What is BO ID in Zerodha?

Just opened a Zerodha account and came across the term BO ID? Don't worry, you're not alone. For many new investors in India, this can feel like one of those confusing terms that nobody explains properly. Let’s simplify it. BO ID is basically your stock locker number. Just like your bank account holds your money, your Demat account holds your shares. And your BO ID? That’s the number for your share locker. Here, we will learn what is BO ID in Zerodha.
About BO ID in Zerodha
BO ID stands for Beneficiary Owner Identification Number. Think of it like your account number in the stock market world. Just like your bank gives you an account number to keep track of your money, the stock depository (like CDSL) gives you a BO ID to keep track of your shares.
For example, imagine your Demat account is a locker in a bank. The BO ID is the locker number. This locker holds your shares instead of gold or cash.
Where to Find BO ID in Zerodha?
Here are the step-by-step guidelines on how to find your BO ID in Zerodha:
1. Open the Zerodha App.
2. Tap on the profile icon.
3. Click on the profile option.
4. Now you can see your Demat (BO ID) on your screen.
Where to Find BO ID in Zerodha Desktop Web?
Here are the step-by-step guidelines for desktop website:
- Go to the official website of Zerodha.
- Enter your password and tap on the login button.
- Now, enter the mobile app code and tap on the Continue button.
- Tap on the User ID icon.
- Now, tap on your name.
- Here, you can view your BO ID through the official website.
BO ID Format in Zerodha
Zerodha is linked with CDSL, one of the two big depositories in India (the other one is NSDL). So your BO ID is a 16-digit number. Here’s what it looks like: 12081600XXXXYYYY
- First 8 digits: 12081600. This is Zerodha’s DP ID (Like your bank’s branch code, which is always 12081600.
- Last 8 digits: XXXXYYYY. This is your personal Demat account number
In short,
- BO ID = DP ID + Demat Account Number
- Total = 16 digits
So if someone asks for your BO ID, give them the full 16-digit number.
Where to Use BO ID in Zerodha?
Your BO ID is used in many places:
- Applying for IPOs (through apps like Paytm, Groww, SBI YONO, etc.)
- Linking your account with CDSL (for eDIS approvals)
- KYC verification or updates
- Adding or removing a nominee
So keep this number handy whenever you're doing something related to your Demat account.
Importance of BO ID
Your BO ID plays a key role in your stock market journey. Here's why it's important:
- Track Your Holdings: With the BO ID, you can check all the shares you hold in your Zerodha account. It's like checking the items inside your locker.
- Unique Identity: Every time you buy or sell a share, the transaction happens through your Demat account. BO ID is used to identify you during this process.
- Receive Benefits: If a company announces dividends, bonuses, or stock splits, those are sent to the Demat account linked with your BO ID. So, this number ensures you get what you're entitled to.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your BO ID in Zerodha is just your Demat account number where your shares are stored. Whenever you apply for an IPO or deal with CDSL, you’ll need this number. Just remember: BO ID = 12081600 + your 8-digit Demat number.