Understanding Zakat

Learn about Islamic Zakat and how to fulfill this important pillar of Islam with confidence and accuracy.

What is Zakat?

Zakat is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It requires Muslims to donate 2.5% of their qualifying wealth each year to those in need. Zakat helps purify wealth and bring fairness in society.

The word "Zakat" means purification and growth. By paying Zakat, Muslims demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility and helping the less fortunate.

Why Understanding Zakat Matters

Accurate Zakat calculation ensures you fulfill your Islamic obligation correctly. Understanding the principles behind Zakat—including Nisab, Hawl, and eligible assets—helps you make informed decisions about your charitable giving.

This educational tool and calculator work together to help you understand Zakat and estimate your obligation based on your wealth.

How This Calculator Works

  1. Enter your total zakatable wealth (cash, savings, gold, and other assets)
  2. Choose your preferred currency for calculations
  3. The calculator automatically checks if you meet the Nisab threshold
  4. Get your estimated Zakat obligation (2.5% of qualifying wealth)
  5. View detailed breakdown and plan your payments
  6. Consult with a qualified Islamic scholar for personalized advice

Important: This tool is for educational use and provides estimates. It is not a substitute for consultation with qualified Islamic scholars who can provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation and Islamic school of thought.

Before You Calculate
  • Gather your assets: Collect information about all your cash, savings, gold, silver, investments, and other zakatable wealth.
  • One lunar year requirement: Zakat is due after one Islamic lunar year (Hawl) of wealth ownership. Calculate from your personal Zakat anniversary date.
  • Current market values: Use today's market prices for gold, investments, and other assets for accurate calculations.
Learn more about Zakat calculation →
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Enter Your Assets
Provide details of your wealth and assets

Liquid Wealth

Cash and readily available funds

$

Physical cash you have at home or with you

$

All bank balances, savings, and deposits

Gold & Precious Metals

Gold and silver you own

grams

Total weight of gold jewelry, coins, and bars

$

Total weight of gold jewelry, coins, and bars

$

Current market price in your selected currency

Understanding Zakat Calculation

What is Nisab?

Nisab is the minimum amount of wealth a Muslim must possess for one lunar year before Zakat becomes obligatory. It is equivalent to 85 grams of gold or 595 grams of silver. We use the gold-based Nisab in this calculator.

Zakat Rate

The Zakat rate is 2.5% (or 1/40) of the total qualifying wealth. This applies to cash, savings, gold, silver, and business assets that have been held for one full lunar year.

What Assets Are Subject to Zakat?

  • Cash in hand and bank accounts
  • Savings and investments
  • Gold and silver (including jewelry in some interpretations)
  • Business inventory and trade goods
  • Money lent to others (if recoverable)

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common Zakat questions

What is Nisab?

Nisab is the minimum threshold of wealth that makes Zakat obligatory. It is typically calculated as the value of 85 grams of gold or 595 grams of silver. Your wealth must meet or exceed this threshold to be obligated to pay Zakat.

Who are eligible recipients of Zakat?

Zakat should be distributed to eight categories of people: the poor, the needy, Zakat administrators, those whose hearts are to be reconciled, slaves and those in bondage, debtors, those in the path of Allah, and travelers. Consult with Islamic scholars in your area for proper distribution.

What assets are zakatable?

Zakatable assets typically include cash, bank savings, gold, silver, stocks, business inventory, and rental income. Debts and liabilities can be deducted from your total wealth. This calculator helps you account for all these categories.

How is Hawl (Islamic year) calculated?

Hawl refers to the lunar year (approximately 354 days). Your wealth must be held for one complete Hawl to be subject to Zakat. This calculator assumes you have met the Hawl requirement for your current wealth.

When should I pay Zakat?

Zakat is typically paid during Ramadan or on the anniversary date of when your wealth reached the Nisab threshold. You can choose to pay it all at once or distribute it throughout the year as monthly payments.

Important Disclaimer: This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Results are estimates based on the standard 2.5% rate and should not be considered as professional financial or religious advice. Please consult with qualified Islamic scholars, financial advisors, or your local Zakat committee for personalized guidance on your specific Zakat obligations.