What Is a BSDA (Basic Services Demat Account)?
BSDA is a low-cost demat account for small investors. Eligibility, holding limits and the AMC caps under SEBI's revised framework.
What BSDA is
A Basic Services Demat Account (BSDA) is a type of demat account introduced by SEBI to reduce the cost of holding securities for small investors.
Eligibility
- An individual who holds only one demat account (as sole or first holder) across all depositories.
- The value of securities in the account must be within the BSDA limit.
AMC limits under the revised framework
Following SEBI's revision (as communicated by CDSL to its DPs in 2024), the BSDA holding limit is ₹10 lakh, with AMC capped as follows:
| Value of holdings | Maximum AMC |
|---|---|
| Up to ₹4,00,000 | Nil |
| ₹4,00,001 to ₹10,00,000 | ₹100 per year |
| Above ₹10,00,000 | Account treated as a regular demat account |
Debt securities and some other holdings are valued in a specific way for this purpose; your DP will explain how your holdings are valued.
BSDA at brokers we review
Several brokers publish their BSDA terms — for example Zerodha and Angel One list nil AMC up to ₹4 lakh and ₹100 a year from ₹4–10 lakh. Details are on each broker review.
How to get BSDA
Many DPs are required to offer BSDA to eligible clients and may convert eligible accounts automatically. Otherwise, ask your broker to convert your account.
Frequently asked questions
Can I have a BSDA if I have two demat accounts?
No. BSDA eligibility requires that you hold only one demat account as sole or first holder.
Is BSDA different from a regular demat account in features?
No. You can buy, sell and hold securities as usual. The difference is the AMC structure and eligibility conditions.
Sources
- CDSL communiqué on SEBI's revised BSDA framework — accessed 30 September 2026
- Zerodha – Charges (statutory charges table) — accessed 30 September 2026
- Angel One – Charges — accessed 30 September 2026