It’s National Consumer Protection Week. Each day this week I will be featuring one of the many ways the Washington Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) helps protect you and your money.
Today, I feature a few of the many free resources DFI offers Washington residents to educate them about fraud and smart money management.
Please note: Hard copy publications can only be shipped to addresses within Washington state.
Banking
- FAQs for Bank Business Loan Customers in Turbulent Times
Answers to some of the frequently asked questions bank business loan customers may have.
- Safety of Banks and Credit Union Deposits
Information about the safety of deposits in Washington banks and credit unions.
- Guide to Home Loans
DFI's Guide to Home Loans walks you through and explains the home buying process. It explains the forms you will encounter and questions to ask before buying. - Foreclosure Information
There are a number of foreclosure rescue scams out there. Protect yourself by learning what to do if you are having trouble making your monthly mortgage payment and where to turn for help in Washington state. - Be Cautious When Using Loan Modification Services
DFI advises homeowners who are delinquent on their mortgage to be cautious about using the services of someone offering to help them work with their lender to modify the terms of their home loan. - Guide to Title and Insurance and Escrow Services (PDF)
A consumer’s guide to title insurance and escrow services.
- 7 Investor Education Booklets
7 investor education booklets that cover the basics of investing and how to avoid fraud. - Top 10 Investment Traps In Washington
10 investment traps DFI has identified as the most likely to trap Washington investors. - What You Need to Know before You Buy an Equity-Indexed Annuities (PDF)
Information you should know before you buy an Equity-Indexed Annuity.
Money Management
- Right on the Money - Financial Know-How for College Students
Right on the Money is an informative booklet that introduces readers to the world of personal finance.
- Payday Loans in Washington State
Information from DFI about Payday Loans in Washington. Loan limits, rules lenders must follow, and more.