What you need to open a PNC savings account
PNC will ask for a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit. The ID can be a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. You'll also need to choose how much money to put in when you open the account — PNC's minimum deposit varies by account type, so check which savings product you're interested in before you start.
If you're opening the account in person at a branch, bring your ID and your initial deposit (cash or a check). If you're opening online, you'll enter your information into PNC's website and link a bank account or debit card to fund the deposit. Either way, PNC will verify your identity before the account becomes active.
You'll also need to decide on a few account settings: whether you want statements by mail or email, and whether you want to set up online banking access. These choices don't affect whether you're approved — they're just preferences you can change later.
Key Takeaways
- You need a government photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open a PNC savings account.
- You can open an account online through PNC's website or in person at any PNC branch during business hours.
- The minimum deposit amount depends on which savings product you choose, so confirm the requirement before you begin.
- PNC will verify your identity and Social Security number before your account becomes active, which usually takes one to two business days.
- Once your account is open, you can deposit money by visiting a branch, using an ATM, or setting up direct deposit from your employer.
Opening an account online versus in person
Opening online is faster if you already have a PNC checking account or another bank account to link for your initial deposit. You go to PNC's website, select the savings account type you want, enter your personal information, and fund the account from an existing bank account or debit card. The whole process takes about 10 to 15 minutes, and your account is usually ready to use within one business day.
Opening in person at a PNC branch takes longer but may feel more straightforward if you're new to banking or prefer to handle money face-to-face. You'll sit with a banker who walks you through the account options, answers questions, and processes your paperwork. You can bring cash or a check for your initial deposit. Bring your ID and know your Social Security number. The account is typically active the same day or the next business day.
If you don't have an existing bank account and don't want to bring cash to a branch, opening online may not work for you yet. In that case, visit a branch with cash or a check.
PNC savings account types and their differences
PNC offers several savings products, and the one you choose affects the minimum deposit, the interest rate you earn, and any monthly fees. The most common option for someone new to banking is the PNC Standard Savings Account, which has a low minimum deposit and no monthly maintenance fee if you keep a small balance.
PNC also offers PNC Virtual Wallet Savings, which is linked to a checking account and earns a higher interest rate if you meet certain conditions — usually keeping a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit. There's also PNC Money Market Account, which typically requires a higher minimum deposit but pays a higher interest rate.
Interest rates and fees change over time and may differ based on where you live. Before you open an account, visit PNC's website or ask a banker which account type makes sense for how much money you plan to keep in savings and how often you plan to withdraw it.
What happens after you submit your information
PNC will verify your identity using the information you provided — your name, address, Social Security number, and date of birth. This verification usually takes a few minutes if you're opening online, or happens while you wait if you're at a branch. PNC checks against databases to make sure the information matches and that you're not opening multiple accounts fraudulently.
Once verification is complete, your account number is assigned and your savings account is active. You can start using it right away online or at an ATM. If you opened in person, the banker will give you a temporary debit card or information about ordering one. If you opened online, you can order a debit card through your online banking portal, though it will take five to seven business days to arrive by mail.
Your initial deposit will be in your account within one to two business days, depending on how you funded it. If you deposited cash at a branch, it's usually available when ready. If you linked a bank account or debit card online, it may take one to two business days for the transfer to complete.
Setting up online banking and mobile access
Once your account is open, you can set up online banking through PNC's website or read the PNC Mobile app. Online banking lets you check your balance, transfer money between accounts, set up automatic transfers, and view your transaction history. The mobile app does the same thing from your phone.
To set up online banking, you'll create a username and password. PNC will ask you security questions to verify your identity the first time you log in. Write down your username and password somewhere safe — you'll need them every time you want to check your account online.
You don't have to set up online banking to use your savings account. You can also check your balance by calling PNC's customer service line, visiting a branch, or using an ATM. But online banking is the fastest way to see your balance and move money without leaving home.
Funding your account after it opens
After your initial deposit, you can add money to your savings account in several ways. You can visit a PNC branch and deposit cash or a check at the teller window. You can use a PNC ATM to deposit cash or checks — most ATMs have an envelope slot for checks and a cash slot. You can also set up direct deposit from your employer, which automatically moves a portion of your paycheck into savings on payday.
If your money is at another bank, you can transfer it to your PNC savings account using online banking. Log into your PNC account, select "Transfer Money," and link your other bank account. The transfer usually takes one to three business days. Some banks offer faster transfers, but one to three days is standard.
You can also have someone else deposit money into your account if they know your account number and routing number. These numbers appear on checks you order, or you can find them in your online banking portal or by calling PNC customer service.
Fees and things that cost money
PNC's Standard Savings Account has no monthly maintenance fee as long as you keep a minimum balance — usually $25 or $100, depending on the account type. If your balance drops below that, PNC may charge a monthly fee of $5 to $10. Check the specific account you're opening to see what the minimum is.
Other fees you might encounter: PNC charges a fee if you withdraw money more than a certain number of times per month (usually six free withdrawals, then $10 per withdrawal after that). If you overdraft your account — spend more money than you have — PNC charges an overdraft fee, typically $35 per transaction. If you use an ATM that's not owned by PNC, the other bank may charge you a fee, and PNC may charge you a fee too.
You won't be charged a fee just for opening the account or for keeping money in it, as long as you meet the minimum balance requirement. Ask the banker or check PNC's website for the full fee schedule for the account type you choose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a PNC savings account if I don't have a Social Security number?
No. PNC requires a Social Security number to open any account. If you're a non-citizen without a Social Security number, you may be able to open an account with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), but you'll need to visit a branch in person and bring documentation. Call PNC customer service or visit a branch to ask about ITIN accounts in your area.
How long does it take to open an account online?
The process itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. Your account is usually active within one business day. If you're funding it from another bank account, the deposit may take one to two additional business days to arrive.
What's the difference between a savings account and a checking account?
A savings account is meant for money you're keeping and not spending regularly — it earns interest, which is a small amount of money PNC pays you for letting them use your money. A checking account is for everyday spending — you get a debit card and checks to pay bills. Many people have both.
Can I close my PNC savings account if I change my mind?
Yes. You can close your account by visiting a branch, calling PNC customer service, or using online banking. PNC will send any remaining balance to you by check or transfer it to another account you specify. There's no fee to close an account.
What if I lose my debit card or forget my online banking password?
Call PNC customer service to report a lost or stolen card — they'll cancel it and order a replacement. To reset your online banking password, use the "Forgot Password" link on PNC's login page. You'll answer security questions to verify your identity, then create a new password.