Washington businesses that offer tax refund anticipation loans must register with the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions.

How to Register with DFI

Follow the instructions below to register with DFI.

Step 1. Request an access code

Email RALS@dfi.wa.gov to request an access code. Include:

  • The full name of your business
  • The primary email address

Step 2. Complete the CSV template

Download and complete the Refund Anticipation Loan Facilitator CSV template.

Important: Do not modify the template. Changes will cause your upload to be rejected.

Step 3. Upload Your CSV file

Visit the online registration system and follow the instructions to upload your CSV file.

After uploading, you’ll receive an email confirmation. Print this confirmation for your records.

Step 4. Calculate and pay the registration fee

Write a check payable to the "Washington State Treasurer" for $35 per Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN).

Example:
If your business has:

  • 1 main office EFIN
  • 3 branch office EFINs
  • 1 website EFIN

Your fee is $35 × 5 = $175

Step 5. Mail your payment and confirmation

Mail the printed confirmation email and payment to:

Department of Financial Institutions
PO Box 41200
Olympia, WA 98504-1200

Laws and Rules

RCW 19.265
Tax Refund Anticipation Loans

List of Registered Refund Anticipation Loan Facilitators

  • RAL Lookup Tool
    Search for registered Washington Refund Anticipation Loan Facilitators.

Questions? Contact Us

If you have any questions, contact the Licensing Staff