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Decoding the unique identifier that links investors to their demat holdings in India's securities market.
As India continues its shift toward a digitised financial ecosystem, dematerialisation of shares has become the norm, simplifying how investors hold and manage their securities. At the heart of this system lies a vital component known as the Beneficial Owner Identification Number, or BO ID. Whether you’re applying for an IPO, receiving dividends, or simply tracking your investments, the BO ID serves as your unique identifier in the depository framework.
In this comprehensive guide, we explore what the BO ID is, why it’s important, how it works within CDSL and NSDL systems, and how to retrieve or secure it.
The Beneficial Owner Identification Number (BO ID) is a 16-digit unique number assigned to every demat account holder. It identifies the owner of the securities held in dematerialised form through a depository. The BO ID is essential for tracking holdings, receiving corporate benefits like dividends or bonuses, and participating in public offerings.
In CDSL: The BO ID is a 16-digit numeric number.
In NSDL: The number is split into two components:
DP ID: First 8 digits (alphanumeric)
Client ID: Last 8 digits (numeric)
Together, these segments form the full 16-digit BO ID used for identification across all demat-related activities.
The BO ID links your identity to your demat holdings. It acts like a virtual address that the Depository Participant (DP) uses to locate your account.
You need your BO ID to:
Apply for IPOs
Sell or buy securities
Receive dividends and bonus issues
Reconcile holdings with your broker
Access demat account statements
The BO ID is mapped under KYC norms and reported to SEBI, enabling compliance, audit trails, and risk controls in the securities market.
Your DP will share your BO ID via email or in your physical welcome letter once your demat account is opened.
Most brokers display your BO ID on your dashboard. Example:
Zerodha: Navigate to Profile > My Profile > DP ID & BO ID
Groww: Go to ‘My Account’ > Profile > Demat Details
Visit: https://www.cdslindia.com
Click on ‘Login to – New System (BO)’
Enter PAN and OTP
Access BO ID under ‘My Account’ section
NSDL typically displays the DP ID + Client ID combination; this can be confirmed with your DP.
Your BO ID is printed on monthly or quarterly demat account statements shared by your DP.
Depository Participant Identification Number, assigned by the depository (CDSL/NSDL) to your broker or intermediary.
The unique code given to you by the DP; it identifies your specific account.
In CDSL: BO ID = Entire 16-digit numeric string
In NSDL: BO ID = DP ID (8 digits) + Client ID (8 digits)
CDSL BO ID: 1203450001234567
NSDL BO ID: IN303123 | 12345678
All dividends, rights, or bonus issues are credited based on the BO ID.
The BO ID is required when filling IPO forms through UPI or ASBA. Incorrect BO ID can lead to application rejection.
Helps ensure that securities bought are correctly credited to your demat account.
Used by SEBI and depositories for investor-related communication and alerts.
Treat it like your bank account number. Share only when required.
Access your demat account or CDSL/NSDL portals periodically to check for unauthorised activity.
Activate SMS and email alerts for transactions to detect fraud early.
Avoid storing BO ID with login passwords in unsecured locations.
Check demat account statement
Login to broker or depository portal
Contact your DP with PAN and KYC documents
Results in rejected application or non-allotment
Double-check with broker before submission
Likely due to wrong DP code or old DP ID used
Verify with your DP and request correction
Refer the following table:
Feature |
CDSL BO ID |
NSDL BO ID |
|---|---|---|
Structure |
16-digit numeric |
8-digit DP ID + 8-digit Client ID |
Example |
1203450001234567 |
IN30312312345678 |
Use Format |
Directly usable |
Combined by investor |
Depository Prefix |
No letters |
Starts with 'IN' |
Your BO ID is a foundational element in the Indian depository system. It uniquely identifies you as the beneficial owner of the securities you hold in your demat account. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced investor, knowing what your BO ID is, how to locate it or use it securely is essential to managing your investments confidently. As the securities ecosystem continues to grow more digital and efficient, understanding identifiers like the BO ID ensures you stay connected, compliant, and in control.
This content is for educational purposes only and the same should not be construed as investment advice. Bajaj Finserv Direct Limited shall not be liable or responsible for any investment decision that you may take based on this content.
CDSL India – BO ID Access
NSDL – Investor Education
SEBI – Depository Regulations
Groww – BO ID Support
Zerodha – DP ID and BO ID
Angel One – BO ID Meaning
BO ID stands for Beneficial Owner Identification Number.
No, BO ID in CDSL is a direct 16-digit number, whereas NSDL combines DP ID and Client ID.
You can find it via your broker’s dashboard, demat statement, or official CDSL/NSDL login portals.
Yes, if you have multiple demat accounts across different brokers or depositories.
Yes, it is mandatory for IPO applications under ASBA or UPI-linked methods.
