PNC recently updated how it handles ACH (automatic bank draft) payments. Because of this change, some payments that used to process automatically may now be rejected and come back as NSF (Non-Sufficient Funds) — even if you had enough money in your account. We have been notified that this change has impacted some residents currently using ACH payments through our Resident Portal.

To prevent any issues with your rent payments, we strongly recommend that you deactivate your existing ACH setup and re-enter your bank information to ensure smooth, secure processing. This only takes a few minutes — but please note the full process can take 2–4 business days to complete. We’ve provided a simple step-by-step guide below.

Step-by-Step Guide

  • Go to the Resident Portal on BrandywineCommunities.com.

  • Complete the login process using your username and password.

  • From the Dashboard, select the Payments tab on the left.

  • Then select the Payment Accounts option.

  • Once you have selected the Payment Accounts option, locate your PNC Account. Follow the onscreen instructions to delete your PNC account. Save changes.

Due to specific requirement from PNC and RentCafe’s vendor, Finicity, it’s important to follow the below steps carefully. To add your account:

  1. Click Add Bank Account.
  2. Let the window open and then close it. Repeat this process three times to max out your attempts to link via Finicity. (This is necessary in order to complete the manual add bank account process.)
  3. After the third attempt a Manually Add Bank Account button will appear.
  4. You can then add the bank account by entering the routing and account number and verifying via micro-deposits.

Please Note: The error message indicating you have maxed out your attempt to link via instant bank verification or that your banking institution is not supported will stay at the top of the payment accounts page. It does not go away. Please disregard this message and proceed with the Manually Add Bank Account process.

  • Within 1–3 business days, you’ll see two small test deposits in your bank account (each usually under $1).

  • These are called micro-deposits (or trial deposits). They’re sent to confirm your account is active.

  • Check your bank account for the exact deposit amounts.

  • Return to the Resident Portal and enter those amounts when prompted.

  • Once the amounts match, your account is verified.

  • You can now make rent payments or set up automatic recurring payments.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are micro-deposits?
They’re small test transactions (a few cents) sent to confirm your bank account is valid.

How long does this take?
Usually 2–4 business days, depending on your bank.

Why can’t I pay right away?
Payments can’t be made from your new account until it’s verified through the micro-deposit process.

What if I don’t see the deposits?
Double-check your account info in the portal. If it’s correct but deposits don’t show after 4 days, try re-entering your details.

Will I be charged late fees?
Our Account Services team is aware of the impact this is having on residents and will review accounts on an individual basis. We will work with residents to ensure your account remains in good standing throughout this process.

Will Brandywine Communities waive NSF fees?
NSF fees cannot be waived by Brandywine Communities. These fees are automatically charged by our payment processor when a bank returns a payment.

In this case, returned payments may be the result of PNC Bank’s recent deactivation of certain accounts — a banking issue outside of Brandywine’s control. Because the returned payment and any resulting NSF fees come from the bank, residents who incur a fee should contact PNC Bank Customer Service to request reimbursement or more information. Residents can reach PNC Bank Customer Service at 1-888-PNC-BANK (1-888-762-2265).