PNB to Close Inactive Zero-Balance Accounts After November 10, 2026: What You Need to Know

Punjab National Bank (PNB) has issued an important alert to its customers regarding the closure of certain inactive, zero-balance accounts after November 10, 2026. This move, announced in a notice on October 26, is aimed at preventing potential misuse and reducing risks associated with maintaining long-inactive accounts. For ordinary savers, this means a proactive check of their accounts is essential to avoid disruption.

The bank's latest notice specifically targets accounts that meet two conditions: they must not have recorded any customer-initiated transaction or operation for more than three years as of September 30, 2026, and they must have a zero balance. This implies that if you haven't used your PNB account since before September 30, 2023, and it currently holds no funds, it could be slated for closure. It is crucial to understand that not all inactive accounts are affected; only those meeting both criteria are targeted.

To prevent account closure, affected customers have until November 10, 2026, to complete necessary Know Your Customer (KYC) formalities and reactivate their accounts. PNB advises visiting your respective bank branch, submitting updated KYC documents, and formally requesting reactivation. Accepted documents for reactivation typically include a request letter along with valid identity and address proofs such as Aadhaar, passport, driving licence, or voter ID, in addition to PAN or Form 60. Reactivation requests can also be processed through non-home branches, subject to verification.

It is important to distinguish this from the bank's general classification of an 'inoperative' account, which occurs after 24 continuous months without customer-induced transactions. While an account may become inoperative after two years, it does not automatically fall under this specific closure exercise unless it also meets the three-year inactivity and zero-balance conditions. Customer-induced transactions include financial activities like deposits and withdrawals, as well as non-financial actions such as authenticated balance enquiries, cheque book requests, and KYC updates through official channels.

Customers who manage multiple savings accounts, perhaps opened for previous employment or salary payments, should verify the status of any accounts that may have remained unused for several years. Those with inactive, zero-balance accounts falling under the specified category should promptly complete the required KYC and reactivation process before the deadline. For assistance or to check account status, PNB customers can contact the bank via its toll-free customer care numbers, 1800-1800 and 1800-2021, or visit their nearest branch.

What to watch: Ensure your PNB accounts remain active and KYC compliant to avoid service disruption.

Editor's note: The article is thorough, well-structured, and includes all necessary context regarding the PNB account closure policy, deadlines, and reactivation requirements.