What is Zakat?

Zakat is one of the Five Pillars of Islam—an obligatory act of worship that purifies wealth and supports those in need. It is a fixed portion (typically 2.5%) of one’s savings and qualifying assets that must be given annually to eligible recipients.

Zakat Calculation

Zakat is due at 2.5% (or 1/40) of your Zakatable wealth once it has been in your possession for one full lunar year (Hawl) and exceeds the Nisab threshold. Nisab is the minimum amount that makes Zakat obligatory—often calculated in gold (approx. 87.48 grams) or silver (approx. 612.36 grams) or their cash equivalent.

Common Zakatable assets include:

• Cash (in hand or in bank)
• Gold and silver (ornaments or bullion)
• Investments (stocks, shares, business inventory)
• Money lent to others (that you expect to receive back)

Deduct any immediate debts and personal/family needs, then calculate 2.5% of the remainder. For exact Nisab values and step-by-step guides, consult a local scholar or a reliable Zakat calculator.

Who Can Receive Zakat?

The Quran specifies eight categories of recipients (Surah At-Tawbah, 9:60). Among them are the poor (Fuqara), the needy (Masakin), those in debt, and those working in the cause of Allah—including organizations that serve the poor and needy in a Shariah-compliant manner.

Give Your Zakat Through Helpline

You can fulfill your Zakat obligation by donating to Helpline. We channel Zakat to students, families, and communities in need— helping with fees, health expenses, ration, and welfare projects. Your Zakat builds lasting change.