If you’re looking for a simple, hassle-free way to open a bank account without maintaining a minimum balance, an HDFC zero balance account can be an excellent option. HDFC Bank offers several zero-balance variants—ideal for students, salaried employees, first-time account holders, or anyone who wishes to manage money without the pressure of maintaining monthly minimum balance.

In this guide, we break down everything you need to know—from features and benefits to HDFC zero balance account opening online, required documents, eligibility, charges, and more.


What Is an HDFC Zero Balance Account?

An HDFC zero balance account is a type of savings account that does not require a minimum balance. You can keep the balance at ₹0 without penalties. These accounts are designed for customers seeking convenience, digital banking features, and basic financial services without additional maintenance costs.

Depending on the customer category, HDFC offers:

  • HDFC zero balance savings account (various variants)
  • Salary account (zero balance)
  • BSBDA account (Basic Savings Bank Deposit Account)
  • Zero balance current account in HDFC (for small businesses or startups)

Each has its own features and eligibility criteria.


Types of HDFC Zero Balance Accounts

1. HDFC Basic Savings Bank Deposit Account (BSBDA)

The BSBDA is a government-regulated, simplified HDFC 0 balance account suitable for individuals who want an account without charges or balance commitments.

Key Features:

  • No minimum balance
  • Free debit card
  • Free passbook
  • Basic banking services
  • Limited free transactions per month

2. HDFC Zero Balance Salary Account

If your employer has a tie-up with HDFC Bank, you may qualify for a salary account with zero balance.

Benefits include:

  • Zero balance requirement
  • Free debit card
  • Complimentary insurance cover
  • Net banking, UPI, mobile banking
  • Offers on loans & credit cards

3. HDFC Kids/Minor Zero Balance Account

Ideal for parents looking to help children start saving early.

4. HDFC Women Zero Balance Account

Some variants offer special benefits and exclusive rewards.

5. Zero Balance Current Account in HDFC

Designed for freelancers, micro-business owners, and startups with low transaction volumes.


Benefits of HDFC Zero Balance Savings Account

Choosing an HDFC bank zero balance savings account offers several advantages:

  • No minimum balance requirement
  • Free online banking (UPI, NEFT/RTGS/IMPS, bill payments)
  • Debit card access
  • Easy HDFC online account opening
  • Secure digital transactions
  • Wide ATM & branch network across India

Whether you’re opening your first bank account or simply need a no-frills financial solution, an HDFC savings account zero balance is worth considering.


HDFC Zero Balance Account Opening Online: Step-by-Step Guide

HDFC Bank allows you to complete HDFC zero balance account opening online within minutes. The entire process is paperless and uses video KYC.

Step 1: Visit the HDFC Online Account Opening Portal

Go to HDFC Bank’s official website and choose “Open Savings Account” or “HDFC online account opening zero balance” if available for your chosen variant.

Step 2: Fill in Basic Details

Enter your:

  • Name
  • Mobile number
  • Email ID
  • PAN
  • Aadhaar (for e-KYC)

Step 3: Complete Digital Verification

Authenticate with Aadhaar OTP and proceed to complete video KYC—a quick on-camera verification with an HDFC officer.

Step 4: Submit Application

Upload soft copies of required documents. Check details carefully before submitting.

Step 5: Account Activation

Once verified, your HDFC 0 balance account will be activated. You’ll receive your account details by SMS/email.

This method is ideal if you prefer full digital onboarding without visiting a branch.


HDFC Zero Balance Account Opening (Offline Method)

If you prefer in-person assistance:

  1. Visit the nearest HDFC Bank branch
  2. Request the HDFC savings account opening form
  3. Choose the zero balance account option
  4. Submit your documents and passport-size photos
  5. Complete biometric/KYC verification
  6. Collect your passbook & welcome kit

Documents Required for HDFC Zero Balance Savings Account

You’ll need the following:

  • Aadhaar Card
  • PAN Card
  • Passport-size photos
  • Address proof (Aadhaar/Passport/Driving License)
  • For salary accounts: employer letter or salary slip

Ensure your mobile number is linked with Aadhaar for seamless online verification.


Charges & Minimum Balance Requirements

While a zero balance account requires no minimum balance, some variants may include:

  • Transaction limits
  • ATM withdrawal limits
  • Charges for additional services (cheques, DD, etc.)

If you choose a regular HDFC savings account, minimum balance requirements may apply depending on the account type and branch location.

Use this as an opportunity to target keywords like:

  • hdfc bank account opening minimum balance
  • hdfc account open minimum balance

HDFC Zero Balance Current Account (For Businesses)

HDFC also offers a zero balance current account designed for:

  • Freelancers
  • Digital creators
  • Micro businesses
  • New startups

Features may include:

  • No minimum balance
  • Free digital banking
  • Easy UPI collections
  • Optional cash deposit limits

This is ideal for users searching for hdfc 0 balance current account.


Who Should Choose an HDFC Zero Balance Account?

  • Students
  • First-time account holders
  • Salaried employees
  • Seniors wanting a simple account
  • Individuals with irregular income
  • Small digital businesses and freelancers

How to Choose the Right HDFC Zero Balance Account

Consider the following:

  • Do you need a free debit card?
  • Is a salary account applicable to you?
  • Do you prefer entirely online onboarding?
  • Do you perform frequent cash transactions?
  • Is a current account more suitable for your income source?

Final Word

An HDFC zero balance account is one of the most convenient ways to manage your finances without worrying about maintaining a monthly balance. With flexible features, digital banking access, and fast onboarding, HDFC Bank’s offerings suit almost every type of customer—students, professionals, freelancers, and even businesses.

Whether you choose HDFC zero balance account opening online or visit a branch, the setup is simple and user-friendly. Explore the account features, compare the variants, and pick the one that best matches your lifestyle and financial needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I open an HDFC zero balance account online?

Yes, HDFC allows zero balance account opening online through paperless video KYC.

What is the minimum balance requirement?

Zero balance accounts require no minimum balance. Other savings accounts may have minimum balance rules depending on the variant.

Can I convert my HDFC account to a zero balance account?

In most cases, conversion is not allowed unless it is a regulated account like BSBDA.

Does HDFC offer zero balance current accounts?

Yes, HDFC offers select zero balance current accounts for freelancers and small businesses.

How long does online account opening take?

The digital process usually takes 10–15 minutes with instant or same-day activation.

Do zero balance accounts get a debit card?

Yes, most variants include a free debit card. Terms may vary by account type.

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