1 · Why This Guide?
Searching for “zakat calculator” often returns outdated tools or thin content. This 3 k‑word guide solves that by offering:
- A razor‑accurate calculator that updates nisab automatically.
- Step‑by‑step visuals so even first‑time givers feel confident.
- Content vetted by a certified fiqh consultant (Sh. Muhammad Ibn Farid, MSc Fiqh & Usul).
Download the Zakat Calculator Code
2 · What Is Zakat?
Zakat (زكاة) is the third pillar of Islam. The Arabic root z‑k‑w means purity, growth, and increase. Paying zakat purifies:
- Your wealth – removing stinginess and doubtful earnings.
- Your soul – drawing you nearer to Allah while uplifting society’s most vulnerable.
Goals of Zakat
- Wealth Redistribution – channels surplus to the eight Qur’anic beneficiary categories (Q 9 : 60).
- Social Solidarity – reduces resentment, fosters trust.
- Economic Circulation – idle savings re‑enter the market via charitable spending.
“It is better for you to leave your heirs rich than to leave them poor, begging from others.” — Muslim (1628)
3 · Who Must Pay Zakat?
| Condition | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Islam | Non‑Muslims are exempt. |
| Freedom & Sanity | Classical jurists exclude slaves and those lacking legal capacity. |
| Ownership (Al‑Milkiyya) | Full possession and disposal rights over the wealth. |
| Nisab Held for One Lunar Year | Asset’s net value stays above nisab for ~354 days. |
4 · Understanding Nisab & Zakat Rates
Current Nisab (July 2025)
- Gold standard: 85 g × $106.50 / g = $9,052.50
- Silver standard: 595 g × $1.22 / g = $725.90
Tip: Using silver broadens the payer base and benefits the needy; if hardship arises, gold is permissible.
Standard Rates
| Asset Type | Rate | Proof |
|---|---|---|
| Money, trade goods, gold, silver | 2.5 % | Abū Dāwūd (1573) |
| Agricultural produce (rain‑fed) | 10 % | Q 6 : 141 |
| Agricultural produce (irrigated) | 5 % | Q 6 : 141 |
| Treasure trove (rikāz) | 20 % | Bukhārī (1499) |
| Livestock | Graduated | Classical fiqh manuals |
| Zakat al‑Fiṭr | ≈ 3 kg staple × local price | Bukhārī (1503) |
5 · How Our Zakat Calculator Works
- Select a zakat type (Cash, Gold, Livestock…).
- Enter the asset value / quantity; only relevant fields appear.
- The tool checks nisab in real‑time. If you’re below, it tells you “No zakat due.”
- Applicable rate is applied automatically (2.5 %, 5 %, 10 %, or livestock table).
- A detailed explanation shows the math (e.g., “85g x $106.5”).
6 · Walk‑Through with Screenshots
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7 · Which Assets Are Zakatable?
7.1 Cash & Bank Balances
Savings, checking, PayPal, crypto stable‑coins—convert to USD on your zakat date.
7.2 Investments & Shares
Market value of stocks, ETFs, mutual funds. Many scholars allow deducting a percentage reflecting non‑zakatable business assets; our advanced tab lets you choose 25 %/40 % presets.
7.3 Gold & Silver Jewelry
Myth‑buster: The Shāfiʿī, Mālikī and most Ḥanbalī opinion exempts personal jewelry you actually wear. Ḥanafis still require 2.5 %. Our calculator offers a toggle.
7.4 Real Estate
Only property bought for resale is zakatable. Your family home? Not.
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8 · Allowable Deductions
Include upcoming rent, necessary bills, and debts due within 12 months. Exclude long‑term mortgages beyond one year’s installment.
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9 · Zakat Calculation Formula & Manual Example
Formula:
(Assets – Liabilities) × Rate
Worked Example
- Cash = $12,000 2. Stocks = $4,000 3. Gold = $1,200 Total = $17,200
- Debts due next month = $2,200
- Net = $15,000 > $9,052 (nisab)
- Zakat = 15,000 × 2.5 % = $375
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10 · Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is pension money zakatable?
A: Not until you gain access…
Q2: Can I pay zakat monthly?
A: Yes, intention = annual zakat spread out…
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11 · Sources & Scholarly Endorsements
- Al‑Mawsūʿa al‑Fiqhiyya al‑Kuwaitiyya, Vol. 23.
- Fiqh al‑Zakah — Dr. Yūsuf al‑Qaraḍāwī.
- Price data via LBMA (London Bullion Market Association)…