PNC Bank Review: Combination Checking and Many Ways To Save
Written by
Rudri Patel
Edited by
Melanie Grafil
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PNC Bank offers a large variety of products and access to over 60,000 ATMs. Plus, the mobile app is a handy tool for managing finances.
PNC Bank offers a large variety of products and access to over 60,000 ATMs. Plus, the mobile app is a handy tool for managing finances.
PNC Bank offers a full suite of banking and lending products for consumers and businesses. It also has a robust digital presence through the PNC online banking options, which are just as solid as its traditional banking model. GOBankingRates has ranked PNC Bank among the Best National Banks and Premium Checking Accounts of 2025, as well as Best Banks in Alabama and Kentucky.
PNC Checking Account
- PNC’s Virtual Wallet® integrates Spend (checking), Reserve (short-term savings), and Growth (long-term savings) accounts, offering users a holistic way to manage their finances. With features like automatic savings tools and low monthly fees that can be waived with qualifying activities, this account is ideal for tech-savvy customers.
- Access to 60,000 ATMs
- Integrated money management
- Fee waiver options
- Higher fees ranging between $7 to $25 if you do not meet waiver options
- Savings account offers a lower APY compared to other competitors
Best For
National Banks
Premium Checking Accounts
Branch Locations
Mobile App
Account Perks
Access to 60,000 ATMs
PNC offers automatic savings and low monthly fees that are also waivable, with at least three different checking account options.
Fees
$7 to $25
APY
N/A
Min Opening
$0
Pros
- Access to 60,000 ATMs
- No minimum deposit to open the Spend Account
- Digital app helps with planning finances
Cons
- Will have to pay monthly fees waiver option requirements are not met
- Requirements include, but are not limited to: being older than age 62 or receiving at least $500 in direct deposits
- Overdraft fee of $36, though this fee is capped at one per day
Why We Like PNC
PNC’s Virtual Wallet provides an excellent balance of traditional banking access and innovative financial tools, but fees may apply if you don’t meet the waiver requirements.
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PNC Performance Select Checking Account
The Performance Select Checking account offers a premium banking experience with features such as unlimited reimbursements for non-PNC ATM fees, no fees for domestic and international wire transfers, and access to higher-tier relationship rates on savings products.
- Unlimited ATM reimbursements for non-PNC ATMs
- Waived wire transfer fees
- Access higher interest rates on linked accounts
- Required minimum deposit of $25
- Monthly fee of $25 will be charged if $5,000 balance across all PNC accounts isn’t met
Best For
Premium Checking Accounts
Branch Locations
Mobile App
Account Perks
Unlimited ATM Reimbursements for Non-PNC ATMs
No fees for using non-PNC ATMs, wire transfers and great rates when combined wth savings accounts.
Fees
$25 monthly, waivable
APY
Min Opening
$25
Pros
- Unlimited ATM fee reimbursements
- No fees on domestic and international wire transfers
- Access to enhanced relationship rates on savings products
Cons
- $25 monthly fee if balance requirements aren’t met
- Minimum opening deposit of $25
Why We Like PNC
PNC’s Performance Select Checking account is ideal for customers seeking premium banking features, such as unlimited ATM fee reimbursements and waived wire transfer fees, with a manageable balance requirement to waive the monthly fee.
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PNC Savings Accounts
PNC Bank has a Standard Savings account with a great growth model for savers of all varieties, especially for mobile banking. PNC also has a high-yield savings account with a APY, which is higher than most. Here are some key takeaways:
- No minimum deposit
- The minimum to earn interest is only $1
- $5 monthly service charge
- There is a $0 monthly service charge if you meet any of the following requirements:
- Under 18 years old
- Have an average monthly minimum balance of $300
- Your account is linked to a PNC checking account and have a monthly Auto Savings transfer set up.
Best For
Premium Checking Accounts
Branch Locations
Mobile App
Account Perks
$1 Min. Balance to Earn APY
You don’t need a minium deposit for this savings account.
Fees
$5 monthly
APY
Min Opening
$0
Pros
- $1 minimum balance to earn APY
- Unlimited deposits
- Up to six free withdrawals
- $5 monthly fee is waivable
- Competitive interest rate for high-yield savings account
Cons
- High-yield savings only available in select markets
- Lower interest on standard savings account
- Standard savings has a fee unless you are qualified to waive it
Why We Like PNC
PNC’s savings accounts are ideal for customers who value automation, though online banks might offer better consistent APYs.
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PNC CD Accounts
With a CD, you can enjoy a predictable rate of return on your investment. Compare other banks’ rates to ensure that PNC Bank CD rates are the best for you, as they can be a bit low. Here are some factors to consider.
- Wide variety of CD rates and terms
- Longer terms earn higher rates
- Better interest return than savings or money market accounts
- PNC CD rates are on the lower side when compared to some leading competitors.
Best For
Premium Checking Accounts
Branch Locations
Mobile App
Account Perks
Longer Terms Earn Higher Rates
PNC offers a variety of CD rates and choices to suit your savings needs.
Fees
No monthly service fee
APY
Up to
Min Opening
$250 to $1,000
Pros
- Flexible terms between seven days to 10 years
- Insured by the FDIC up to $250,000
Cons
- $1,000 required to open a CD
- Lower APYs compared to competitors
Why We Like PNC
PNC’s CDs are secure but some accounts with lower CD rates might not provide competitive returns for aggressive savers.
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PNC Money Market Account
PNC Bank’s Premiere Money Market Account offers a relationship-based savings solution designed to maximize your savings. The more you save, the higher interest you’ll earn, especially when combined with a PNC checking account.
- Unlimited deposits
- Unlimited withdrawals
- Overdraft protection
- Earn enhanced interest rates by linking your money market account with a qualifying PNC checking account.
- $12 monthly service charge unless you qualify for a waiver
- Variable APY based on account and relationship status
Best For
Premium Checking Accounts
Branch Locations
Mobile App
Account Perks
Unlimited Deposits and Withdrawals
PNC’s Premiere Money Market Account offers flexible savings with potential for higher interest rates when linked to a PNC checking account, but you need to have the minimum balance and relationship to avoid fees and reap the benefits.
Fees
$12, waivable
APY
Starting at
Min Opening
$0
Pros
- Potential for higher interest rates with linked accounts
- Unlimited deposits and up to six fee-free withdrawals per month
- Overdraft protection when linked to a PNC checking account
Cons
- Monthly service charge if waiver conditions aren’t met.
- Higher interest rates may require substantial balances and linked accounts.
Why We Like PNC
PNC’s Premiere Money Market Account is suitable for customers seeking a flexible savings option with the potential for higher interest rates, especially when combined with other PNC banking products. However, to maximize those benefits, maintaining higher balances and meeting specific relationship criteria may be necessary.
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PNC Banking Experience
PNC Mobile Banking offers several tiers of Virtual Wallet, including a student version. With each option, customers get a primary checking account, an interest-bearing checking account and a long-term savings account. The Virtual Wallet options offer an array of tools to help you manage your funds.
Mobile App
The PNC mobile app offers a Low Cash Mode feature, which notifies you when your balance is low and gives you options for handling it. It’s rated 4.8 stars on the App Store and 4.5 stars on Google Play.
Customer Service
Banking doesn’t mean you have only to visit your local branch. You can bank with PNC in a few ways:
- Find your nearest location and ATM
- Call 1-888-PNC-Bank
- Visit the Customer Service Center for more options
- Go online and visit the Secure Message Center
- Through the mobile app
- Tweet @PNCBank_Help
Overdraft Fees
If you overdraw your account, you’ll have 24 hours to bring your account at least to zero before overdraft fees are charged. If you have multiple items that will bring your account negative when combined, you can choose which items you want paid for and which to be returned.
How Does PNC Compare?
Each bank has its advantages. Here’s a look at what makes PNC stand out.
SELECTED BANK
MOST COMPARABLE
MOST COMPARABLE
Fees
Fees
Fees
$7 to $25
$5 to $35 waivable monthly fee
$0
APY
APY
APY
N/A
Up to
Min Opening
Min Opening
Min Opening
$0
$25
$0
SELECTED BANK
MOST COMPARABLE
MOST COMPARABLE
Fees
Fees
Fees
$25 monthly, waivable
$35 waivable monthly service fee
$0
APY
APY
APY
Min Opening
Min Opening
Min Opening
$25
$25
$0
SELECTED BANK
MOST COMPARABLE
MOST COMPARABLE
Fees
Fees
Fees
$5 monthly
Up to $12 monthly service fee – can be waived
$0
APY
APY
APY
Up to for Platinum Savings accounts
Min Opening
Min Opening
Min Opening
$0
$25
$0
SELECTED BANK
MOST COMPARABLE
MOST COMPARABLE
Fees
Fees
Fees
No monthly service fee
Early withdrawal penalty may apply
No monthly service fee
APY
APY
APY
Up to
Up to
Up to
Min Opening
Min Opening
Min Opening
$250 to $1,000
$2,500 to $5,000
$0
SELECTED BANK
MOST COMPARABLE
MOST COMPARABLE
Fees
Fees
Fees
$12, waivable
$20, waivable
$10, waivable
APY
APY
APY
Starting at
Up to
Up to
Min Opening
Min Opening
Min Opening
$0
$5,000
$100
PNC Bank vs. Wells Fargo
PNC Bank is a regional bank with over 2,000 branches. Wells Fargo has a larger network of local branches with over5,600 locations across the U.S.
In addition, Wells Fargo has more accounts available to fit your personal needs.
PNC Bank vs. Bank of America
Of the two banks, Bank of America has a larger nationwide footprint than PNC. Bank of America has 3,700 retail centers and 15,000 ATMs, which outnumbers PNC’s branches. Bank of America also has a bonus offer of $300 if you open a new Bank of America checking account. PNC has innovative digital tools with its Virtual Wallet and budgeting features. If you prefer accessibility with a wide range of ATM networks, Bank of America is the clear winner. If you need help with budgeting and are more tech-savvy, PNC is a better fit.
PNC vs. Ally
PNC Bank and Ally Bank cater to different customer needs. PNC excels in hybrid banking through its Virtual Wallet tool, which combines checking and savings tools alongside its extensive branch network. In contrast, Ally Bank focuses exclusively on online banking, offering higher APYs on savings and CDs without requiring account linkages or high balances. PNC is ideal for those seeking in-person support and integrated account management, while Ally appeals to customers prioritizing simplicity, no fees and competitive interest rates in a digital-only format. Both banks provide robust digital tools, but their approach to customer experience sets them apart.
Final Take
PNC Bank is best for people who live in select Midwest, Northeast or Southern states where brick-and-mortar branches are located. If you live in one of the areas served by PNC Bank, or if you want to bank online only, it’s a solid choice. The breadth of product offerings and the advanced technology make it worthy of consideration if you’re in the market for a new bank. Anyone interested in “bundling” multiple bank accounts to receive added benefits, such as relationship rates and fewer overdraft fees, will appreciate banking with PNC. This among other variables is why GOBankingRates has ranked PNC Bank among the Best National Banks for 2025.
PNC FAQ
Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about PNC Bank.- Is PNC a good bank to bank with?
- PNC is a regional bank with 2,600 branches and 60,000 ATMs in the Midwest, Northeast, Southeast, and Southwest regions. It’s an FDIC member, which insures deposits up to $250,000 per depositor per ownership category.
- Does PNC Bank have monthly fees?
- PNC Bank does charge monthly fees for certain accounts. For example, the standard checking account has a $7 monthly fee, which can be waived if you meet certain criteria. Also, the Performance Checking account carries a $15 monthly fee but that can be waived if you meet certain requirements.
- You can avoid fees based on keeping the minimum balance in your checking account. For a standard checking account, maintain $500 or receive at least $500 in qualifying direct deposits. For the Performance Checking account, maintain an average balance of $2,000 or receive a qualifying deposit of $2,000. For standard savings, you must maintain $300, set up an automatic transfer of $25 from a checking account, or be under age 18 to avoid the monthly fee.
- Does PNC Bank have transaction fees?
- You can avoid fees based on keeping the minimum balance in your checking account. For a standard checking account, maintain $500 or receive at least $500 in qualifying direct deposits. For the Performance Checking account, maintain an average balance of $2,000 or receive a qualifying deposit of $2,000. For standard savings, you must maintain $300, set up an automatic transfer of $25 from a checking account, or be under age 18 to avoid the monthly fee.
Caitlyn Moorhead, Karen Doyle and Cynthia Bowman contributed to the reporting for this article.
Rates are subject to change; unless otherwise noted, rates are updated periodically. All other information on accounts is accurate as of Dec. 2, 2024.
Editorial Note: This content is not provided by any entity covered in this article. Any opinions, analyses, reviews, ratings or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the author alone and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any entity named in this article.
To discover the Best National Banks of 2025, GOBankingRates analyzed the top national institutions, (excluding online banks and neobanks) that have branches in at least 25 states and have over $400 billion in total assets, or both. GOBankingRates considered the following factors (1) total assets as sourced from the FDIC; (2) checking product minimum deposit; (3) monthly checking fee ratio (percentage of the minimum to avoid fees compared to the monthly fee itself); (4) savings product minimum deposit; (5) savings product APY; (6) Bauer rating (out of 5 stars); (7) products/services offered (auto loans, mortgage loans, credit cards, investment services and insurance); and (8) the average mobile app rating between the Google Play (Android) and Apple stores. All factors were then scored and combined, with the lowest score being the best. Factors (1), (2) and (4) were weighed 0.5 times, factor (5) was weighed 2.5 times; and factor (7) was weighed 1.5 times. All products and offerings had to be available as of Nov. 1, 2024, to be considered. Rates are subject to change; unless otherwise noted, rates are updated periodically. All other information on accounts is accurate as of Dec. 2, 2024.
To determine the Best Premium Checking Accounts of 2025, GOBankingRates looked at the following factors from the most premier or costly checking product from the top 25 banks (in terms of total assets): (1) total assets as sourced from the FDIC; (2) minimum deposit to open an account; (3) monthly checking fee ratio (percentage of the minimum to avoid fees compared to the monthly fee itself); (4) APY on the checking account; and (6) associated and advertised benefits or perks from these premium products. All factors were then scored and combined, with the lowest score being the best. Factor (1) and (2) were weighed 0.5 times, and factor (6) was weighed 3 times. All products and offerings had to be available as of Nov. 1, 2024, to be considered. Rates are subject to change; unless otherwise noted, rates are updated periodically. All other information on accounts is accurate as of Dec. 2, 2024.
