Zakat Calculator
Calculate your annual Zakat obligation. Enter your assets and current gold/silver prices to find how much Zakat is due.
Currency & Metal Prices
Your Assets (USD)
Deductible Debts (USD)
Only immediate debts (due within the year) are deductible, not long-term liabilities like mortgages.
Important Note
This calculator is a guide only. For personal Zakat rulings, please consult a qualified Islamic scholar or your local mosque. Metal prices change daily — use current market rates.
Quick Reference
- Zakat rate2.5%
- Gold Nisab85 grams
- Silver Nisab595 grams
- Holding period1 Hijri year
What is Zakat? The Third Pillar of Islam
Zakat (Arabic: زكاة) is the third of the Five Pillars of Islam and one of the most important acts of worship in the Islamic faith. It is an obligatory annual payment made by eligible Muslims on their accumulated wealth above a minimum threshold (Nisab) — calculated at 2.5% of the total zakatable wealth held for a full lunar year (Hawl).
The word Zakat comes from the Arabic root meaning "purification" and "growth." By paying Zakat, a Muslim purifies their remaining wealth and acknowledges that all wealth ultimately belongs to Allah. The Quran commands Zakat in many verses, including: "Establish prayer and give Zakat, and whatever good you put forward for yourselves — you will find it with Allah." (Al-Baqarah 2:110)
The Eight Categories of Zakat Recipients
Allah designates eight categories of Zakat recipients in the Quran (At-Tawbah 9:60):
- Al-Fuqara — the poor who have less than the Nisab
- Al-Masakin — the needy who cannot meet their basic needs
- Al-Amilin alayha — administrators who collect and distribute Zakat
- Al-Muallafatu qulubuhum — those whose hearts are being reconciled to Islam
- Fi Al-Riqab — freeing people from bondage or slavery
- Al-Gharimin — those in debt who cannot repay
- Fi Sabilillah — those striving in the way of Allah
- Ibn Al-Sabil — stranded travelers in need
Frequently Asked Questions About Zakat
What is Zakat?
Zakat is the third pillar of Islam — an obligatory annual charity of 2.5% on wealth that has been held for one full lunar year and exceeds the Nisab (minimum threshold). It purifies wealth and redistributes it to those in need.
What is the Nisab threshold?
The Nisab is the minimum amount of wealth you must own before Zakat becomes obligatory. It is equivalent to 85 grams of gold or 595 grams of silver. Most scholars recommend using the silver Nisab as it includes more people and benefits more of those in need.
What assets are subject to Zakat?
Zakat applies to: gold and silver, cash and savings, business inventory and trade goods, investments and stocks, and rental income (on accumulated profits). Zakat does not apply to your primary residence, personal vehicle, furniture, or tools of your trade.
When must Zakat be paid?
Zakat becomes due after one full Hijri lunar year (Hawl) has passed on wealth that continuously exceeds the Nisab. Many Muslims pay their Zakat during Ramadan for the additional spiritual reward, though it can be paid at any time.
Who are the recipients of Zakat?
The Quran (9:60) specifies eight categories: the poor (Fuqara), the needy (Masakin), Zakat administrators, those whose hearts are to be reconciled, those in bondage, those in debt, those striving in the way of Allah, and travelers in need.
Is Zakat the same as Sadaqah?
No. Zakat is obligatory (Fard) — a specific annual amount calculated on eligible wealth. Sadaqah is voluntary charity given at any time in any amount. Both are highly encouraged in Islam, but only Zakat is a pillar of the faith.