Washington State Department of Financial Institutions

FAQs Regarding Changes In The Markets

The Department of Financial Institutions has put together this Web page to answer some of the frequently asked questions regarding recent changes in the economy.

Are My Bank Or Credit Union Deposits Safe?

DFI has developed a Web page that offers resources and answers many frequently asked questions regarding deposit insurance.


What Happens To My Accounts If A Brokerage Firm Closes Its Doors?

Given the turbulence affecting the financial services industry these days—including recent announcements concerning Lehman Brothers—you may be wondering what would happen to your securities account if your brokerage firm closed its doors.

The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) has issued an investor alert to help investors understand the protections provided under federal securities laws to safeguard investor assets.


What Should I Do With My Investments?

DFI’s Securities Division urges Washington State investors to make informed decisions about their long-term financial holdings and to seek the advice of a trusted investment adviser or financial planner before making any sudden moves with their money, particularly during the ongoing market volatility and unprecedented turmoil on Wall Street.


What Should I Do If I Am Having Trouble Making My Monthly Mortgage Payments?

Counseling is available to Washington residents who are having trouble making their monthly mortgage payments or are facing foreclosure.

To connect with a counselor call 1-877-894-HOME or visit http://www.homeownership.wa.gov for more information.


Where Can I Get Information About Mortgage Servicing?

The Federal Trade Commission has developed an informational Web page about mortgage servicing.


How Do I Find Out About The Financial Health Of My Bank Or Credit Union?

If you are curious about the financial health of your bank or credit union, quarterly financial statements are posted on the FDIC and NCUA Web sites.


Questions? Contact DFI

If you have questions, please feel free to contact us.

Washington Department of Financial Institutions
Phone: (360) 902-8700
Toll-Free: 1-877-746-4334
TDD: (360) 664-8126

* 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.

DFI