Zakat Calculator – Islamic Charity Calculation
Calculate your Zakat obligation based on Islamic principles
This calculator provides estimates only. Consult a qualified Islamic scholar for specific rulings.
Table of Contents
How to Use
- Enter the current gold price per gram in your currency
- Enter your cash and bank savings
- Enter the value of your gold and silver
- Add investments, business assets, and money owed to you
- Subtract any debts or liabilities
- Click calculate to see your Zakat due
What is Zakat?
Zakat is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is an obligatory form of charity for Muslims who meet certain wealth criteria. The word 'Zakat' means 'purification' and 'growth' in Arabic.
Muslims who possess wealth above the nisab threshold for one lunar year are required to pay 2.5% of their zakatable wealth to those in need. It serves as both a spiritual purification and a means of social welfare.
Understanding Nisab
Nisab is the minimum amount of wealth a Muslim must possess before Zakat becomes obligatory. It is measured in gold or silver:
- Gold nisab: 85 grams (approximately 3 ounces)
- Silver nisab: 595 grams (approximately 21 ounces)
- Most scholars recommend using the gold standard
- Nisab must be exceeded for one lunar year
- The value changes based on current metal prices
What Wealth is Zakatable?
| Asset Type | Zakatable | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cash & Bank Savings | Yes | All liquid funds |
| Gold & Silver | Yes | Jewelry intended for investment |
| Stocks & Investments | Yes | Current market value |
| Business Inventory | Yes | Goods for trade |
| Rental Property Income | Yes | Net rental income |
| Personal Residence | No | Not zakatable |
| Personal Jewelry (worn) | Disputed | Varies by school |
| Retirement Accounts | Disputed | Consult a scholar |
Who Can Receive Zakat?
The Quran specifies eight categories of people eligible to receive Zakat (Surah At-Tawbah, 9:60):
- The poor (Al-Fuqara) - Those with little to no income
- The needy (Al-Masakin) - Those who cannot meet basic needs
- Zakat administrators - Those who collect and distribute
- Those whose hearts are to be reconciled - New Muslims
- Those in bondage - To free from slavery/debt
- Those in debt - Unable to pay their debts
- In the cause of Allah - Various charitable causes
- Travelers in need - Those stranded during travel
Frequently Asked Questions
- When should I pay Zakat?
- Zakat should be paid once your wealth has exceeded the nisab threshold for one complete lunar year (Hawl). Many Muslims choose to pay during Ramadan for increased blessings, but it can be paid at any time once due.
- Is Zakat the same as Sadaqah?
- No. Zakat is obligatory charity with specific rules about amount (2.5%) and eligibility. Sadaqah is voluntary charity with no fixed amount or requirements. Both are highly encouraged in Islam.
- Can I pay Zakat to family members?
- You cannot pay Zakat to immediate dependents (parents, spouse, children). However, you may give to extended family members who qualify as Zakat recipients, such as poor siblings, uncles, or cousins.
- How is Zakat on investments calculated?
- For stocks and investments, calculate Zakat on the current market value at the time of payment. For business goods, use the wholesale price. Consult a scholar for complex investment vehicles.