Washington § 19.16.430 - Violations — Operating agency without a license — Penalty — Return of fees or compensation.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 19.16.430 — Violations — Operating agency without a license — Penalty — Return of fees or compensation., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 19.16.430. Violations — Operating agency without a license — Penalty — Return of fees or compensation.

(1) Any person who knowingly operates as a collection agency or out-of-state collection agency without a license or knowingly aids and abets such violation is punishable by a fine not exceeding five hundred dollars or by imprisonment not exceeding one year or both.
(2) Any person who operates as a collection agency or out-of-state collection agency in the state of Washington without a valid license issued pursuant to this chapter shall not charge or receive any fee or compensation on any moneys received or collected while operating without a license or on any moneys received or collected while operating with a license but received or collected as a result of his, her, or its acts as a collection agency or out-of-state collection agency while not licensed hereunder. All such moneys collected or received shall be forthwith returned to the owners of the accounts on which the moneys were paid.
[ 2011 c 336 s 527; 1994 c 195 s 10; 1973 1st ex.s. c 20 s 6; 1971 ex.s. c 253 s 34.]

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 19.16.430

What does Revised Code of Washington § 19.16.430 cover?

Section 19.16.430 ("Violations — Operating agency without a license — Penalty — Return of fees or compensation.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 19.16.430?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 19.16.430" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 19.16.430 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Washington.