Opening a PNC Savings Account Online or In Person
You can open a PNC savings account either online through PNC's website or by visiting a branch in person. The online route takes about 10 minutes and you can fund the account immediately; the in-person route lets you ask questions and hand over cash or a check on the spot. Both paths require the same basic information: your Social Security number, a government-issued ID, your date of birth, and an initial deposit (which varies by account type).
If you choose online, go to pnc.com, select "Open an Account," and choose the savings product you want. You'll enter your personal details, verify your identity through PNC's system, and link a funding source—usually a bank account you already have. If you go to a branch, bring your ID and the money or check you want to deposit, and a banker will walk you through the paperwork. Both methods are complete the same day, though online accounts may take a few hours to activate for transfers.
Key Takeaways
- PNC offers several savings account types, including a basic savings account and a money market account, each with different minimum balance requirements and interest rates.
- You can open an account online in about 10 minutes or visit a PNC branch with your ID and initial deposit to open in person.
- You will need your Social Security number, government-issued ID, date of birth, and an initial deposit amount to complete the account opening.
- Once your account is open, you can deposit money through transfers, mobile check deposit, ATM deposits, or in-branch deposits depending on the method you choose.
PNC Savings Account Types and Minimum Deposits
PNC offers a few different savings products. The basic PNC Savings Account is the most common choice and typically requires a small minimum opening deposit—check PNC's current terms, as minimums change. There is also a PNC Money Market Account, which usually requires a higher minimum balance but pays a higher interest rate. Both accounts come with a debit card and online access.
The minimum opening deposit and the minimum balance you must maintain to avoid a monthly fee vary by account type and can change. Before you open, confirm the current minimums on PNC's website or ask a banker in person. Some PNC checking accounts bundle with savings accounts and may waive fees if you meet certain conditions, so ask whether combining accounts makes sense for your situation.
What Information You Need to Bring or Provide
To open a savings account at PNC, you will need your Social Security number, a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your date of birth, and your current address. PNC will verify your identity electronically if you open online, or the banker will check your ID in person.
You will also need to decide how much money to deposit to open the account. This can be a check, a transfer from another bank account, or cash if you are opening in person. If you do not have another bank account to transfer from, opening in person with cash is the simplest route. Have your initial deposit amount ready before you start the process.
Funding Your New Savings Account
Once your account is open, you can add money in several ways. Bank transfers from another account take one to three business days. Mobile check deposit through the PNC Mobile app lets you photograph a check and deposit it within minutes, though the funds may take a day or two to clear. ATM depositsIn-branch deposits
If you opened your account online and want to make your first deposit by check or cash, you can mail a check to PNC or visit a branch to deposit cash. Set up automatic transfers from your paycheck or another account if you want deposits to happen on a schedule—you can do this through PNC's online banking or by calling customer service.
Online Banking and Mobile Access
Once your account is active, you can log into PNC's online banking portal at pnc.com using your username and password. From there you can check your balance, view transactions, set up transfers, and manage your account settings. The PNC Mobile app offers the same features plus mobile check deposit and the ability to find nearby ATMs and branches.
You can also set up alerts to notify you when your balance drops below a certain amount, when a deposit clears, or when a withdrawal is made. These alerts help you track your savings and catch any unusual activity. If you have questions about your account after opening, you can call PNC customer service, visit a branch, or use the chat feature in online banking.
Fees and Interest Rates
PNC savings accounts earn interest, though the rate changes based on market conditions and the type of account. Money market accounts typically pay higher rates than basic savings accounts. You can see the current rates on PNC's website or ask when you open your account.
Monthly maintenance fees apply if you fall below the minimum balance requirement for your account type. Some accounts waive the fee if you maintain a certain balance or if you have a linked PNC checking account. Overdraft fees, ATM fees outside the PNC network, and other charges may also apply depending on your account and how you use it. Review PNC's fee schedule before opening to understand what costs might apply to your situation.
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 do not have either, contact PNC directly to ask about alternatives, though options are limited.
How long does it take for money to show up after I transfer it from another bank?
Transfers from another bank typically take one to three business days. Transfers between PNC accounts are usually instant or same-day. Mobile check deposits and ATM deposits can take one to two business days to clear, depending on when you deposit and the amount.
What happens if my balance drops below the minimum?
If your account balance falls below the minimum required for your account type, PNC will charge a monthly maintenance fee. You can avoid this by keeping your balance above the minimum or by linking a checking account that waives the fee.
Can I open a savings account for someone else or as a joint account?
You can open a joint savings account with another person if you both visit a branch or if you open online and add an authorized user afterward. For accounts for minors, you typically need to open a parent-child account in person at a branch.
What is the difference between a savings account and a money market account at PNC?
A money market account usually requires a higher minimum balance but pays a higher interest rate. It may also come with a limited number of withdrawals per month. A basic savings account has a lower minimum and more flexible withdrawal rules but typically earns less interest.