What you need to open a PNC savings account

PNC lets you open a savings account online, by phone, or in person at a branch. You will need a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit. The deposit amount depends on the account type — some PNC savings accounts require $25 to open, while others require $500 or more. You can check the current minimum on PNC's website or by calling 1-800-762-4000 before you start.

If you are opening online, you will also need a valid email address and a way to verify your identity — usually a debit card or checking account number. PNC uses this to confirm you are who you say you are. If you do not have either, opening in person at a branch is faster.

You do not need an existing PNC account to open a savings account. If you already have a PNC checking account, the process is shorter because PNC already has your information on file.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a photo ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit amount that varies by account type, typically between $25 and $500.
  • Online opening requires a valid email and a way to verify your identity, such as a debit card or existing bank account number.
  • Opening in person at a PNC branch takes one visit and does not require pre-verification, making it the fastest option if you have a nearby location.
  • The entire process usually takes 5 to 10 minutes online or about 15 minutes in a branch, and your account is active the same day.

Opening a PNC savings account online

Go to pnc.com and select "Open an Account" from the homepage. Choose "Savings Account" and then pick which type of savings account you want — PNC offers several, including a basic savings account and higher-yield options. Read the details for each because interest rates and minimum balances differ.

Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, address, phone number, and Social Security number. PNC will ask where you work and your employment status, though you can skip this if you prefer. Next, you will verify your identity by providing a debit card number or checking account number from any bank. PNC will make two small deposits to that account (usually under $1 each) within one to two business days, and you will return to PNC's website to confirm those amounts. This proves the account is yours.

Once identity verification is complete, you will set up your initial deposit. You can transfer money from another bank account or provide a debit card to fund the account. After you submit everything, PNC will tell you whether your account is approved — most approvals happen when ready, though some take up to one business day. Your savings account number appears on screen once approved, and you can start using the account when ready.

Opening a PNC savings account in person

Find your nearest PNC branch using the branch locator on pnc.com. Bring your photo ID, Social Security number, and the initial deposit in cash or a check. A PNC representative will walk you through the account setup, answer questions about account features, and complete the paperwork in front of you.

In-person opening skips the identity verification step because the branch employee can see your ID directly. This makes it the fastest route if you have a PNC branch nearby — the whole process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. Your account is active when ready, and you receive a debit card process on the spot if you want one (though you can also request a card online later).

Opening a PNC savings account by phone

Call PNC at 1-800-762-4000 and tell the representative you want to open a savings account. They will ask for the same information as the online process: your name, date of birth, address, Social Security number, and employment details. You will also need to verify your identity by providing a debit card or checking account number from another bank.

The phone representative will explain the different savings account options and help you choose one based on your needs. Once you decide, they will set up the account and arrange your initial deposit — you can authorize a transfer from another bank account or provide a debit card number. The representative will give you your account number before you hang up, and the account is usually active the same day.

What happens after you open your account

Your PNC savings account is ready to use when ready after approval. You can transfer money in from other banks, deposit checks using PNC's mobile app, or visit a branch to deposit cash. PNC will mail you a debit card if you requested one — this typically arrives within 5 to 10 business days.

You can manage your account online through pnc.com or through the PNC Mobile app, which is available on iOS and Android. You can check your balance, transfer money between accounts, set up automatic transfers, and view your interest earnings. Interest is calculated daily and paid monthly, though the rate varies depending on which savings account you opened.

If you have questions about your account after opening, you can call PNC customer service at 1-800-762-4000, visit a branch, or use the chat feature on pnc.com. PNC also offers account alerts through email or text message if you want to be notified when your balance drops below a certain amount or when a deposit is made.

Choosing between PNC savings account types

PNC offers several savings account options, and the right one depends on how much money you plan to keep in savings and how often you will add to it. A basic savings account has a low minimum deposit and lower interest rates. A high-yield savings account pays more interest but may require a higher minimum balance or have other conditions.

Before you open an account, compare the current interest rate, minimum balance requirement, and monthly fees for each type. PNC's website shows these details for each account, and you can also ask a representative by phone or in person. The interest rate can change, so what matters most is understanding the current rate and whether it meets your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a PNC savings account if I do not 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, you can use that instead. Contact PNC directly at 1-800-762-4000 to discuss your situation, as some branches may have additional options.

How long does it take to open a PNC savings account?

Online opening usually takes 5 to 10 minutes, though identity verification can add one to two business days if PNC needs to confirm deposits to another account. In-person opening at a branch is fastest — typically 10 to 15 minutes, and your account is active when ready. Phone opening takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

What is the minimum deposit to open a PNC savings account?

The minimum deposit varies by account type. Some PNC savings accounts require $25, while others require $500 or more. Check pnc.com or call 1-800-762-4000 to confirm the current minimum for the specific account you want to open.

Do I need an existing PNC account to open a savings account?

No. You can open a PNC savings account without having a checking account or any other PNC account. However, if you already have a PNC account, the process is faster because PNC already has your information.

Can I open a PNC savings account for someone else?

You cannot open an account in someone else's name. However, you can open a joint savings account where both people are account owners, or a custodial account if you are opening for a minor. Contact PNC to discuss which option fits your situation.