You can add an authorized user to most PNC accounts through their online banking portal, but the process depends on the account type and whether you're adding a co-owner or just an authorized user
PNC allows you to add someone to your checking or savings account in two ways: as a co-owner (who has equal rights and access) or as an authorized user (who can use the account but doesn't own it). Most account changes start in PNC's online banking system, but some require a phone call or a visit to a branch. The exact steps and what's available online depend on your account type and the relationship between you and the person you're adding.
If you're trying to add someone online right now, log into your PNC account, look for "Account Services," "Manage Account," or "Account Settings" — the exact label varies by account type. From there, you should see options to add a user. If that option doesn't appear, or if you're adding a co-owner rather than just an authorized user, you'll need to call PNC or visit a branch in person.
Key Takeaways
- Adding an authorized user online is usually available through PNC's online banking portal under Account Services or Account Settings, but adding a co-owner typically requires a phone call or branch visit.
- An authorized user can access the account and make transactions, but a co-owner has equal legal rights and both names appear on the account title.
- You'll need the person's full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security number or Tax ID to add them to the account.
- PNC may require the person being added to verify their identity, either online or by visiting a branch with a government-issued ID.
- Changes to account ownership or authorized users can take a few business days to process after you submit the request.
What you can do online versus what requires a branch visit
PNC's online banking system lets you add an authorized user to most checking and savings accounts without leaving home. Log in, navigate to Account Services or a similar section, and look for "Add User," "Manage Users," or "Account Access." The exact wording depends on your account type and when your account was opened.
Adding a co-owner — someone whose name goes on the account title and who has equal ownership rights — almost always requires you to call PNC at the number on the back of your card or visit a branch. This is because co-ownership changes the legal structure of the account and typically requires both people to sign documents or verify their identity in person. Some branches will let you start the process online and finish it at the branch, but you cannot complete it entirely through the website.
If you're unsure whether you want to add a co-owner or just an authorized user, remember this: a co-owner's name is on the account, they can close it or remove you, and creditors can go after the account to collect their debts. An authorized user can use the account but has no ownership stake and cannot change the account structure.
Information you'll need before you start
Gather these details before you log in to add someone:
- The person's full legal name (as it appears on their ID)
- Their date of birth
- Their Social Security number or Tax ID
- Their current mailing address
- Their phone number and email address (if you're adding them as an authorized user)
PNC will use this information to verify the person's identity and set up their access. If you don't have all of this information, you won't be able to complete the request online. You can still call PNC or visit a branch, but having these details ready will speed up the process either way.
How the identity verification process works
After you submit a request to add someone online, PNC will typically send them a verification link via email or text message. They'll need to click that link, answer security questions, and confirm their identity. This usually takes a few minutes and can happen when ready after you submit the request.
If the person cannot verify their identity online — or if PNC's system flags the request for any reason — they may be asked to visit a PNC branch in person with a government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID). This step protects both you and PNC from fraud and unauthorized account access.
Once the person verifies their identity, PNC will process the request. This typically takes one to three business days, though it can be faster if both of you complete verification on the same day.
What happens after someone is added to your account
Once the person is added as an authorized user, they can:
- Access the account through PNC's online banking portal or mobile app using their own login
- View transaction history and account balance
- Make transfers and payments (unless you restrict these permissions)
- Receive a debit card linked to the account
If you added them as a co-owner, they have all of the above plus the ability to add or remove other users, change account settings, and close the account entirely. They also have equal legal responsibility for any overdrafts or fees.
You can remove an authorized user at any time through the same online portal where you added them. Removing a co-owner requires a phone call or branch visit, and both of you may need to agree to the change.
If you cannot find the option to add a user online
Some PNC accounts — particularly older accounts, business accounts, or accounts with special features — do not allow you to add users through the online portal. If you log in and don't see an option to add a user, call PNC at the number on the back of your card. A representative can tell you whether your account type supports online user additions and can walk you through the process over the phone.
You can also visit a PNC branch in person. Bring your ID and the person's ID if they're coming with you. A banker can add an authorized user or start the co-owner process on the spot, though co-ownership changes may still require a follow-up call or additional paperwork.
Wait times for phone support vary, but PNC typically answers within 10 to 15 minutes during business hours. If you're calling about adding a user, have the person's information ready so the representative can move quickly.
Common reasons the request might be denied or delayed
PNC may decline or delay your request if the person's identity cannot be verified, if there's a mismatch between the information you provided and what's on file with credit bureaus, or if the account has restrictions (such as a freeze or a legal hold). If this happens, PNC will contact you to explain why and what you can do next.
Occasionally, a request gets stuck in processing if the person doesn't complete their identity verification step. If it's been more than a few business days and you haven't heard back, call PNC to check the status. The representative can see where the request is in the queue and can sometimes push it through faster if there's a straightforward fix.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add someone to my account if they don't have a Social Security number?
PNC requires either a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to add someone to an account. If the person has neither, they cannot be added as an authorized user or co-owner. You may want to contact PNC directly to ask about exceptions, though they are rare.
What's the difference between adding someone online versus at a branch?
Adding an authorized user online is faster and more convenient — it usually takes one to three business days. Adding a co-owner or adding someone at a branch may require more paperwork and identity verification in person, but the end result is the same. The branch option is useful if you prefer to speak with someone or if your account doesn't support online additions.
Can the person I'm adding see my account before they verify their identity?
No. They cannot access the account or see any transactions until they complete identity verification and PNC processes the request. Until then, they'll only see a pending invitation or notification in their email or text message.
If I add someone as an authorized user, can they remove themselves from the account?
Authorized users typically cannot remove themselves through the online portal — only the account owner can do that. If the authorized user wants to be removed, they can call PNC and ask, but PNC will likely require the account owner's permission before removing them.
How long does it take for someone to get a debit card after being added to the account?
PNC usually mails a debit card within five to seven business days after the person is added. The card is sent to the address on file. In the meantime, the authorized user can access the account online and make transfers, but they cannot make in-person purchases or withdraw cash until the card arrives.