What is Zakat?
Zakat is the fifth pillar of Islam and an obligatory wealth-purifying charity, making up 2.5% of any amount above the nisab value, and used to assist the poor.
It is a spiritual duty for all able Muslims who own wealth above a certain threshold, known as the nisab. This Zakat payment is not an option, but a compulsory donation which must be calculated and given annually. Carrying out this noble duty ensures that your provision which you’ve been blessed with is purified, whilst at the same time, it aims to provide relief, assistance and respite to the destitute and needy worldwide.
Mercy Relief currently operates in Yemen, Palestine, Turkiye, Morocco, East-Africa and many countries where we carry out lifesaving operations which are a lifeline to men, women and children. Your Zakat donations will help us to make their lives more bearable as they suffer due to natural disasters, wars and famine.
The best charity
Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.) said “The best charity is to pay Zakat on one's wealth” (Sahih Muslim). By making this noble donation, not only will you be easing the burden on the needy, you will also earn yourself priceless and unmissable rewards.
Zakat FAQs
1. Do I need to pay Zakat?
Do I need to pay Zakat?
Zakat is an obligatory charity that every sane Muslim must pay on his/her money and property. It is a pillar of Islam.
2. How do I know the amount of Zakat I need to pay?
How do I know the amount of Zakat I need to pay?
You work out how much money you have in e.g. cash, assets or business assets and subtract how much you owe in liabilities/expenses. If the total amount is above the Nisab (threshold) you pay Zakat on it.
3. What is Nisab?
What is Nisab?
Nisab is the minimum amount of wealth a Muslim must posses for one to be eligible to pay Zakat.
4. How do you calculate Nisab?
How do you calculate Nisab?
The Nisab (threshold) is based on gold and silver. The amount was set by the Prophet (PBUH) at the value of 87.48 grams of gold or 612.36 grams of silver, in cash.
5. How much Zakat do I need to pay?
How much Zakat do I need to pay?
Your Zakat amount is 2.5% of your zakat eligible wealth.
6. How often do I pay Zakat?
How often do I pay Zakat?
Zakat is paid once a year. It is payable anytime within one lunar year of acquiring the Zakat eligible wealth. Most people prefer to pay it in the holy month of Ramadan to maximise their rewards.