How to Open a Bank Account at PNC

What you need to open a PNC account

PNC will ask for a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and your current address. You'll also need an initial deposit — the amount varies by account type, but many checking accounts require $25 to $100 to open. If you're opening an account online or by phone, you may be able to use a debit card or bank transfer instead of cash.

If you don't have a photo ID yet, PNC can sometimes work with a passport, state ID, or military ID. Call your local branch first to ask what they accept — requirements can differ slightly between locations. If you're under 18, a parent or guardian will need to be present and provide their own ID and Social Security number.

Have your most recent address handy, even if you just moved. PNC uses this to verify your identity and set up your account correctly. If your address is very new (less than a few weeks), bring a utility bill or lease to confirm it.

Key Takeaways

You need a photo ID, Social Security number, current address, and an opening deposit of $25 to $100 for most checking accounts.
PNC offers three main ways to open an account: in person at a branch, online through their website, or by phone with a representative.
Opening in person takes about 15 to 30 minutes and gives you a debit card on the spot; online and phone accounts take one to three business days to set up.
If you have no credit history or a past banking problem, ask about PNC's second-chance accounts, which have different requirements.

Opening an account in person at a PNC branch

Walk into any PNC branch during business hours with your ID, Social Security number, and opening deposit. Tell the representative you want to open a new account and say whether you want checking, savings, or both. They'll ask you questions about how you plan to use the account — whether you expect direct deposits, how many checks you'll write, and whether you want overdraft protection.

The representative will fill out the account paperwork with you, review the account terms, and answer questions about fees. Most accounts come with a debit card, which they can issue to you when ready. You'll leave with your card, a temporary PIN, and instructions for setting up online banking. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Bring your opening deposit in cash, a check, or ask if you can transfer money from another bank account. If you transfer from another bank, the money may take one to three business days to arrive, so your account won't be fully funded right away.

Opening an account online

Go to pnc.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually on the homepage. You'll answer questions about the type of account you want, your personal information, and your opening deposit method. PNC will ask you to verify your identity by uploading a photo of your ID — take a clear picture of both the front and back.

The online process takes about 10 to 15 minutes to complete. After you submit, PNC reviews your information, which usually takes one to three business days. You'll receive an email or text when your account is ready. At that point, you can log in to online banking, set up a PIN, and order a debit card if you don't already have one.

For your opening deposit, you can link a bank account from another institution and transfer money, or use a debit card. If you transfer from another bank, the funds arrive within one to three business days. Your account is active when ready, but you won't be able to use your debit card until it arrives in the mail, which takes five to seven business days.

Opening an account by phone

Call PNC at 1-800-762-0623 and tell the representative you want to open a new account. They'll walk you through the same questions as the online process: account type, personal information, and opening deposit. Have your ID and Social Security number ready so they can verify your identity over the phone.

The phone call usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. After you hang up, PNC will send you a confirmation email with your new account number and temporary login information for online banking. Your account is active within one business day, and your debit card arrives in the mail within five to seven business days.

You can fund the account by phone transfer from another bank, or the representative can give you instructions to mail a check. Transfers from other banks take one to three business days to post.

Account types and which one to choose

PNC offers several checking and savings accounts aimed at different needs. Virtual Wallet Checking is their main checking account — it has no monthly fee if you keep a minimum balance (usually $500) or set up direct deposit. Performance Savings is their basic savings account, also with no monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance.

If you're new to banking or have had problems with overdrafts, ask about PNC Cash Management or their second-chance accounts. These have lower minimum balances and fewer fees, though they may limit the number of transactions you can make each month. The representative can explain which account fits your situation best.

All accounts come with online banking, mobile app access, and a debit card. Most checking accounts include a checkbook, though you can order one if it doesn't come automatically. Ask about any promotional offers — PNC sometimes waives the opening deposit or offers a cash bonus for new customers.

What happens after your account opens

Once your account is active, you can log into PNC's website or mobile app using your online banking username and password. Set up a four-digit PIN for your debit card and choose whether you want overdraft protection — this lets PNC cover small purchases if your balance goes negative, though you'll pay a fee.

Your debit card arrives in the mail within five to seven business days. When it arrives, call the number on the back to set up it before you use it. You can also set up direct deposit right away by giving your employer or benefits provider your account number and routing number — PNC will provide both in your account welcome materials.

If you have questions after opening, you can visit a branch, call customer service at 1-800-762-0623, or use the chat feature in the mobile app. PNC also offers free financial literacy resources online if you're new to banking.

If you have past banking problems

If you've been denied a bank account before, had an account closed, or have unpaid fees from another bank, tell PNC upfront. They check ChexSystems, a database that banks use to see your banking history. A past problem doesn't automatically disqualify you — PNC has accounts designed for people rebuilding their banking relationship.

Ask specifically about second-chance accounts or accounts with lower minimum balances and fewer features. These accounts may have monthly fees, transaction limits, or require you to maintain a higher balance, but they're designed to let you prove you can manage an account responsibly. After six months to a year of good account management, you can often move to a standard account with better terms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a PNC account if I don't have a Social Security number?

PNC requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open an account. If you have an ITIN, bring it instead. If you don't have either, you'll need to obtain one before opening an account — contact the Social Security Administration or IRS for information about how the process works.

What if I don't have a photo ID?

PNC requires a government-issued photo ID. If you don't have one, you can explore for a state ID at your local DMV or get a passport through your state or federal government. Some branches may accept other forms of ID — call ahead and ask what they can work with while you're getting an official ID.

How much money do I need to keep in my account to avoid fees?

Most PNC checking accounts waive the monthly fee if you keep a minimum balance (usually $500) or set up direct deposit. Savings accounts typically require $300 to $500. If you can't maintain the minimum, ask about accounts with lower requirements or no minimum balance — PNC has options for different situations.

Can I open an account for someone else?

No, you must open an account in your own name with your own ID and Social Security number. If you want to add someone else to the account later (like a family member), you can do that after the account is open by visiting a branch with both IDs present.

What if I want to close my account later?

You can close a PNC account anytime by visiting a branch, calling customer service, or using online banking. Bring any remaining checks and your debit card. PNC will close the account and send any remaining balance to you by check or transfer to another account you specify.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.