How to add an authorized user to a PNC checking account

You can add someone to your PNC checking account in two ways: as an authorized user or as a joint account holder. An authorized user can make transactions but does not own the account; a joint account holder has equal ownership and legal responsibility. PNC lets you add either type through their mobile app, online banking, or by visiting a branch in person. The fastest route is usually the mobile app or online banking, which takes about 10 minutes if you have the person's Social Security number and date of birth ready.

The person you add must provide their Social Security number, date of birth, and current address. PNC will run a ChexSystems check—a banking history report similar to a credit check—which usually takes a few minutes but may delay approval if there are past banking issues. Once approved, an authorized user can receive a debit card and access mobile banking within one to three business days. A joint owner has immediate access to the full account.

Key Takeaways

  • Authorized users can use the account but do not own it; joint account holders own it equally and are both responsible for overdrafts and debt.
  • You can add someone through the PNC mobile app, PNC.com online banking, or by visiting a branch with the person present or with a signed authorization form.
  • PNC will run a ChexSystems check on the new person, which takes a few minutes and may delay approval if there are banking history issues.
  • The person you add must provide their Social Security number, date of birth, and government-issued ID; they do not need to be present if you have written authorization.
  • Once added, the new person can receive a debit card, access mobile banking, and make transfers within one to three business days.

Adding an authorized user through the PNC mobile app or online banking

Log into your PNC mobile app or go to PNC.com and select the checking account you want to modify. Look for "Account Settings," "Manage Account," or "Add User"—the exact label varies by app version. Select the option to add an authorized user or joint owner. You will be asked to enter the person's full name, Social Security number, date of birth, and current address. PNC will also ask whether they should receive a debit card and whether they can make transfers or only view the account.

After you submit the information, PNC runs a ChexSystems check, which is a banking history report similar to a credit check. This usually takes a few minutes, but if the person has had banking problems in the past, PNC may flag the request for manual review, which can add one to two business days. Once approved, the new person will receive a confirmation email and can set up their own login if they are an authorized user. If they are a joint owner, they have immediate access to the full account.

Adding someone in person at a PNC branch

Visit any PNC branch with your ID and the person you want to add. Bring their government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), Social Security number, and current address. Tell the branch representative whether you want to add an authorized user or make them a joint owner. The representative will complete the paperwork, run the ChexSystems check, and usually finish the process in 15 to 20 minutes if there are no issues with the background check.

If the person cannot come to the branch, you can still add them by bringing a signed authorization form. Ask the branch for their "Authorized User Addition Form" or "Joint Account Authorization Form." You sign it, have the new person sign it, and bring both signatures to the branch. PNC will still need their Social Security number and date of birth, which you can provide on the form. This route takes the same time as in-person addition.

The difference between authorized users and joint account holders

An authorized user can use the debit card, make purchases, withdraw cash, and transfer money, but they do not own the account. You remain the sole owner and are responsible for any overdrafts or fees. If the authorized user overspends, you cannot hold them legally responsible for the debt. Authorized users also cannot close the account, change the account type, or remove themselves—only the account owner can do that.

A joint account holder owns the account equally with you. Both of you can make any transaction, change account settings, add or remove other users, and close the account. Both of you are also equally responsible for overdrafts and any debt on the account. If one joint owner overspends and the account goes negative, the bank can pursue either of you for the full amount. Joint ownership is appropriate for spouses, long-term partners, or family members you fully trust with financial decisions.

What happens after you add someone

If you added an authorized user, they will receive an email with instructions to set up their own login and mobile app access. They can usually log in within one business day. If you requested a debit card for them, it will arrive by mail within seven to ten business days. During that time, they can still use the account through mobile banking or by calling PNC customer service.

If you added a joint owner, they have immediate access to the account and can log in right away. They can also request a debit card, which follows the same seven to ten day timeline. Both authorized users and joint owners can see the full transaction history and account balance once they log in. If you want to restrict what they can see or do, you must contact PNC—the app does not offer granular permission settings.

Removing someone from your account

To remove an authorized user, log into your PNC account online or through the app, go to Account Settings, and select the user you want to remove. Click "Remove" or "Delete User." The change takes effect immediately, and their debit card stops working right away. If they have a card, you may want to contact them before removing them so they are not surprised when it declines.

Removing a joint owner is more complicated because they have equal ownership rights. You cannot unilaterally remove them from the account. Instead, you must visit a branch with your ID and ask to remove the joint owner. The branch will require written consent from the joint owner or a court order if they refuse. If the joint owner will not cooperate, you may need to close the account and open a new one, which means moving direct deposits and automatic payments.

What to do if the ChexSystems check fails

If PNC denies the addition because of a ChexSystems report, you will receive a notice explaining the reason. Common reasons include unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or a history of closed accounts due to negative balances. The person you tried to add can dispute the ChexSystems report if they believe it is wrong. They can request a free copy of their report from ChexSystems by visiting chexsystems.com or calling 1-866-697-3228.

If the report is accurate but outdated, they may still be denied. In that case, ask the PNC branch whether they have a manual review process or whether the person can open their own account separately. Some PNC branches will make exceptions for joint owners if the account owner has a good history with the bank, but this is not may provide. If PNC will not add them, you can explore other banks that may have less strict policies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add someone to my account without them being present?

Yes. You can add them online or through the app using their Social Security number and date of birth, or you can bring a signed authorization form to a branch. PNC does not require the person to be physically present, but they will still need to verify their identity through the ChexSystems check and may contact them to confirm.

Will adding someone to my account affect their credit score?

No. Adding an authorized user or joint owner does not show up on their credit report and does not affect their credit score. However, if the account goes into overdraft or is reported to collections, it could appear on their credit report if they are a joint owner, since they share legal responsibility.

Can an authorized user see my account balance and transaction history?

Yes. Once they log in through the app or online banking, they can see the full balance, all transactions, and account details. PNC does not offer a way to hide this information from authorized users. If you want to keep some transactions private, do not add them to this account.

How long does it take for a new debit card to arrive?

PNC typically mails debit cards within seven to ten business days. The person can use the account through mobile banking or by calling customer service before the card arrives. If they need the card faster, some PNC branches can issue a temporary card in person.

What if the person I want to add has a bad banking history?

PNC will likely deny the addition if the ChexSystems report shows fraud, unpaid overdrafts, or other serious issues. The person can dispute the report if it is wrong, or they can try opening their own account at a different bank. You could also ask PNC whether they will make an exception if you are the primary account owner with good standing.