Complete Zakat Guide

What is Zakat?

Zakat is a mandatory charitable contribution, often considered a tax. It is the third pillar of Islam. Zakat is not just charity; it is a purification of one's wealth and a means to uplift the community.

Who Must Pay?

Every sane, adult Muslim who owns wealth over a certain amount – known as the Nisab – must pay 2.5% of that wealth as Zakat.

• Must meet the Nisab threshold (Value of 87.48g of Gold).
• Wealth must be held for one full lunar year (Hawl).
• Wealth must be free from debt/liabilities.

Who Receives Zakat?

The Holy Qur'an specifies eight categories of people who are eligible to receive Zakat (Al-Tawbah, 9:60):

• The Poor (Faqir)
• The Needy (Miskin)
• Zakat Administrators
• Those whose hearts are to be reconciled
• Those in bondage (slaves/captives)
• Those in debt
• In the cause of Allah
• The Wayfarer (Traveler)