- Payday loans are legal in Washington under the RCW 31.45 (Check Cashers and Sellers).
- The typical APR on a $400 payday loan in Washington was 391% (CRL, June 2023, from state regulator data).
- Borrowing $300 at the maximum fee costs $45 (15% fee).
Payday loan rules in Washington
| Rule | Washington |
|---|---|
| Maximum loan | $700 or 30% of your gross monthly income, whichever is less |
| Maximum fee | 15% on the first $500, 10% on amounts above $500 |
| Loans per year | No more than 8 in any 12-month period |
| Payment plan | You can ask for an installment plan with no extra fees |
Rules checked 2026-10-04. Laws change, so confirm current limits with the Washington Department of Financial Institutions.
What a payday loan costs in Washington
The Center for Responsible Lending found the typical APR on a $400 single-payment payday loan in Washington was 391%, based on data from the state regulator (June 2023). Under the state’s fee limits, borrowing $300 costs $45 (15% fee). Use our cost calculator to turn any offer into an APR.
Most payday loans are due in one payment on your next payday. If repaying leaves you short again, ask about an extended payment plan and avoid renewals.
Need $100–$1,000 before payday?
- One free request, many lenders
- Bad credit and benefit income considered by many lenders
- See the APR and total cost before you sign
PaydayEase is not a lender. Requests go to lenders in our network; approval, rates and terms are set by the lender. Rates & fees
How to check a lender in Washington
- Make sure the lender is licensed by the Washington Department of Financial Institutions. Many lenders can also be looked up on NMLS Consumer Access.
- Get the APR and finance charge in writing before you sign. Federal law requires them.
- Be careful with online lenders that say Washington law does not apply to them because they are tribal or offshore.
- File complaints with the state regulator and the CFPB.
Cheaper options in Washington
- Credit union payday alternative loans (PALs): $200–$2,000 at no more than 28% APR. Search for a federal credit union in Washington that offers them. See how PALs work.
- Your bank’s small-dollar loan, if it offers one. See bank small-dollar loans.
- Cash advance apps for $20–$500 based on your direct deposits. See apps compared.
- 211: call or text 211 for local help with rent, utilities and food.
Washington cities
Local guides for 262 Washington cities and towns, with credit unions, nearby towns and the rules that apply.
- Payday loans in Seattle
- Payday loans in Spokane
- Payday loans in Tacoma
- Payday loans in Vancouver
- Payday loans in Bellevue
- Payday loans in Kent
- Payday loans in Everett
- Payday loans in Spokane Valley
- Payday loans in Renton
- Payday loans in Federal Way
- Payday loans in Yakima
- Payday loans in Bellingham
- Payday loans in Kirkland
- Payday loans in Kennewick
- Payday loans in Auburn
All 262 Washington cities, A to Z
Need cash before payday?Send one free request to our lender network. We are not a lender; offers and rates come from lenders.
Request a loanFrequently asked questions
Are payday loans legal in Washington?
Yes. Payday lending is legal in Washington under the RCW 31.45 (Check Cashers and Sellers) and is regulated by the Washington Department of Financial Institutions.
What is the typical payday loan APR in Washington?
The Center for Responsible Lending reported a typical APR of 391% on a $400 payday loan in Washington, using state regulator data (June 2023).
Where can I complain about a payday lender in Washington?
Contact the Washington Department of Financial Institutions and file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.