PNC's ATM fee refund policy depends on your account type

PNC does refund out-of-network ATM fees, but only if you hold certain account types. The Virtual Wallet with Performance Select and Virtual Wallet with Premium Fiduciary accounts include unlimited ATM fee reimbursement worldwide. Standard Virtual Wallet accounts and most other PNC checking accounts do not include this benefit — you pay the out-of-network fee and keep it.

The refund appears as a credit to your account, usually within one to three business days of the transaction. PNC does not require you to request the refund manually; it processes automatically when the system recognizes an out-of-network ATM charge on an may be able to access account.

If you use PNC's own ATM network, you never pay a fee regardless of account type. PNC operates roughly 9,000 ATMs across the United States, and you can also use ATMs in the Allpoint network at no charge with most PNC accounts.

Key Takeaways

  • Performance Select and Premium Fiduciary accounts refund all out-of-network ATM fees; standard accounts do not.
  • Refunds post automatically within one to three business days — you do not need to request them.
  • PNC's own ATM network and Allpoint partner ATMs charge no fee on any account type.
  • If your account does not include fee reimbursement, you can check your account type in PNC's mobile app or online banking portal.

How to learn about your account qualifies

Log into your PNC online banking account or open the PNC Mobile app. Go to your account details or account information section — the exact location varies slightly between the web and mobile versions, but both clearly label this area. Your account type appears near the top of the page.

If you see "Virtual Wallet with Performance Select" or "Virtual Wallet with Premium Fiduciary," your account includes ATM fee refunds. If your account shows "Virtual Wallet," "Virtual Wallet with Cash," or any other name, it does not include this benefit. You can also call PNC customer service at 1-800-762-4000 to confirm your account type and current benefits.

What counts as an out-of-network ATM

An out-of-network ATM is any machine that does not belong to PNC or the Allpoint network. This includes ATMs run by other banks, credit unions, convenience stores, casinos, and independent ATM operators. The fee charged by the out-of-network operator (typically $2 to $3) is what PNC refunds on may be able to access accounts.

Some out-of-network ATMs also charge a PNC fee on top of the operator's fee. On may be able to access accounts, PNC refunds both charges. The total refund can range from $2 to $5 per transaction depending on the ATM operator's pricing.

Timing and how refunds appear in your account

When you withdraw cash from an out-of-network ATM, the fee posts to your account when ready or within one business day. The refund credit then appears separately, usually within one to three business days. You will see both the original charge and the refund as separate line items in your transaction history.

Refunds process automatically — there is no form to fill out or request to submit. If a refund does not appear within three business days, contact PNC customer service to investigate. Occasionally a refund fails to post due to a system error, and PNC can manually credit your account.

Switching to an account that includes ATM refunds

If your current account does not include ATM fee reimbursement and you use out-of-network ATMs regularly, you can request to upgrade to Performance Select or Premium Fiduciary. Both accounts have monthly maintenance fees ($25 for Performance Select, $35 for Premium Fiduciary), but the ATM refund benefit may offset that cost if you withdraw cash frequently.

Contact PNC by phone at 1-800-762-4000 or visit a local branch to discuss switching. PNC can usually convert your account within one business day. Before you switch, calculate how many out-of-network ATM transactions you make per month and whether the account fee makes financial sense for your situation.

Allpoint network ATMs as a free alternative

If you want to avoid out-of-network fees altogether without upgrading your account, use the Allpoint network. PNC customers with any account type can withdraw cash at Allpoint ATMs at no charge. Allpoint operates over 55,000 ATMs globally, including locations in grocery stores, pharmacies, and convenience stores.

Find an Allpoint ATM using the PNC Mobile app or the Allpoint website and locator tool. Allpoint machines are often more convenient than PNC's own network because they are embedded in retail locations where you already shop. This is a practical option if you do not want to pay for a higher-tier account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to do anything to get the refund?

No. The refund posts automatically if your account qualifies. You do not need to submit a form, call customer service, or take any action. The credit appears in your account within one to three business days.

What if I use an out-of-network ATM and my account does not include refunds?

You pay the full fee and it stays charged to your account. PNC does not refund fees on standard accounts. Your only options are to upgrade your account type, use a PNC or Allpoint ATM instead, or accept the fee as a cost of that withdrawal.

Does the refund cover fees charged by the ATM operator and PNC's fee?

Yes. On may be able to access accounts, PNC refunds both the out-of-network operator's fee and any fee PNC itself charges. The total refund covers the full cost of using that ATM.

Can I get a refund if I withdrew money more than three business days ago?

If the refund did not post within three business days and your account qualifies, contact PNC customer service. They can investigate whether the refund failed to process and manually credit your account if needed. Keep your receipt or transaction details handy when you call.

Does the ATM refund benefit work internationally?

Yes, on Performance Select and Premium Fiduciary accounts. The refund covers out-of-network ATM fees worldwide. However, international ATM operators often charge higher fees than domestic ones, so the refund may not cover the entire charge in some countries.