DFI's Five Divisions and Their Roles

Information about DFI's five divisions and what we do.

Division of Administration

Phone: (360) 902-8700

The Division of Administration provides the entire department with advice, facilitation, and quality personnel, financial, and information systems. The purpose is to furnish the support and framework necessary for the other divisions to effectively and efficiently accomplish their individual missions. The Mission of Administration is to plan, facilitate and coordinate the provision of quality support services to all employees and Divisions of the agency in an ethical and professional manner.

Division of Banks

Phone: (360) 902-8704

The Division of Banks regulates commercial banks, trust companies, savings banks, savings and loan associations, foreign banks, and SBA (7a) lenders incorporated in Washington. It protects the interests of depositors, borrowers, shareholders, and consumers through its examination and supervisory responsibilities.

Division of Consumer Services

Phone: (360) 902-8703

The Division of Consumer Services licenses and regulates business activities of consumer loan companies, mortgage brokers, mortgage loan originators, mortgage loan servicers, student education loan servicers, mortgage loan modification service providers, escrow agents, escrow officers, check cashers, check sellers, payday lenders, and money service providers. The division reviews the books and records of these businesses checking for compliance with applicable state and federal laws, handles consumer complaints against them, and may require that refunds be made or that other appropriate actions be taken.

Division of Credit Unions

Phone: (360) 902-8778

The Division of Credit Unions regulates state-chartered credit unions licensed to operate in Washington, while the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), is the federal insurer of shares and deposits in our credit unions. NCUA also has authority to enforce most of the consumer protection statutes that deal with credit unions. The division enforces some of these statutes in examinations of state-chartered credit unions, and also processes consumer complaints for credit union customers.

Division of Securities

Phone: (360) 902-8760

The Division of Securities regulates securities investments, franchises, business opportunities, and off-exchange commodities sold in Washington and the firms and individuals that sell these products or provide investment advice. The Division handles complaints, conducts investigations, and takes appropriate enforcement actions to protect investors and combat fraud.