WHAT IS ZAKAT?
Zakat is one of the five pillars of Islam, and also an act of worship. It means ‘purification’. By giving a small portion of one’s assets to those in vulnerable situations, a Muslim purifies one’s wealth and makes the wealth gain pleasure for Allah.
WHY ICNA RELIEF!
Zakat Calculator
Zakat Breakdown with
Dr. Main Alqudah from Guidance College
Zakat and Zakat-al-Fitr FAQs
Understanding the Rules, Purpose, and Timing of Zakat al-Fitr
Zakat al-Fitr is a special charitable contribution that every eligible Muslim is required to give at the end of Ramadan before Eid prayer. It is intended to purify your fast, help those in need celebrate Eid, and ensure that no one in the community goes hungry during the festival.
Every adult Muslim who has enough to meet their own needs is encouraged to give Zakat al-Fitr, not just for themselves, but for each member of their household, including children.
- To purify the fasting person from any mistakes or shortcomings during Ramadan.
- To provide support for the poor and needy, allowing them to celebrate Eid with dignity.
- To promote community solidarity by sharing blessings during the festival.
- Traditionally: sa’ (~2.5–3 kg / 5–7 lbs) of staple food like wheat, rice, dates, or barley per person.
- Alternatively: the cash equivalent of that food in your local area—for example, $10 per person if 2.5 kg of rice costs $10.
Zakat al-Fitr should be paid before the Eid prayer, so it reaches those in need in time for Eid celebrations. Giving it a few days early ensures families can benefit immediately.
Absolutely. You can pay Zakat al-Fitr for:
- Children in your care
- Elderly family members
- Anyone unable to give themselves
Zakat is generally 2.5% of a Muslim’s total qualifying wealth (savings, gold, investments, and assets above basic needs) accumulated over a lunar year.
Steps to calculate Zakat:
1. Determine your total wealth, including:
- Cash and bank balances
- Gold, silver, and other valuables
- Investments and business assets
3. Apply 2.5% to the remaining amount.
Yes! ICNA Relief ensures that your Zakat and Zakat al-Fitr contributions reach those in need locally and globally , supporting:
- Food security programs
- Orphans and vulnerable families
- Emergency and humanitarian relief
- Ramadan and Eid initiatives
- Trusted & transparent: Your donation reaches verified families and programs.
- Impactful: Your Zakat feeds families, supports orphans, and sustains communities.
- Simple & timely: Pay online and make sure it counts before Eid.
