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Zakat Facts

What is Zakat?

Zakat is a mandatory charity required of all adult Muslims who meet the Nisab threshold. It is the Third Pillar of Islam and refers to the obligatory payment of Zakat in Islam, distinguishing it from voluntary acts of generosity like Sadaqah. The Zakat definition encompasses the act of purifying one’s wealth by giving a portion of it to those in need, as prescribed by Islamic law.

There are specific Zakat rules that determine who is eligible for Zakat and who qualifies for Zakat. These regulations ensure that the donation reaches deserving recipients, as outlined in the Qur'an. Zakat should not be confused with Zakat al-Fitr, a separate mandatory donation made ahead of Eid al-Fitr.

Below are answers to frequently asked questions about Zakat, including when to pay Zakat and who can you give Zakat to.

Zakat Meaning

The term Zakat translates as “that which purifies,” emphasising its role in cleansing wealth and purifying the soul. It is an annual obligation in Islam, applying to disposable income, qualifying property and other assets once the Nisab threshold is met.

When to Pay Zakat

Zakat is due after a full lunar year has passed since reaching the Nisab threshold. There is no specific time frame for when to pay Zakat, though many Muslims choose to make their donation during Ramadan to gain extra blessings.

Who Can You Give Zakat To?

Allah (SWT) has specified eight categories of eligible recipients for Zakat:

  • The wayfarer – travellers in need.
  • In the path of Allah (SWT) – for causes that align with Islamic principles.
  • Those in debt – individuals struggling to repay legitimate debts.
  • Those in bondage – captives and enslaved people.
  • New Muslims and allies – individuals who have recently embraced Islam or are supportive of the Muslim community.
  • Zakat administrators – those responsible for collecting and distributing Zakat.
  • The needy (al-masakin) – individuals facing hardship.
  • The poor (al-fuqara) – those with little to no income.

Mosques and educational institutions do not qualify for Zakat unless the individuals directly benefiting meet the eligibility criteria.

Zakat-al-Fitr 2025

Unlike Zakat, Zakat al-Fitr (Fitrana) is a donation made before the Eid prayer at the end of Ramadan. For 2025, Eid-al-Fitr is expected on or around 30 March, and the donation must be made beforehand to benefit the deserving in time.

Can Zakat Be Donated for Education?

Zakat cannot be donated directly to schools or institutions, but it can be given to eligible students who qualify for Zakat under Islamic rules.

Can You Pay Zakat on Someone Else’s Behalf?

Yes, Zakat can be paid on someone else’s behalf, such as a husband paying for his wife, provided she authorises the payment.

By understanding the Zakat definition, the guidelines surrounding its distribution, and who is eligible for Zakat, Muslims can fulfil their religious obligation and support those in need effectively.

Can a Son Receive Zakat from His Mother? 

A son is not eligible to receive Zakat from his mother as it is not permissible for someone to make a charitable donation towards their dependents. Dependents such as children do not have the financial means to support themselves, meaning parents are obliged to do so. Zakat can be given to other relatives who do not come in the category of dependents.  

Can My Husband/Wife Receive My Zakat? 

If a husband falls under one of the eligibility categories regarding Zakat, his wife may donate her Zakat to him. However, a husband is not permitted to donate his Zakat to his wife as he is required to support her financially.  

Can My Uncle or Aunt Receive My Zakat? 

Uncles or aunts who fall under one of the eight categories may receive Zakat donations. This is because nephews and nieces are not automatically obliged to support their uncles and aunts. For this reason, aunts and uncles may also donate their Zakat to eligible nephews and nieces. 

Can Our Parents Receive Our Zakat? 

Like parents are not allowed to donate their Zakat to their children, the same applies in this case. As children enter adulthood, they are obligated to support their parents in return for the care that they received in their childhood.  

Can Brothers or Sisters Receive Our Zakat? 

There is no set rule that siblings must care for one another, meaning Zakat can be donated to any qualifying sisters or brothers. 

Can a Syed Receive Zakat? 

The Qur’an dictates that descendants of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) cannot receive Zakat or any other charitable donations. This still applies, even if they are considered poor. They can receive financial help from their Muslim Brothers and Sisters should they find themselves in difficulty. As long as this isn’t regarded as an act of charity, the aid is permitted. 

Does Zakat Need to Be Paid on Land? 

Family homes and business premises do not contribute to Zakat costs. However, land that produces revenue (e.g., a let-out property) is an asset, meaning Zakat applies to the generated income. 

Similarly, land that has been bought with the intention of selling is considered commercial goods. As a result, Zakat applies. This will be calculated via the land’s value. 

How Many Types of Zakat in Islam? 

Zakat refers to two types: Zakat-al-Mal and Zakat-al-Fitr. Zakat-al-Mal is the obligatory annual payment that can be made at any time. However, Zakat-al-Fitr (Fitrana) must be made during Ramadan, ahead of the Eid prayer. 

Can You Donate Your Zakat to Muslim Aid? 

Yes, Muslim Aid accepts your Zakat donations here.

How to Calculate Zakat? 

Zakat is calculated on the amount that is in a person’s possession after one lunar year has passed. It is calculated at the rate of 2.5 percent of the total wealth or money. To work out your Zakat, use Muslim Aid’s Zakat calculator.

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