How we use your zakat

Your zakat could be used to help fight poverty through sustainable change or provide immediate emergency relief when crisis hits. In the face of hunger, conflict, poverty or disaster, your zakat will help to build healthier, stronger communities all over the world.

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Zakat Calculator

Zakat al-mal, commonly known as zakat, is a charitable donation that eligible Muslims are required to make and it is one of the five pillars of Islam. One of the most common questions we get asked when it comes to zakat, is how much do I need to pay? The simple answer is that Muslims are required to pay 2.5% on their surplus wealth each year. Calculate how much zakat you need to pay by using our Zakat Calculator below!

Zakat Calculator

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Zakat FAQs

What is nisab?

Nisab is the minimum amount of wealth a Muslim must have—after calculating necessary expenses—to be eligible to contribute zakat. Nisab is equivalent to the value of 3 ounces of gold. The nisab we’ve calculated for our zakat calculator is based on the most recent report available to us (disclaimer: this number may change daily depending on fluctuations in the gold exchange rate).

Who is obligated to pay zakat?


When should I pay zakat?


What’s the difference between zakat al-mal and zakat al-fitr?

Zakat al-mal (commonly called “zakat“) is due when a person’s wealth reaches the nisab amount and can be paid anytime during the year. Zakat al-fitr is paid by the head of the household for each member of the family, before Eid al-fitr prayer. Zakat al-fitr is about the price of one meal.

On whose behalf do I have to pay zakat al-fitr?

Zakat al-fitr should be paid on behalf of everyone in the family. There are some scholars that recommend that Zakat al-fitr is also paid on behalf of unborn children after the 120th day of pregnancy, but do not view it as obligatory. Most scholars do agree, however, that zakat al-fitr should be paid on behalf of the baby after his/her birth. Please do consult with your local imam or scholar for further clarification.

When should I pay my zakat al-fitr?

It should be paid before Eid prayer (or any day during Ramadan). There are some schools of thought that also allow for zakat al-fitr to be paid even before Ramadan. Consult with your local imam or scholar if you need additional information.

What is zakat?

In Arabic, zakat means purification, growth and blessing. It is a charitable practice that requires all able Muslims (those who meet the requirement of zakat as dependent upon nisab and hawl see below) to contribute a fixed portion of their wealth – 2.5% of savings — to help the needy.

"Of their goods, take zakat, so that you may purify and sanctify them." – Qur'an 9:103

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