
WaFd Bank
WaFd Bank is an active SBA lender in Washington, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 4.0 stars across 34 Google reviews.
$78M
in SBA approvals since 2010
218
SBA loans funded
Wholesale & Distribution · Transportation & Trucking · Real Estate & Property Management
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About WaFd Bank
WaFd Bank offers comprehensive SBA lending services tailored to meet the needs of small businesses seeking financial support for growth and development. With a focus on providing accessible funding options, the bank specializes in SBA 7(a) loans, which are ideal for a variety of business purposes including working capital, equipment purchase, and real estate acquisition. Located in Seattle, WA, the bank provides personalized service and expert guidance to help clients navigate the lending process efficiently. Their experienced team understands the unique challenges faced by small businesses and works to streamline approval times, ensuring quick access to funds. Whether you're a startup or an established business, WaFd Bank is committed to supporting your financial goals with flexible loan structures and competitive rates. Their expertise in SBA programs makes them a reliable partner for entrepreneurs looking to expand or stabilize their operations. The bank's strategic focus on small business lending demonstrates their dedication to fostering local economic growth and community development. Contact them today to learn more about their SBA loan offerings and how they can assist your business in achieving its objectives.
Serves SBA borrowers in 9 states
WaFd Bank has funded SBA loans for businesses in these states, by borrower location. Tap a state to see every lender serving it.
Industries WaFd Bank finances
Business types WaFd Bank actively lends to, from its SBA loan history. Tap one to see every lender serving it.
- Restaurants & Food Service
- General Retail
- Construction & Contractors
- Manufacturing
- Medical Practices & Clinics
- Wholesale & Distribution
- Automotive Repair & Services
- Transportation & Trucking
- Cleaning, Landscaping & Janitorial
- Food Manufacturing & Processing
- Salons, Spas & Personal Care
- Real Estate & Property Management
Common questions about WaFd Bank
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a bank that offers SBA lending services tailored to small businesses, providing financing options like SBA 7(a) loans to support growth and development. You can find information on loan programs, application processes, and personalized assistance to help you secure funding for your business needs.
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
It's recommended to schedule an appointment to meet with a loan officer for personalized guidance, but walk-in consultations may be available during business hours. Calling ahead can ensure you receive dedicated assistance promptly.
What are the hours of operation?
The bank typically operates from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. It's best to contact the branch directly to confirm hours or to schedule an appointment outside regular hours if needed.
Is there a fee to use this?
There are no fees for simply inquiring or applying for SBA loans, but standard loan-related fees such as guarantee fees, closing costs, and interest rates apply depending on the loan terms.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This bank primarily serves residents and small business owners in the local and regional area, but eligibility for SBA loans depends on meeting specific financial and business criteria.
What minimum personal credit score does this bank look for in a guarantor?
A minimum personal credit score of around 640 is typically required, but approval depends on overall financial health, collateral, and business performance.
How long does the traditional underwriting process take from start to close?
The underwriting process generally takes between 30 to 60 days, depending on the complexity of the application and completeness of documentation.
Is this open on weekends?
Most banks keep weekday business hours and are closed on weekends, and WaFd Bank typically follows the same pattern. SBA lending staff are generally reachable Monday through Friday. A few locations offer Saturday or by-appointment hours, so call WaFd Bank to confirm current weekend availability before you go.
How do I get there and where do I park?
WaFd Bank is located in Washington — see the contact card for the full address. Most bank locations offer free on-site or nearby street parking for visitors. For exact directions, the entrance, and accessible parking, use the listed address or call ahead and staff can point you to visitor spaces.
Who owns or operates this listing?
This page is an independent directory listing for WaFd Bank, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by WaFd Bank itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at WaFd Bank, you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.
How current is the information on this page?
The core details for WaFd Bank — name, location, contact, and lender type — are compiled from public records and reviewed periodically. Rates, programs, credit policies, and hours change often and are not guaranteed here, so always confirm the latest terms directly with WaFd Bank before applying. If you represent WaFd Bank, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach WaFd Bank by phone at (206) 204-3446 or online at wafdbank.com — the details are in the contact card on this page. For SBA loans specifically, ask for their business lending or SBA department. Treat this directory page as a starting point and confirm hours and contact details with WaFd Bank before relying on them.
What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?
Based on its approved SBA loans, WaFd Bank most often finances businesses in construction & contractors, restaurants & food service, medical practices & clinics, manufacturing, transportation & trucking, and automotive repair & services. This reflects WaFd Bank's real SBA 7(a) and 504 lending history rather than a stated policy — it can still consider other industries and sets its own current preferences, so confirm with WaFd Bank which sectors it actively lends to before you apply.
Can I apply for an SBA Express line of credit at this branch?
SBA Express offers lines of credit and term loans up to $500,000 with a faster turnaround than standard 7(a) loans. Whether WaFd Bank participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact WaFd Bank and ask if it offers SBA Express and what the current limits and terms look like for your situation.
Does this bank have Preferred Lender Provider status with the government?
SBA Preferred Lender Program (PLP) status lets a lender approve loans in-house without sending each one to the SBA first, which usually means faster decisions. Many established banks hold PLP status, but it varies by institution. WaFd Bank can confirm its current PLP standing — ask before you apply if speed matters to you.
Are start-up companies eligible for financing at this traditional institution?
The SBA does fund start-ups, but many traditional lenders prefer at least two years of operating history and may ask newer ventures for a larger equity injection or stronger collateral. WaFd Bank's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask WaFd Bank directly whether it considers start-up loans.
What are the typical down payment expectations for commercial real estate acquisitions?
For SBA 7(a) and 504 commercial real estate loans, borrowers typically contribute around 10% to 20% as a down payment or equity injection, depending on the property and the deal. Exact requirements vary with your credit, the business, and the lender's policy. Ask WaFd Bank what down payment it expects for your specific commercial real estate purchase.
Does this bank impose prepayment penalties on short-term working capital facilities?
SBA 7(a) loans with terms under 15 years generally carry no prepayment penalty, while longer real estate loans can have one in the early years. Short-term working capital lines often have no penalty, but terms vary by lender. Review your loan agreement and ask WaFd Bank to spell out any prepayment penalties before you sign.
Can I use loan proceeds from this bank to buy out an existing equity partner?
SBA loans can be used for a partner or owner buyout, including buying out an existing equity partner, when the deal is structured to meet SBA rules — for example, the remaining owner generally must stay actively involved. Approval depends on the specifics, so discuss your buyout plan with WaFd Bank to confirm it qualifies and how to document it.
Will historical personal bankruptcies automatically disqualify my loan application here?
A past personal bankruptcy does not automatically disqualify you from an SBA loan. Lenders look at how long ago it was discharged, the circumstances, and how your credit has recovered since. WaFd Bank weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask WaFd Bank how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.



