Registrations and filings required for businesses - Department of Financial Institutions

You may be required to have a license, registration, or permit from the list below based on the business activity you selected from the Business Licensing Wizard. For more information, please contact the Department of Financial Institutions at 360-902-8700.

Franchise Broker Registration

Purpose

To allow a franchise broker to transact business in Washington State. Directly or indirectly engaging in the business of the offer or sale of franchises.

How to submit

File the application with the Securities Division, including the required fee.

Processing time

Within 15 days.

Fees

$50 - Initial registration
$25 - Annual renewal

License renewals

Valid for one year.

Mortgage Broker License

Purpose

Required for any company that for compensation or gain, or in the expectation of compensation or gain: (a) assists a person in obtaining or applying to obtain a residential mortgage loan or (b) holds itself out as being able to assist a person in obtaining or applying to obtain a residential mortgage loan or engages in third party processing or underwriting.

How to submit

Must apply through a nationwide licensing system.

Processing time

25 days

Fees

$901 - Application
$36.25 - Fingerprint card processing
$15 - Credit report
$530 - Renewal

License renewals

License must be renewed annually on or before Dec. 31.

Securities Registration by Coordination Permit

Purpose

Allows the offer or sale of any securities in an offering that is registered federally and that is not of a federal covered security or an exempt securities offering.

How to submit

File the application with the Securities Division, including the required fee.

Processing time

10 business days assuming SEC effective and no proceeding pending; per RCW 21.20.190.

Fees

$100 for first $100,000 offered in this state plus 1/40th of 1% of the amount over $100,000 offered in this state.

License renewals

Valid for one year.

Trust Company Charter (Registration)

Purpose

Allows the operation of a state chartered trust company.

How to submit

The application process is comprehensive and somewhat lengthy. It is important for the Division of Banks to gather a significant amount of information to ascertain whether the proposed new trust company could be successful.

Processing time

Minimum 120 days.

Fees

There is an hourly charge based on time it takes to review and investigate the application

License renewals

None