How do you transfer shares to Zerodha? You can move shares from another broker to Zerodha in two ways: closure-cum-transfer (free, if you are also closing your old Demat account) or off-market transfer via CDSL Easiest or a DIS slip (if you want to keep your old account). Transfers usually take 1 to 3 business days. This guide covers both methods, the documents, charges, and common mistakes.
Ways to transfer shares to Zerodha
Closure-cum-transfer
This is the recommended method if you plan to close your existing Demat account.
- Request closure-cum-transfer forms from your current broker.
- Get your Zerodha CMR copy (digitally or physically signed).
- Submit both to your old broker.
- Your holdings transfer to Zerodha and your old account closes.
The name and sequence of holders must match exactly in both accounts.
Is this free? Yes, if you use closure-cum-transfer while closing your old Demat account.
Off-market transfer
Can I transfer without closing the old Demat? Yes, that is what an off-market transfer allows. You can move some or all of your shares to Zerodha while keeping your existing account. It supports both CDSL and NSDL depositories, through CDSL Easiest or a DIS slip.
CDSL Easiest (only if your current broker is a CDSL participant):
- Register and log in at CDSL.
- Add Zerodha as a trusted account using its BO ID.
- Choose the ISINs, and enter the execution date, quantity, and reason.
- Commit the transaction with OTP and your 8-digit PIN.
DIS (used when CDSL Easiest is unavailable, or your old broker is with NSDL):
- Get the DIS (Delivery Instruction Slip) booklet from your old broker.
- Fill in Zerodha’s Demat details and share information (ISIN, quantity).
- Submit the form to your broker for processing.
Use inter-depository slips for NSDL to CDSL transfers, and intra-depository slips for CDSL to CDSL.
How long does it take? Usually 1 to 3 business days after your existing broker approves the request, varying slightly by method and broker responsiveness.
Documents required
- Zerodha CMR copy
- DIS slip from your old broker (for offline transfers)
- PAN card
- 16-digit Zerodha Demat number
- Email and mobile number registered with both brokers
Joint, minor, or corporate accounts may need extra documentation. Joint accounts can transfer as long as the primary and secondary holders match; minor accounts can transfer with valid documentation, with both accounts belonging to the same minor and guardian.
Charges and timeline
| Charge type | Amount | When it applies |
|---|---|---|
| Off-market transfer charge | ₹25 + 18% GST per ISIN, per transaction | Transferring shares via DIS slip or CDSL Easiest |
| Stamp duty | 0.015% of transfer value | Applied by CDSL for off-market transfers |
| Rematerialisation fee | ₹150 + 18% GST per folio | Transferring mutual funds held in physical (SOA) form |
| Closure-cum-transfer | Usually free | Closing your old Demat account and moving all holdings |
| CMR copy from Zerodha | First copy free | Required by the old broker; charges apply for extra copies |
| Courier charges | ₹100 + 18% GST | Only if physical documents are couriered |
Is there a daily transfer limit? No. There is no fixed daily limit; you can transfer any number or value of shares in one day, subject to your broker’s rules.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Selling shares during the transfer, which can cause failure or an auction penalty.
- Insufficient funds in your Zerodha account, as charges won’t process on a negative balance.
- Transferring from frozen or dormant accounts (complete Re-KYC if needed).
- Forgetting to cancel SIPs, especially when transferring mutual funds.
- Incorrect or missing Demat details, so always verify your Zerodha Demat number.
Can Zerodha reject a transfer? Yes, if the Demat details don’t match or the CMR is missing or incorrect.
For a full breakdown of the broker, see our detailed Zerodha review.
Conclusion
Transferring shares to Zerodha is straightforward once you pick the right method. Use closure-cum-transfer if you are closing your old Demat account, as it is free and efficient. For partial transfers while keeping your existing account, use off-market transfer via CDSL Easiest or DIS. Make sure your Demat details match, your documents are ready, and you avoid mistakes like transferring while selling shares, and your holdings should reflect in Zerodha within a few days.
Frequently asked questions
How many days does an off-market transfer take? Usually 1 to 3 business days once approved by the existing broker.
Is Zerodha with CDSL or NSDL? Zerodha is a CDSL participant.
Can I transfer mutual funds to Zerodha? Yes, if they are in Demat form. ELSS and locked-in units require closure-cum-transfer.
Can I track transfer status in Kite? Transferred shares appear under Holdings in both Kite and Console once credited.
Can I transfer IPO-allotted shares to Zerodha? Yes. Once allotted, IPO shares appear in the Demat account mapped to your application.
- This review is for informational purposes only. TradingCritique does not currently offer broker referrals for India-domiciled brokers and has no affiliate relationship with the broker discussed.
