Zakat, the third pillar of Islam, is generally a yearly payment of 2.5% on wealth above a set threshold. The Qur'an teaches:
“Indeed, those who believe and do righteous deeds and establish prayer and give Zakah will have their reward with their Lord, and there will be no fear concerning them, nor will they grieve.”
This verse from Surah Al-Baqarah links belief in Allah with both prayer and Zakat: the three do not exist independently. Believing in Allah is supported by both regular prayer and yearly almsgiving, and doing so brings reward with Allah as well as freedom from fear or grief, affecting both worldly life and the Hereafter.
How much wealth means Zakat is due?
Zakat is mentioned in thirty-two places in the Qur'an, but the detail on how much to pay, who must pay, and who is eligible to receive it comes from the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ. Generally, Zakat is 2.5% of wealth (for example, money in savings, gold and silver jewellery, or livestock) once it reaches a minimum amount known as the nisab. The nisab was set by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ at the equivalent of 87.48 grams of gold or 612.36 grams of silver. Because currency values fluctuate, it's important to check the current monetary equivalent when your Zakat is due.
How do you calculate your Zakat?
Online zakat calculators, offered by many Islamic charities, make this straightforward: they guide you through what counts as wealth and any subtractions to make. They're free to use, and there's no obligation to give your Zakat to the charity providing the calculator.
When is Zakat due each year?
Zakat is due yearly according to the lunar calendar: if it was first paid on the 3rd of Ramadan, that is the date it becomes due again each year, so it's worth noting the date. Many people choose to pay their Zakat during particularly blessed times of the year, such as Ramadan or the days of Dhul-Hijjah, when reward is known to be multiplied.
“The Believers, men and women, are protectors one of another: they enjoin what is just and forbid what is evil: they observe regular prayers, pay their Zakat and obey Allah and His Messenger. On them will Allah pour His Mercy: for Allah is Exalted in power, Wise.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage is Zakat?
Zakat is generally 2.5% of wealth above the nisab threshold, paid once a year.
What is the nisab threshold?
The minimum amount of wealth that makes Zakat due, set by the Prophet ﷺ at the equivalent of 87.48 grams of gold or 612.36 grams of silver, checked against the current monetary value.
When exactly is my Zakat due?
Zakat is due yearly on the lunar calendar date it was first paid: for example, if first paid on the 3rd of Ramadan, it becomes due again on that date each year.
Can I use an online zakat calculator?
Yes. Many Islamic charities offer free calculators, and there's no obligation to give your Zakat to that particular charity.
