Washington State Division of Banks
The Division of Banks regulates Washington State-chartered commercial banks, stock savings banks, mutual savings banks, alien banks, savings and loan associations, and independent trust companies.
We charter new banks, business development corporations, trust companies, foreign banks, and savings and loan associations. Also, we authorize new branches and branch closures; and approve mergers and acquisitions. Learn more about the Division of Banks.
Questions or Problems with Your Bank?
- Help and resources for Washington bank customers.
Lists of Who We Charter and Regulate (Find an Institution)
- Commercial Banks and Savings Institutions
- Trust Companies and Trust Departments
- Business Development Corporations, Small Business (7a) Lenders, & Agencies of Non-U.S. Banks
Division of Banks News
Below you will find what's new from the Division of Banks.
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Banks Encouraged To Work With Those Affected By The Skagit Bridge Collapse
DFI recognizes the serious impact that the Interstate 5 bridge collapse may have on business, commerce, and operations of financial institutions in the State of Washington. DFI is encouraging banks to work constructively with customers affected by this disaster. Banks that operate or have customers in the area affected by this event should consider ways to assist customers while transportation disruptions persist.
Memo from DFI Regarding Bridge Collapse (PDF)* -
State Bank Regulators Support Bill Restricting Online Payday Lending
The Conference of State Bank Supervisors issued a letter in strong support of the Stopping Abuse and Fraud in Electronic Lending Act of 2013 (the SAFE Lending Act).
Announcement from CSBS -
Sunwest Bank Purchases Westside Community Bank
Westside Community Bank was closed by DFI on Friday, January 11, 2013. Sunwest Bank has purchased all the assets of Westside Community Bank.
Information from DFI -
Semi Annual Assessment Due No Later Than January 31, 2013
Assessment due no later than January 31, 2013 based on assets as of December 31, 2012.
Download Assessment Worksheet (Excel) -
State and Federal Authorities Combat Corporate Account Takeover
State and federal authorities have announced efforts to assist financial institutions in adopting best practices to reduce the risks of corporate account takeover. Corporate account takeover is a form of identity theft where cyber thieves gain control of a business’ bank account, often by stealing user passwords and other valid credentials. Once this information is obtained, thieves can then initiate fraudulent wire and ACH transactions.
Statement from CSBS -
FTC Issues Amended Rule on Identity Theft "Red Flags"
The Federal Trade Commission has announced publication of an Interim Final Rule on identity theft "red flags" that narrows the circumstances under which creditors are covered by the Rule.
Announcement from FTC -
State Regulators Support Integrated RESPA and TILA Disclosures
The Conference of State Bank Supervisors (CSBS) support efforts by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB, or the Bureau) to integrate mortgage disclosures. The revised disclosures are geared toward addressing the discrepancies between the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA) and the Truth in Lending Act (TILA), for which lenders, consumers, and regulators have long-pursued reconciliation.
Statement from CSBS - Division of Banks Opinions Search Engine
You can now search for opinions (2003-current) from the Washington Division of Banks using our new opinions search engine and index.
Search Opinions
Letters and Resources
- List of Washington Bank Closures - 2009-2013
- Governor Gregoire’s Letter In Support Of Community Banks (PDF)*
- FFIEC SAFE Act FAQs
Help and Resources for Customers of Washington Banks
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Deposit Insurance for Washington Bank Customers
Information about deposit insurance through the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). The standard insurance amount currently is $250,000 per depositor. -
FAQs for Bank Business Loan Customers in Turbulent Times
Answers to frequently asked questions business loan customers may have about loans and credit lines. -
File a Complaint
File a complaint against an institution regulated by the Division of Banks. -
Help With My Bank
Helpwithmybank.gov helps you find answers to your National Banking questions.
Contact Us
The Division of Banks business hours are 8 am - 5 pm (PST), Monday - Friday.
Mailing Address:
Department of Financial Institutions
Division of Banks
PO Box 41200
Olympia, WA 98504-1200
Phone Numbers:
Phone: 360-902-8704
Toll Free: (877) RING DFI (746-4334)
TDD: (360) 664-8126
Fax: 360-753-6070
Email: banks@dfi.wa.gov
Hours: 8 AM - 5 PM PST (Monday - Friday)
* This document is a PDF file, and you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view it. If you don't already have Acrobat Reader installed on your computer, you may download it for free from Adobe.
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