Embodiments are directed to methods for routing messages using logically independent recipient identifiers and server computers operable to implement those methods. In one embodiment, an authorization request message is received at the server computer from a sending institution. The authorization request message comprises a non-financial institution identifier and a recipient identifier separate from the non-financial institution identifier, the non-financial institution identifier identifying a non-financial institution, the recipient identifier associated with a recipient, wherein the authorization request message requests authorization for a transaction between a sender and the recipient. The server computer then determines the non-financial institution from a number of different non-financial institutions, routes the authorization request message to the non-financial institution, and receives, from the non-financial institution, an authorization response message, the authorization response message indicating whether or not the transaction is approved or not approved.