What you need to open a PNC checking account

PNC requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open a checking account. You can open an account online, by phone, or in person at a PNC branch. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes online or in-branch, though some account types require a minimum opening deposit that ranges from $0 to $500 depending on which account you choose.

You'll also need a valid email address and a phone number. If you're opening online, you can fund the account immediately with a debit card, bank transfer, or wire transfer. If you open in person, you can deposit cash or a check on the spot.

PNC does not use ChexSystems or other checking account verification services for most account types, but they do review your banking history through their own internal records. If you've had accounts closed for overdrafts or fraud at PNC in the past, you may be declined.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a photo ID, Social Security number, and an opening deposit (which may be $0 for some account types) to open a PNC checking account.
  • PNC offers online, phone, and in-branch account opening; online takes about 10 to 15 minutes and you can fund it immediately with a debit card or bank transfer.
  • The monthly fee and minimum balance requirements vary by account type—some PNC accounts have no monthly fee if you meet a direct deposit or balance threshold.
  • PNC reviews your internal banking history but does not use ChexSystems, so a closed account at another bank will not automatically disqualify you.
  • You can start using your account the same day you open it online; debit card and checks arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Opening an account online versus in person

Opening online is faster and requires no trip to a branch. You'll enter your personal information, verify your identity with your photo ID, and choose your account type. PNC uses a digital ID verification process that scans your driver's license or passport. Once approved, you can fund the account with a debit card, ACH transfer from another bank, or wire transfer. Your account number and routing number are available immediately, so you can set up direct deposit or transfers the same day.

Opening in person at a branch takes about the same amount of time but gives you the chance to ask questions and deposit cash or a check on the spot. A PNC banker will walk you through the account options and help you choose the right one for your situation. You'll receive a temporary debit card or checks on the day you open the account at some locations, though this varies by branch.

If you don't have a photo ID or prefer not to scan it online, opening in person is your only option. You can find your nearest PNC branch using their branch locator on their website.

PNC checking account types and their fees

PNC offers several checking accounts with different fee structures. PNC Checking has a $10 monthly fee but waives it if you maintain a $500 minimum daily balance or set up a direct deposit of at least $500 per month. PNC Virtual Wallet with Performance Spending has no monthly fee and includes budgeting tools, but requires you to link a savings account. PNC Student Checking has no monthly fee for students under 24 and no minimum balance requirement.

If you don't meet the balance or direct deposit threshold for a standard account, the monthly fee will post on the last day of each statement cycle. You can avoid the fee by moving money into the account before that date or by setting up direct deposit. Some accounts also waive fees if you maintain a linked savings account with a certain balance.

PNC does not charge overdraft fees on debit card transactions—if you don't have enough money, the transaction will be declined. However, ACH transfers and checks can still overdraw your account, and PNC charges $35 per overdraft item for those transactions. You can opt out of overdraft protection for ACH and checks, which will decline those transactions instead.

Funding your new account and getting your debit card

When you open your account online, you can fund it immediately with a debit card from another bank, a transfer from another checking or savings account, or a wire transfer. Debit card funding is instant; ACH transfers typically post within 1 to 3 business days. Wire transfers post the same day if sent before 2 p.m. ET on a business day.

Your PNC debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can request expedited shipping for a fee, or you can visit a PNC branch to pick up a temporary card the day you open your account. Your account number and routing number are available immediately online, so you can set up direct deposit or bill payments before your physical card arrives.

If you open your account in person, you can deposit cash or a check immediately. Some branches issue a temporary debit card on the spot, though this is not may provide at all locations. Ask the banker when you open your account.

What happens after you open your account

Your account is active the moment you complete the opening process. You can log into PNC's online banking platform or mobile app right away to view your account number, routing number, and balance. You can set up bill pay, transfer money to other accounts, and deposit checks using mobile check deposit.

Your first statement will arrive 30 days after your account opening date. You can view statements online at any time. If you set up direct deposit, your employer will need your account number and routing number; you can find both in your online account or on the temporary checks PNC may have given you.

If you need to add a second person to your account (a joint owner or authorized user), you can do this online or in person. Joint owners have equal access to the account and can withdraw money or close the account. Authorized users can access the account but cannot close it or remove the primary owner.

If you're denied or have trouble opening an account

PNC may decline your application if you have a history of fraud, unpaid overdrafts, or a closed account at PNC due to negative balance. If you're declined, PNC will send you a letter explaining the reason. You can contact PNC to dispute the information or wait 30 days and reapply.

If you have trouble with the online ID verification process, you can open your account in person instead. Bring your photo ID and Social Security card to a PNC branch. If you don't have a Social Security number, you can open an account with an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), though you'll need to do this in person and may need additional documentation.

If you're opening an account for a minor (under 18), a parent or guardian must be present and will be the primary account owner. The minor can be added as an authorized user or joint owner depending on PNC's policies at your branch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a PNC checking account without a Social Security number?

Yes, you can open an account with an ITIN if you don't have a Social Security number. You'll need to open the account in person at a PNC branch and bring your ITIN documentation. Some branches may ask for additional proof of identity or residency.

How long does it take to receive my debit card?

Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. You can request expedited shipping for a fee, or pick up a temporary card at a PNC branch on the day you open your account if you open in person.

What's the difference between a joint owner and an authorized user?

A joint owner has full access to the account and can withdraw money, close the account, or remove the other owner. An authorized user can access the account and make transactions but cannot close it or remove the primary owner. You can add either one online or in person.

Do I need a minimum balance to avoid monthly fees?

It depends on your account type. Some PNC accounts waive the monthly fee with a $500 minimum daily balance or a $500 monthly direct deposit. Others have no monthly fee at all. Check the fee schedule for your specific account type when you open it.

Can I open a PNC account if I've had accounts closed at other banks?

Yes. PNC does not use ChexSystems, so a closed account at another bank won't automatically disqualify you. However, PNC does review your history with PNC itself, so a previous account closed for fraud or unpaid overdrafts at PNC may result in denial.