Punjab National Bank (PNB) has announced plans to close bank accounts that have remained inactive for more than three years and have a zero balance, urging affected customers to complete their Know Your Customer (KYC) verification by November 10, 2026.
In a statement dated October 26, 2026, which was also shared on its X account, the public sector lender said the move was aimed at preventing the misuse of inactive accounts and reducing the risks associated with keeping them open.
Customers whose accounts fall under this category have been advised to visit their respective PNB branches, complete the required KYC formalities and get their accounts reactivated before the deadline.
Which PNB accounts are at risk of closure?
According to the bank, accounts that have recorded no customer-initiated transaction or operation during the three years preceding September 30, 2026, and have a zero balance will be considered for closure.
Customers holding such accounts should contact their respective branches to complete KYC verification and seek reactivation. Those who believe their accounts may fall under this category should check their account status with the bank to avoid any disruption.
Separate deadline for pending KYC updates
PNB has also reminded customers that KYC updation is mandatory under Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines.
For accounts whose KYC updation was due on or before September 30, 2026, the bank has asked customers to complete the process by October 31, 2026. This deadline is separate from November 10, 2026, which applies to customers whose zero-balance accounts have remained without customer-induced operations for more than three years.
Customers should check which requirement applies to their accounts and complete the necessary formalities within the relevant deadline.
How to update KYC without visiting a branch
PNB has provided several options for customers to update their KYC details. These include the PNB ONE mobile application, internet banking services (IBS), a registered email address, post, WhatsApp, SMS and the bank's corporate website. Customers can also visit a PNB branch for assistance.
The bank has said that customers can use digital and other available channels to update their details, depending on their circumstances and the nature of the required changes.
How to update KYC through SMS
Customers whose existing KYC details have not changed can use the SMS facility to confirm that their information remains the same.
PNB has specified the following format:
Send an SMS containing `KYCNC` to 9264092640 or 5607040.
The facility is intended for customers who do not need to make changes to their existing KYC information. Customers who need to correct or update their details may have to use another available channel or visit a branch.
What customers should do before the deadline
Customers should first check whether their accounts have been flagged for closure or whether their KYC updation is pending. Those with zero-balance accounts that have had no customer-initiated operations for more than three years should approach their branch and complete the process required for reactivation.
Other customers with pending KYC requirements should ensure that their details are updated by October 31, 2026, if their KYC was due by September 30. Completing the applicable formalities within the stipulated time will help customers avoid account-related complications.