Yes, you can open a PNC savings account entirely online
PNC allows you to open a savings account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes and requires a valid government ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit method. You will have a working account by the end of the day in most cases, though PNC may place a temporary hold on deposits while they verify your identity.
The account opens in your name when ready, but you cannot use the debit card or make transfers until PNC completes identity verification, which usually happens within 24 hours. If you already have a PNC checking account, the process is faster because PNC already has your information on file.
Key Takeaways
- You need a valid government ID, your Social Security number, and a way to fund the account—either a linked external bank account or a debit card.
- The online process takes 10 to 15 minutes and you will receive account details when ready, though full access may take up to 24 hours.
- PNC requires an initial deposit to open the account; the minimum varies by account type and changes periodically, so check the current requirement when you start.
- If you are an existing PNC customer, verification is faster because the bank already has your identity documents.
- You can set up direct deposit and bill pay during the process, but transfers to external accounts may not work until identity verification is complete.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before opening your browser: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. PNC will ask for your address during the process, and if it does not match your ID, they may ask for a recent utility bill or lease to confirm where you live.
You will also need a way to fund the account. You can link an external bank account and transfer money from it, or use a debit card to make an initial deposit. If you are linking an external account, have your routing number and account number ready—you can find these on a check or by logging into your other bank's website.
The minimum opening deposit varies. PNC has changed these requirements in the past, so the amount you need to deposit may differ from what you see quoted elsewhere. Check the current requirement on PNC's website before you begin, because the process will tell you the exact amount needed for the account type you choose.
The steps to open the account online
Start at PNC's website and select "Open an Account." You will choose between a few savings account types—PNC offers a basic savings account and higher-yield options that require larger balances. Select the one that matches your needs and click to begin the process.
Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email. PNC will ask whether you are a new customer or already have an account with them. If you already bank with PNC, select that option—the process will pull your existing information and move faster.
Next, you will verify your identity. PNC uses an automated system that checks your information against public records. If the system recognizes you when ready, you move forward. If there is any mismatch, PNC may ask you to upload a photo of your ID or answer security questions based on your credit history. This step usually takes a few minutes.
Then you will choose how to fund the account. Select either "Link a Bank Account" or "Use a Debit Card." If you link a bank account, enter your routing number and account number. If you use a debit card, enter the card details and the amount you want to deposit. Complete the deposit, and your account is open.
What happens after you submit the process
PNC will send you a confirmation email within minutes with your new account number and temporary login credentials. You can log into PNC's online banking when ready and see your account balance. However, PNC places a temporary hold on deposits while they complete identity verification, which usually takes 24 hours but can take up to 3 business days in some cases.
During this verification period, you can view your account and set up bill pay or direct deposit, but you cannot transfer money to external accounts or use a debit card if one is issued. Once verification is complete, PNC will send you another email confirming that your account is fully active.
If you funded the account with a debit card, the charge will appear on that card when ready. If you linked a bank account, the transfer may take 1 to 3 business days to appear in your PNC account, depending on your other bank's processing time.
Debit card and online access timing
PNC will mail a debit card to the address you provided during the process. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. You cannot use the card until it arrives and you set up it, which you can do through PNC's mobile app or website.
Online and mobile access is available when ready after you open the account. You can log in with the temporary credentials PNC sent you, or you can set up your own username and password right away. Mobile app access works the same day in most cases.
If verification takes longer or fails
PNC's automated verification system works for most people, but if it cannot confirm your identity, PNC will contact you by phone or email with next steps. This usually means uploading a photo of your ID or answering additional security questions. Respond as quickly as you can—delays in verification can slow down your access to the full account.
In rare cases, PNC may decline to open the account. This can happen if there is a problem with your Social Security number, if you have a history of fraud or account abuse with PNC, or if you cannot verify your identity through any method PNC offers. If this happens, PNC will explain the reason in writing.
Existing PNC customers opening a second savings account
If you already have a PNC checking account, opening a savings account online is faster. PNC already has your identity documents and verified address on file, so the automated verification step is usually skipped. You can complete the entire process in 5 to 10 minutes, and your account will be fully active within hours instead of a full business day.
You will still need to choose a funding method and make an initial deposit. If you have a PNC checking account, you can transfer money from that account to fund the new savings account, which is often faster than linking an external bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a PNC savings account if I do not have a Social Security number?
No. PNC requires a valid Social Security number to open any deposit account. If you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, you will need to visit a branch in person and speak with a banker about your options, as the online process does not accept ITINs.
What if I do not have a government ID?
The online process requires a government-issued ID. If you do not have one, you will need to visit a PNC branch in person with whatever identification you do have. A banker can help you determine whether you can open an account and what documents they will accept.
Can I open a savings account for someone else, like my child?
No. The online process only allows you to open an account in your own name. For a minor, you will need to visit a branch in person. PNC offers youth savings accounts that require a parent or guardian to co-own the account, but these must be opened at a branch.
How much money do I have to deposit to open the account?
The minimum opening deposit varies by account type and changes periodically. Check PNC's website for the current requirement before you start the process. The process will show you the exact amount needed for the specific account you are opening.
What if the online process says my identity cannot be verified?
PNC will contact you by phone or email with instructions on how to verify your identity manually. This usually means uploading a photo of your ID or answering security questions. If you cannot complete verification online, you can visit a PNC branch in person with your ID and open the account there.