Yes, you can open most PNC accounts online without visiting a branch

PNC lets you open a checking or savings account entirely through their website or mobile app. You will not need to go to a physical branch, though some account types require a video call with a representative. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes if you have the right documents ready.

The accounts you can open online include PNC Virtual Wallet (their main checking product), regular savings accounts, and money market accounts. If you want a CD (certificate of deposit), you can set one up online too. A few specialty products—like certain business accounts or accounts tied to investment services—may require a phone call or branch visit, but the standard personal accounts work through your computer or phone.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit amount (which varies by account type) to start the process online.
  • PNC will ask you to verify your identity during signup, sometimes through a video call with a representative, which takes a few extra minutes.
  • Your account can be funded immediately after approval using a debit card, bank transfer, or wire transfer.
  • If you already have a PNC account, opening a second account online is faster because PNC already has your information on file.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you open your browser: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and your current address. PNC will verify all three during the signup process.

You will also need an initial deposit. The minimum varies by account type—PNC Virtual Wallet checking has no minimum deposit requirement, but some savings products require $25 or more to open. Have a debit card, bank account number, or wire transfer information ready so you can fund the account right away. If you do not have an initial deposit method available, you can complete the account setup and add money later, though some features may be limited until you do.

The online signup process step by step

Start at pnc.com or open the PNC Mobile App and select "Open an Account." Choose the account type you want—checking, savings, or money market. Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email.

PNC will then ask you to verify your identity. Most of the time this happens automatically through a database check. If PNC cannot verify you instantly, they will ask you to do a video call with a representative. This call is brief—usually under five minutes—and you just need to show your ID to the camera. Once verified, you will set up a username and password, review the account terms, and choose your initial deposit method.

After you submit, your account is typically active within minutes. You will receive a confirmation email with your account number and routing number. Debit cards are ordered automatically and arrive in 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account number to set up direct deposit or transfers before your card arrives.

Identity verification and video calls

PNC uses automated verification for most new accounts. The system checks your information against databases to confirm you are who you say you are. This usually takes seconds and you will not notice it happening.

If the automated check cannot verify you—which can happen if your information does not match records exactly, or if you have recently moved—PNC will prompt you to schedule a video call. You will see this request during signup, and you can choose a time that works for you. The representative will ask to see your ID, confirm your address, and may ask a few security questions. You do not need to do anything special; just have your ID ready and make sure you are in a place where you can take a quick video call. If you cannot do the video call immediately, you can schedule it for later and come back to finish your application.

Funding your new account

Once your account is open, you can add money using several methods. The fastest is a debit card—PNC accepts Visa and Mastercard from other banks and the money shows up in your account within one business day. You can also transfer money from another bank account using ACH (Automated Clearing House), which takes one to three business days. Wire transfers are fastest and arrive the same day if sent before 2 p.m. ET, but they typically cost $15 to $25.

If you do not fund your account right away, that is fine. Your account stays open and active. However, some features—like bill pay or certain spending tools—may not be available until you make your first deposit. You can add money anytime through the app or website once your account is set up.

What happens if you already bank with PNC

If you have an existing PNC account, opening a second account online is faster. PNC already has your identity verified and your information on file, so you skip the video call step. You can open a new account in about five minutes by logging into your existing account, selecting "Open Another Account," and choosing the account type.

You can link your new account to your existing one immediately, which makes it easy to transfer money between them. This is useful if you want to open a separate savings account or a second checking account for a specific purpose.

Accounts you cannot open online

Most personal accounts open online, but a few do not. Business accounts, trust accounts, and accounts for minors typically require a phone call or branch visit because PNC needs additional documentation or verification. If you are trying to open one of these account types, the website will tell you during the signup process and direct you to call or visit a branch.

Some specialty products—like certain investment accounts or accounts tied to PNC's brokerage services—also require a conversation with a representative. If you are not sure whether your account type can open online, start the process on the website. PNC will let you know within the first few steps if you need to switch to a phone or branch route.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The signup process itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. If you need a video call for identity verification, add another 5 to 10 minutes. Your account is usually active within minutes of completing the application, and you can start using it right away.

Do I need a PNC debit card to open an account online?

No. You can open and use your account without a debit card. You can make transfers, set up direct deposit, and pay bills through the app or website. A debit card is ordered automatically and arrives in 7 to 10 business days, but it is not required to use your account.

What if my identity verification fails during the video call?

If you cannot verify your identity during the video call, PNC will ask for additional documents—usually a utility bill or lease to confirm your address. You can upload these through the app or email them to PNC. The process may take a few extra days, but most accounts are still approved.

Can I open a PNC account if I do not have a Social Security number?

PNC requires a Social Security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) to open an account. If you do not have one, you will need to visit a branch in person and bring additional documentation. Call PNC at 1-800-762-4000 to ask what documents they will accept.

Is there a fee to open a PNC account online?

No. Opening an account is free. However, some PNC accounts have monthly maintenance fees if you do not meet certain requirements—like keeping a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit. Check the account terms before you finish signup to see what fees may apply to the account type you are choosing.