Yes, you can open a PNC savings account entirely online
PNC lets you open a savings account through their website or mobile app without visiting a branch. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes and requires basic personal information, a valid ID, and a funding source. You'll need to be at least 18 years old and a U.S. resident with a valid Social Security number or ITIN.
Once you complete the online application, PNC verifies your identity using information from credit bureaus and public records. Most accounts are approved and active within one business day, though some take up to five business days if additional verification is needed. You can start using your account as soon as it's approved—you don't have to wait for a debit card to arrive by mail.
Key Takeaways
- You can start a PNC savings account online at pnc.com or through the PNC Mobile App without stepping into a branch.
- The application requires your Social Security number, a government-issued ID, and proof of your current address.
- Most online applications are approved within one business day, and you can deposit money immediately using your account number and routing number.
- PNC savings accounts have no monthly maintenance fee, but interest rates and minimum balance requirements vary by account type.
- If you already have a PNC checking account, opening a linked savings account online is faster because PNC already has your information on file.
What you need before you start the application
Gather these items before you begin: a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number or ITIN, your current address, and a phone number where PNC can reach you. You'll also need a way to fund the account—either a bank account to transfer from, a debit card, or a credit card.
If you're opening the account as a minor (under 18), a parent or legal guardian must open a custodial account instead, which requires them to be present and verified. PNC does not allow minors to open standard savings accounts online on their own.
Step-by-step: opening your account online
Go to pnc.com and click "Open an Account" or use the PNC Mobile App. Select "Savings Account" from the account type options. PNC will ask you to choose which type of savings account you want—options typically include a standard savings account, a money market account, or a high-yield savings product. Read the details for each because interest rates and minimum balances differ.
Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, current address, phone number, and email. PNC will verify this information against credit bureaus and public records. If there's a mismatch or if PNC needs more information, they'll ask you to confirm details or upload documents like a utility bill or lease.
Next, choose how you'll fund the account. You can link an external bank account and transfer money, or use a debit or credit card for an initial deposit. PNC may place a temporary hold on the first transfer to verify the account is yours—this is normal and usually clears within one to two business days.
Review the account terms, including the fee schedule and interest rate, then sign electronically. PNC will send a confirmation email with your account number and routing number. Your account is now open and ready to use, even if your debit card hasn't arrived yet.
How long approval takes and when you can use your account
Most applications are approved instantly or within one business day. PNC will send you an email confirming your account is active. You can log into your account online or through the app immediately and start making deposits or transfers.
If PNC needs additional verification—for example, if your address doesn't match public records or if there's a discrepancy in your identity information—they may contact you by phone or email. This can add two to five business days to the process. They may ask you to upload a utility bill, lease, or other proof of address.
Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can still access your money through online transfers, ATM withdrawals using your account number, or by requesting a temporary card number through the app.
Interest rates and fees for PNC savings accounts
PNC savings accounts have no monthly maintenance fee. However, interest rates vary depending on the account type and your balance. Standard savings accounts earn lower rates, while money market accounts and high-yield savings products earn more but may require a higher minimum balance.
Interest rates change based on the Federal Reserve's rate decisions and market conditions, so the rate you see when you open your account may not be the same six months later. Check PNC's website for current rates before you apply, or log into your account after opening to see your exact rate.
Other fees to know about: PNC charges $3.50 per withdrawal or transfer if you exceed six per month (this is a federal rule that applies to most savings accounts). There's no fee for ATM withdrawals or for transferring money between your own PNC accounts.
If you already have a PNC checking account
If you're already a PNC customer with a checking account, opening a savings account online is faster. PNC already has your identity verified and your information on file, so the application may be approved in minutes instead of hours or days.
Log into your existing PNC account online or through the app, then look for "Open a New Account" or "Add an Account." You'll skip most of the verification steps and go straight to choosing your savings account type and funding it. You can link the two accounts immediately so money moves easily between them.
What to do if your application is denied or delayed
If PNC denies your application, they'll send you a letter explaining why. Common reasons include identity verification issues, a history of fraud or unpaid accounts, or ChexSystems records (a banking history report). You can dispute inaccurate information on your ChexSystems report by contacting ChexSystems directly at chexsystems.com.
If your application is delayed, PNC will contact you by phone or email asking for more information. Respond as quickly as possible with whatever documents they request—a utility bill, lease, or other proof of address usually resolves delays within one to two business days.
If you can't open an account online, visit a PNC branch in person. A banker can open your account on the spot and may be able to waive certain verification steps if you bring your ID and proof of address.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a PNC savings account if I don't have a Social Security number?
Yes. If you have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead of a Social Security number, PNC will accept it. You'll need to provide the same documentation as other applicants, including a government-issued ID and proof of address.
What's the minimum deposit to open a PNC savings account online?
PNC does not require a minimum deposit to open most savings accounts online. However, some high-yield or money market accounts may have a minimum balance to earn the advertised interest rate. Check the account details before you apply to see if a minimum applies to the account type you choose.
Can I open a joint savings account with someone else online?
No. Joint accounts require both account holders to verify their identity in person or through a video call with PNC. Start the application online, and PNC will guide you through the verification process for the second account holder.
What if I need to access my money before my debit card arrives?
You can transfer money out of your savings account to another bank account online, withdraw cash at any PNC ATM using your account number, or request a temporary card number through the PNC app to use online or in stores.
Can I open multiple savings accounts with PNC online?
Yes. Once your first account is open and verified, you can open additional savings accounts online through your existing PNC login. There's no limit to how many savings accounts you can have, though each one counts toward the six-withdrawal limit per month.