WaFd Bank, formerly known as Washington Federal, is a regional bank headquartered in Seattle, Washington. It was founded on April 24, 1917, as Ballard Savings and Loan Association with the goal of providing home loans to the local community[1][5]. Over the years, WaFd Bank has expanded its operations to include over 200 offices across nine western states: Arizona, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington, and recently California following the acquisition of Luther Burbank Corporation[1][3][5]. ### Key Features and Services - Banking Services: WaFd Bank offers a range of services including checking, savings, mortgages, personal loans, credit cards, and commercial banking solutions[2][3]. - Account Options: It provides various deposit accounts such as savings accounts, money market accounts, and certificates of deposit (CDs). The savings account requires a minimum opening deposit of $25, but accounts below $100 incur a monthly fee[3]. - Convenience Features: Customers have access to free online and mobile banking, a Visa debit card, and the MoneyPass ATM network with over 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs[3]. - Community Involvement: WaFd Bank is committed to community development through the Washington Federal Foundation, which supports local nonprofits[5]. ### Awards and Recognition WaFd Bank has been recognized as one of America's Best Big Banks and Best-in-State Banks by publications like Newsweek and Forbes[4][5]. ### Recent Developments In 2024, WaFd Bank acquired Luther Burbank Corporation, expanding its presence into California[1]. This move marks a significant step in the bank's growth strategy across the western United States.