OF WASHINGTON
HORSE / LIVESTOCK BILL OF SALE
Equine & Livestock Transfer Document
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [Washington Address]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [Washington Address]
ANIMAL DESCRIPTION
Species: [Species] Breed: [Breed]
Registered Name: [Name]
Reg. #: [Number] Sex: [Sex]
Coggins Date: [Date] Result: [Negative]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
Washington Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about Washington horse and livestock bills of sale, health requirements, and transfer regulations.
Official Washington Resources
Use these official state resources to verify requirements, check import regulations, and access government information for your Washington livestock transaction.
Washington State Department of Agriculture
Livestock regulations and agricultural services
Washington 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
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Create Your Washington Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale
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