What is BO ID & How to Find it?
- 5 min read
A Demat or dematerialised account helps investors hold purchased securities in the stock market. Once they open their Demat account, a Beneficiary Owner Identification (BO ID) is assigned to investors. It helps to identify the holder of a Demat account. This blog discusses what is BO ID in CDSL and explains the process of how to find it.
Understanding the Meaning of BO ID
Demat account holders registered with Central Depository Services Limited (CDSL) are given a 16-digit unique identifying number known as BO ID. Depository Participants (DP), like stockbrokers, assign this number to identify holders of a Demat account, which is also crucial for all transactions through the Demat account.
The Demat account holder should share this BO ID with anyone to restrict unauthorised access to their Demat account. This identification number helps to keep the statement of the appropriate Demat account secure. You can keep thorough records of your assets and transactions as an investor with the help of this ID.
Importance of BO ID
Just like every Indian citizen needs an Aadhaar and PAN card to avail of most government services, every investor needs a BO ID to trade using a Demat account. It ensures every transaction involving securities has a link with the appropriate account. A BO ID also helps to authorise and validate the transaction of securities within a Demat account.
In addition, having a BO ID facilitates easy portfolio administration and oversight since every transaction and holding is connected with it. This unique identifier is also important to make sure that only the account holder has the authority to approve transactions to stop fraudulent activity.
How is a BO ID Assigned?
The following pointers show how a BO ID is assigned:
- When you open a Demat account with CDSL, you will receive a welcome letter, including your account details and BO ID.
- The 16-digit unique identification number consists of a DP ID, the first eight digits, and a unique client ID, which is the remaining eight digits. For instance, your BO ID will be 1234567802215621 if your DP ID is 12345678 and your unique client ID is 02215621.
- When the new account is activated in the CDSL system using a working email address, a login is generated for it.
- The 16-digit BO ID would serve as the first login ID. An email from CDSL verifying automated and simple registration will be sent to the BO.
How to Find the BO ID?
You can find your BO ID in your respective DP or brokerage platform. There is a common procedure to find this 16-digit unique identifier irrespective of the brokerage platform or DP. The following steps guide you to find your BO ID if you open a Demat account from PL Capital Group – Prabhudas Lilladher:
- Step 1: Open the official application of PL.
- Step 2: Go to the dashboard after logging into your account.
- Step 3: Go to the ‘Account’ section in the bottom right corner of the home page. Now, click on the ‘Profile’ section.
- Step 4: You can find your Demat account details and the 16-digit BO ID.
Difference Between B O ID and Client ID
Your client ID and your BO ID are not the same, but are related to each other. The table below differentiates the BO ID from a client ID:
| Parameters | BO ID | Client ID |
| Meaning | A 16-digit unique identifying number for an individual who has a Demat account. | The last 8 digits of the BO ID of an individual in a Demat account. |
| Purpose | Helps in the transactions of shares and other securities from a DP. | Connects a Demat account to a trading account and makes it easier to identify the account owner. |
| Function | Assists in tracking all the purchased securities and knowing the transaction status. | Identifies the Demat account holder and links their trading activity to it. |
Final Words
Understanding what is BO ID in share market is paramount to starting your investment journey. This 16-digit BO ID helps validate your transactions and makes your portfolio management much easier. You can find your BO ID in your online brokerage application.
Do you want to improve your investment journey by making informed decisions through research-backed recommendations? Open a Demat account for free with PL and avail the brokerage services for equities, currencies, and commodities.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is a BO ID the same as a DP ID?
No, a BO ID is a 16-digit unique identifier for a Demat account holder, and a DP ID is the first 8 digits of it.
2. How many digits does a BO ID have?
A BO ID has a total of 16 digits, of which the first eight are the DP ID and the last eight are the unique client ID.
3. Can I find my BO ID in my trading app?
Yes, you can find your BO ID in your trading app. You have to go to the ‘Account’ section and navigate to the Demat details to find it.
4. Is my BO ID mentioned in my Demat account statement?
Yes, you can find your BO ID in your Demat account statement in the profile section of your DP.
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Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making related decisions.
