A nine-digit code identifies financial institutions within the United States and is essential for processing various financial transactions. This code, used by the Federal Reserve to process Fedwire funds transfers, ACH (Automated Clearing House) transactions, and other automated transfers, ensures that funds are routed to the correct bank or credit union. A specific financial cooperative in southwestern Kansas utilizes such a number. Understanding this identifier is crucial when setting up direct deposits, electronic payments, or wire transfers to or from accounts held at that institution.
This identifier plays a vital role in securing and streamlining electronic banking operations. It allows for efficient fund transfers, minimizes errors in payment processing, and helps maintain the integrity of the overall financial system. The existence of these unique codes has allowed for increased speed and reliability in banking transactions since their inception. Historically, the need for such a system arose from the growing volume of checks and electronic payments, creating a necessity for a standardized identification method.