You can open a PNC savings account online without visiting a branch, using just your computer or phone
PNC's online account opening takes about 15 minutes and requires a valid government ID, a Social Security number, and a way to fund your account (a debit card, another bank account, or a wire transfer). You do not need to be an existing PNC customer. The process happens entirely on PNC's website — you answer questions about yourself, verify your identity, choose your account type, and set up a way to deposit money. Your account is usually ready to use the same day or within one business day.
The main thing to understand upfront: PNC offers several types of savings accounts with different interest rates and minimum balance requirements. The account you choose affects how much interest you earn and whether you pay monthly fees. Before you start, it helps to know which one fits your situation.
Key Takeaways
- You need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit method before you begin the online process.
- PNC offers multiple savings account types — Virtual Wallet Savings, Performance Savings, and Money Market Account — each with different interest rates and balance requirements.
- The online process takes about 15 minutes and your account is typically active the same day or next business day.
- You can fund your new account when ready using a debit card, transfer from another bank, or wire transfer.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before you open your browser. You will need a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. PNC will ask you to verify information from it during the process. You will also need your Social Security number, which PNC uses to check your identity and run a background check.
You need a way to fund your account with an initial deposit. PNC accepts deposits from a debit card, a checking or savings account at another bank, or a wire transfer. If you are using a debit card, have it ready. If you are transferring from another bank account, you will need the account number and routing number from that bank — you can usually find both on a check or by logging into your other bank's website.
Finally, decide which type of savings account you want. PNC's main options are Virtual Wallet Savings (no monthly fee, lower interest rate), Performance Savings (monthly fee waived if you maintain a minimum balance, higher interest rate), and Money Market Account (higher minimum balance, highest interest rate). The interest rates and minimum balance requirements change, so check PNC's website for current terms before you choose.
The step-by-step process
Go to PNC's website and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually near the top of the page. Click it and select "Savings Account." PNC will ask you to choose whether you want to open an account as an individual or as a joint account with someone else. Select the option that matches your situation.
Next, enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. PNC uses this to verify who you are. Then you will enter your Social Security number. PNC runs a background check using this information — this is standard practice for all banks and does not hurt your credit score.
PNC will ask you to verify your identity by answering questions about your personal history — things like previous addresses you have lived at or accounts you have held. Answer these honestly based on what you remember. If you get several wrong, PNC may ask you to verify your identity a different way, such as uploading a photo of your ID.
Once your identity is verified, you will choose which savings account type you want and review the account terms. Then you will set up your initial deposit. Choose your funding method (debit card, transfer from another bank, or wire), enter the details, and confirm the amount. Most deposits of $25 or more are processed when ready, though transfers from other banks may take one to two business days to show up.
Review everything one more time, agree to PNC's terms and conditions, and submit. You will see a confirmation screen with your new account number. PNC will also send a confirmation email to the address you provided.
What happens after you submit
Your account is usually active when ready, though PNC may place a temporary hold on deposits from another bank while they verify the transfer. You can log into your account right away using your email address and a password you create during the process. Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
If you funded your account with a debit card, the money is typically available the same day. If you transferred from another bank account, the transfer usually takes one to two business days. Wire transfers are fastest — they typically arrive within a few hours.
Once your account is open, you can set up automatic transfers, link it to other accounts, or adjust your account settings through PNC's online banking platform or mobile app. If you have questions after opening, PNC's customer service is available by phone, chat, or in person at any branch.
Choosing between PNC's savings account types
Virtual Wallet Savings is PNC's basic savings account with no monthly maintenance fee. It earns interest, though the rate is typically lower than PNC's other savings options. There is no minimum balance requirement, so this account works well if you are starting with a small deposit or want to keep things straightforward.
Performance Savings earns a higher interest rate but charges a monthly fee unless you maintain a minimum balance (the amount changes and you should check PNC's current terms). If you plan to keep a larger balance in savings, this account usually pays more interest than the fee costs you.
Money Market Account offers the highest interest rate but requires a higher minimum balance and charges a monthly fee if you fall below it. This account is best if you have a substantial amount to save and want to maximize interest earnings.
Interest rates vary based on how much money you have in the account and current market conditions. PNC's website shows the current rates for each account type, so you can compare before you open.
Common issues and how to fix them
If PNC cannot verify your identity automatically, you may be asked to upload a photo of your government ID. Take a clear photo of the front and back of your ID in good lighting, and upload it through the link PNC provides. This usually takes a few minutes to process.
If your debit card deposit is declined, double-check that you entered the card number, expiration date, and security code correctly. If it is still declined, try funding your account with a transfer from another bank instead, or call PNC to ask why the card was rejected.
If you do not receive a confirmation email, check your spam or junk folder — sometimes banks' emails end up there. You can also log into your account directly using your email and password to confirm it was created.
If you need to cancel an account shortly after opening it, you can do so through your online banking portal or by calling PNC. There is no penalty for closing a new account, though any pending deposits may take a few days to process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be an existing PNC customer to open a savings account online?
No. You can open a savings account with PNC even if you have never banked with them before. The online process works the same whether you are new or existing.
What is the minimum deposit to open a PNC savings account?
PNC does not require a minimum opening deposit for Virtual Wallet Savings. Performance Savings and Money Market Account may have minimum balance requirements to avoid monthly fees — check PNC's website for current amounts, as these change.
Can I open a joint savings account online with someone else?
Yes. During the online process, you can choose to open a joint account. Both account holders will need to verify their identity, and both will receive access to the account. PNC will guide you through adding the second person's information.
How long does it take for money to show up after I fund my account?
Debit card deposits usually appear the same day. Transfers from another bank take one to two business days. Wire transfers are fastest, typically arriving within a few hours. PNC will show you an estimated arrival date when you set up the deposit.
Can I change my account type after I open it?
Yes. You can convert your savings account to a different PNC savings account type through your online banking portal or by calling PNC. There is no fee to switch, though you may need to meet the minimum balance requirement for the new account type.