Select banks in the state of Washington that match up with your professional needs. Investigate the type of business accounts the banks you're considering offer, then evaluate how well those of services and accounts fit in with your five-year or ten-year business plan. Knowing the services you utilize now—as well as those you're likely to need in the future—will help you make the best choice among banks in Washington.

Check the locations of several Washington banks to find out if they're convenient to where you do business. If you routinely travel for your business, you may want to consider a national bank that has local branches in Washington so you can access your business finances while you travel.

1. Evaluate the online banking services of Washington banking institutions.

2. Select banking institutions in Washington that are conveniently located to your home and business.

3. Look for business accounts and services at Washington banks.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Consider how user-friendly the online banking process is for Washington banks

Take into consideration the online services offered by Washington banks and the design of their sites. Discuss any fees that may be assessed for the use of online banking services as well as the safety precautions the bank has in place to prevent unauthorized access to your business accounts.

I recommend: 1st Security Bank of Washington offers a variety of online services including online statements and bill pay options. Anchor Bank provides online banking and bill-pay capabilities for your convenience.

Pinpoint a Washington banking institution that has branches where you need them

Determine how important it is to you to have branches of your preferred Iowa bank near your business as well as in other areas you frequent. If you travel often in the course of business, you may benefit from selecting a local branch of a national bank in order to have ready access to branches when you're on the road.

I recommend: Baker Boyer Bank boasts nine locations plus convenient ATMs to make your banking convenient to your home or office. Bank of Fairfield has six locations in Washington.

Uncover commercial banks in Washington that provide extensive business accounts and services

Look beyond the expected checking and savings accounts and discuss services tailored to help your business succeed. Ask about commercial loans, electronic tax payments or cash management solutions as well as other business-specific services.

I recommend: Cowlitz Bank provides more than simple checking and savings accounts; business options include merchant card services and automated clearing house services. American West Bank can help you with cash management and commercial loans to help you grow your business.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Evaluate the customer service provided by your banking institution in Washington. With a little effort you can find a high quality bank in the state of Washington that provides great banking options along with friendly service to all who walk through the door.