Zakat is our Sacred Duty
What is Zakat?
Zakat is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is an obligatory act of worship. It is a fixed percentage (2.5%) of one's wealth that must be given to those in need. Zakat purifies wealth and helps redistribute resources to support the less fortunate in society.
Current Nisab Value
The Nisab is the minimum amount of wealth one must possess before Zakat becomes obligatory. It is equivalent to the value of 85 grams of gold or 595 grams of silver at current market prices. Use our Zakat calculator for an up-to-date estimate based on current values.
Zakat Al-Fitrana (Fitrana)
Zakat Al-Fitr (Fitrana) is a separate obligation paid at the end of Ramadan before the Eid prayer. It is paid on behalf of oneself and dependents (e.g. spouse, children) to enable the poor to celebrate Eid. You can pay your Fitrana through our Zakat Al Fitr page.
Who Must Pay Zakat?
Zakat is obligatory for every adult Muslim who:
- Is of sound mind
- Owns wealth above the Nisab threshold
- Has held that wealth for a full lunar year
Who Can Receive Zakat?
According to the Quran, Zakat can be given to eight categories of people:
- The poor (Al-Fuqara)
- The needy (Al-Masakin)
- Those employed to collect Zakat
- Those whose hearts are to be reconciled
- Those in bondage (slaves and captives)
- Those in debt
- In the cause of Allah
- The wayfarer (traveler in need)
Zakat FAQ
What is Zakat?
Zakat is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It is an obligatory act of charity requiring Muslims to give 2.5% of their qualifying wealth to those in need.
Who must pay Zakat?
Every adult Muslim who owns wealth above the Nisab threshold (equivalent to 85 grams of gold or 595 grams of silver) and has held it for a full lunar year must pay Zakat.
What is the Nisab?
The Nisab is the minimum amount of wealth one must possess before Zakat becomes obligatory. It is calculated based on the current market value of gold or silver.
How much Zakat do I need to pay?
Zakat is 2.5% (or 1/40) of your total qualifying wealth that has been held for one lunar year.
What assets are included in Zakat calculation?
Zakat is calculated on cash, gold, silver, business assets, investments, and other liquid assets. Personal items like your home, car, and clothing are generally not included.
When should I pay Zakat?
Zakat should be paid once a year after your wealth has been held for a full lunar year. Many Muslims choose to pay during Ramadan for the increased reward.
Who can receive Zakat?
Zakat can be given to eight categories: the poor, the needy, those employed to collect Zakat, those whose hearts are to be reconciled, those in bondage, those in debt, in the cause of Allah, and the wayfarer.
Can I give Zakat to family members?
You cannot give Zakat to your immediate family (parents, children, spouse) or ancestors/descendants. However, you can give to other relatives who qualify.
Is Zakat the same as Sadaqah?
No. Zakat is obligatory and has specific rules, while Sadaqah is voluntary charity that can be given at any time, in any amount, to anyone.
How do I calculate Zakat on gold?
Calculate the current market value of your gold. If the total value of your gold (along with other assets) exceeds the Nisab threshold, you must pay 2.5% of the total value.