Yes, you can open a PNC savings account entirely online

PNC allows you to 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 have access to your account when ready after approval, though the account won't be fully active for transfers until the next business day.

The online path is faster than going to a branch, and you can do it at any time. PNC's system verifies your identity in real time, so you get an answer on the spot rather than waiting for a callback.

Key Takeaways

  • You can start the account opening process on PNC's website or through their mobile app, and the whole thing takes 10 to 15 minutes.
  • You'll need a valid government-issued ID, your Social Security number, and proof of your current address to complete the process.
  • PNC verifies your identity when ready during the online process, so you know right away whether your account is open.
  • Your account becomes usable for transfers the next business day, though you can see your account number and routing number as soon as it opens.
  • PNC offers different savings account types online, each with different interest rates and minimum balance requirements, so compare before you choose.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you begin the online process. You'll need a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. PNC scans or photographs this during the process to verify you are who you say you are.

You also need your Social Security number and your current address. PNC cross-checks this information against public records to confirm your identity. If you've moved recently, use your actual current address, not a previous one.

Finally, have a funding source ready. This is either a bank account you already own (for a transfer) or a debit card. PNC will move money from this source into your new savings account, usually within one to two business days. You don't have to fund it when ready — you can do that after the account opens — but having the information on hand speeds things up.

The step-by-step process on PNC's website

Go to PNC's website and look for the "Open an Account" or "New Accounts" link, usually in the top navigation. Select "Savings Account" from the account types shown. PNC will ask you to choose which savings product you want — they typically offer a basic savings account, a money market account, and sometimes a high-yield savings option. Each has different interest rates and minimum balance rules, so read the details for each before you pick.

Next, enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, email address, and phone number. Then provide your current address and confirm it matches your ID. PNC will ask whether you're a new customer or already have a PNC account. If you already bank with PNC, the process is slightly faster because they already have some of your information on file.

PNC then asks you to verify your identity. You'll photograph or scan both sides of your government-issued ID using your computer's camera or by uploading an image file. The system reads your ID and compares it to the information you entered. This usually takes a few seconds. If there's a mismatch, PNC will ask you to try again or contact customer service.

Once your identity is verified, you'll set up login credentials — a username and password — for your new account. You'll also choose security questions and answers. Then you'll review the account terms and conditions, and PNC will ask you to consent to them electronically. After you consent, your account opens when ready.

Funding your account and when you can use it

After your account opens, PNC shows you your account number and routing number right away. You can use these to set up transfers from another bank, or you can fund the account directly through PNC's website using a bank account or debit card you already own.

Your account is open and usable for receiving transfers the next business day. If you fund it on a Friday, for example, the money usually arrives by Monday, and you can move money out starting that same day. If you fund it after 5 p.m. Eastern Time, PNC may process it as if it arrived the next day.

You don't have to fund the account when ready. Many people open the account first and fund it later, once they've confirmed their login works and they're comfortable with the setup.

PNC savings account types available online

PNC offers several savings products through their online account opening. A standard savings account typically has no monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance (this varies, so check current terms). Interest rates on savings accounts are usually lower than on money market accounts.

A money market account usually offers a higher interest rate but requires a higher minimum balance to open and to avoid a monthly fee. Some money market accounts also come with a limited number of withdrawals per month before fees kick in.

PNC sometimes offers a high-yield savings account with a higher interest rate than their standard savings account, though the rate and terms change. Check PNC's website at the time you open your account to see which products are currently available and what their rates and minimums are.

What happens if your identity verification fails

If PNC's system can't verify your identity from your ID photograph, you'll see a message telling you verification failed. This usually happens because the photo is blurry, the ID is expired, or the information on your ID doesn't match what you entered in the form. Read the error message carefully — it often tells you what went wrong.

You can usually try again when ready. Take a clearer photo, make sure both sides of your ID are visible and well-lit, and double-check that the name, address, and date of birth you entered match your ID exactly. If you try again and it still fails, you'll need to contact PNC customer service. They can open the account manually, though this takes longer — usually one to two business days.

Opening an account on the PNC mobile app

The PNC mobile app has an "Open an Account" option that works almost identically to the website process. read the PNC app, tap "Open an Account," and follow the same steps: choose your account type, enter your information, photograph your ID, verify your identity, and set up your login.

The mobile app sometimes has a slight advantage because your phone's camera is already built in, so you don't have to upload a photo file. Otherwise, the timeline and requirements are the same as opening online through a browser.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a current PNC customer to open a savings account online?

No. PNC allows new customers to open a savings account entirely online. If you already have a PNC checking account, the process is slightly faster because PNC already has some of your information, but it's not required.

What if I don't have a government-issued ID?

You'll need a valid government-issued ID to open an account online. If you don't have one, you can visit a PNC branch in person with alternative forms of identification, though the branch staff will determine what they can accept.

Can I open a PNC savings account if I'm not a U.S. citizen?

PNC can open accounts for non-citizens, but you'll need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or a valid passport in addition to the standard information. The online process may not support this, so contact PNC customer service to discuss your options.

How long does it take to transfer money into my new PNC savings account?

If you fund the account from another bank account, the transfer usually takes one to two business days. If you use a debit card, the money may arrive faster — sometimes the same day or next day, depending on the card issuer. Check PNC's website for current transfer timelines.

Can I open multiple savings accounts online?

Yes. Once your first account is open and you're logged in, you can open additional accounts through your PNC dashboard. Each account has its own number and can be used for different purposes.