Washington State Collection Agency Board Seeks New Members

Gov. Bob Ferguson is appointing new board members to oversee industry standards and licensing. Learn how you can advocate for your peers and give back to the profession.

The Washington State Collection Agency Board has announced two openings for licensee member positions, offering collection industry professionals an opportunity to help shape industry regulations. The positions, appointed by Gov. Bob Ferguson, carry a four-year term.

Board members provide diverse perspectives on industry matters. Members receive compensation for meeting attendance, board-related work, and travel reimbursements pursuant to state laws RCW 43.03.240, 43.03.050, and 43.03.060. While the position does not include state benefits like retirement credits or medical insurance, it offers valuable opportunities to advise the Department of Licensing on industry-related matters.

Required Qualifications

Candidates must meet specific criteria as outlined in RCW 19.16.280. The position requires that:

Appointees have an active engagement in the collection agency business, with at least five years of experience as an owner or executive employee in Washington state.

Appointees must maintain their involvement and licensure throughout their term and cannot have interests in collection agencies associated with other board members.

Additionally, holders of other elected or appointed state or federal offices are ineligible.

Responsibilities of the Role

The role encompasses various duties, including:

• Attending biannual board meetings and participating in subcommittee work.
• Contributing to industry oversight by assisting the Department of Licensing in examining and licensing collection agents.
• Investigating regulatory violations.
• Recommending rules for licensing law administration.
• Engaging in public outreach through listening sessions and industry survey development.
• Help reduce barriers to licensure.

This role offers a unique platform to influence the collections industry by bringing essential regional insights and diverse viewpoints to the regulatory process.

Members also represent their local peers and advise the Department of Licensing on key industry and regulatory topics.

Applications are due April 30, 2026.

Interested professionals can apply through the governor’s website using the Apply to a Board or Commission application.