If you’ve ever set up direct deposit, paid a bill online, or transferred money between accounts at different banks, you’ve likely been asked for your bank’s routing number.

For those who are wondering, ours is 091400020. You can find it on our website, your First National Bank checks, and various other places.

But aside from that, what is a routing number? Let’s talk about this nine-digit mystery that seemingly holds the key to your bank account.

Routing number basics

A routing number is a code made up of nine numbers, and it identifies the financial institution where your account is held.

Each financial institution has their own unique routing number.

In the United States, the American Bankers Association (ABA) issues these numbers. That’s why they’re also called ABA routing numbers.

Think of a routing number as your bank’s “address” in the banking system. It ensures that money is sent to (or withdrawn from) the correct institution during transactions.

What is a routing number used for?

Whether you’re starting a new job or moving into a new apartment, the time will come when you need your bank’s routing number.

Some instances where you might need to provide it include:

• Setting up direct deposit for your paycheck or government benefits, such as Social Security
• Paying bills via ACH transfer
• Linking your bank account to apps like Venmo, PayPal, or other payment services
• Wiring money domestically
• Ordering paper checks

Why they matter

Routing numbers are a small detail that play a big role in sending your money where it needs to go. Without the correct number, your transaction could be delayed, misdirected, or even returned.

This is especially frustrating if you’re sending time-sensitive payments like a mortgage or tuition bill.

They also help keep the banking system organized and secure by ensuring that every financial transaction is directed to the right place.

Routing number vs. account number

The two often get confused, but they serve different purposes.

A routing number identifies where the money is going (your financial institution). An account number identifies who the money is going to (your specific account at that bank)

Both are needed for most electronic transactions, similar to including a street address and a house number when mailing a letter.

How to find a routing number

Aside from this blog post, there are a few different places where you can find ours.

On Your Checks

Take a look at one of your First National Bank checks, and it’s the first number in the bottom left corner.

All of our checks have 091400020 in that spot.

The second number is your account number, which is unique to you, and the third number is your check number, which is different on each check.

On Our Website

We list our routing number under our Quick Links tab (top right corner of your screen) for easy reference.

It’s also located in the footer of our website.

In Our Social Media Bios

Look up any of our social media profiles — Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, or YouTube — and you’ll find ours listed in the bio.

Frequently asked questions about routing numbers

Here are quick answers to a few other common questions:

• How many digits are in a routing number?
  • Nine.
• Can a bank have multiple routing numbers?
  • Larger banks can have multiple, sometimes based on location or transaction type.
• Do routing numbers change?
  • It’s not a common occurrence, but they can change under specific circumstances, such as a merger, acquisition, or technology update.
• Do international banks have routing numbers?
  • Routing numbers are issued by the ABA and only used within the United States.