Closing an unused Demat account is a smart financial move to avoid recurring Annual Maintenance Charges (AMC) and simplify your portfolio. As per recent SEBI and NSDL guidelines effective July 2025, the process for online closure has become more standardized, though specific steps vary between brokers like Zerodha, Groww, or traditional banks.
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Pre-Closure Checklist (Mandatory Steps)
Before initiating the request, ensure your account meets these “Clean Slate” requirements. Any mismatch will lead to immediate rejection.
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Zero Holding: You cannot close an account that still holds shares, mutual funds, or ETFs. You must either sell them or transfer them.
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Clear All Dues: Settle any negative ledger balance, unpaid brokerage, or pending AMC fees.
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Deactivate Mandates: Cancel all active SIPs, auto-pay instructions, and pledge requests.
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Download Reports: Once closed, you lose app access. Download your Profit & Loss (P&L) statements and Transaction Ledger for tax filing.
How to Transfer Shares Before Closing
If you have holdings and want to move them to a new broker, use the “Closure-cum-Transfer” method. This is usually free of charge if the account is being closed.
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Get the CMR: Obtain a Client Master Report (CMR) from your new broker (it must be digitally signed/stamped).
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Fill DIS: Complete a Delivery Instruction Slip (DIS) from your old broker.
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Identify Mode: Use Intra-Depository (e.g., CDSL to CDSL) or Inter-Depository (e.g., NSDL to CDSL) instructions.
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Submit: Send the DIS and CMR together to your DP’s head office.
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Demat Account Closure Process: At a Glance
| Step | Online Process (Individual) | Offline Process (Joint/HUF/Minor) |
| Step 1 | Log in to the Console/Profile section. | Download the physical “Account Closure Form.” |
| Step 2 | Click “Close Account” & select reason. | Fill details (DP ID, Client ID, Reason). |
| Step 3 | Verify Holdings (Sell or Transfer). | Attach PAN copy & Address Proof. |
| Step 4 | Aadhaar-based E-Sign via OTP. | All joint holders must sign physically. |
| Step 5 | Processed in 48 hours to 7 days. | Courier form to DP Head Office (7-10 days). |
Step-by-Step Closure Methods
1. Online Closure (For Resident Individuals)
Most modern brokers (Zerodha, Upstox, Groww) allow a fully digital process via Aadhaar E-Sign.
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Navigate: Profile > Account Settings > Close Account.
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Validation: The system checks for zero balance and open positions.
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E-Sign: You will be redirected to the NSDL/CDSL e-sign page. Enter your Aadhaar number and the OTP sent to your linked mobile.
2. Offline Closure (For Joint & Non-Individual Accounts)
Online closure is typically not available for joint accounts, HUFs, or Minors.
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The Form: Use the standardized Form 34 (as per 2025 NSDL Policy).
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Signatures: All account holders must sign. A Power of Attorney (POA) holder cannot sign for account closure.
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Return Kit: You must return any unused physical DIS booklets to the DP.
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Conclusion
Once a Demat account is closed, it cannot be “reopened.” You will have to start a fresh KYC process if you wish to trade again. Per the July 2025 NSDL Circular, DPs must process “Nil Balance” closure requests within two working days of receipt…
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Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes based on current 2025 SEBI/Depository guidelines. Procedures may vary slightly based on your specific Depository Participant (DP). Always check your broker’s official support portal for the latest form versions.
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