خطوات إخراج الزكاة
Table of Contents
Zakat in Islam is considered a fundamental obligation that requires wealthy Muslims to give specific amounts capable of improving the conditions of the poor, contributing to building a safe, cohesive society adorned with social justice. Zakat is a priceless opportunity to purify the soul and wealth and to increase blessings in provision.
However, Zakat is only valid if it is given on time and with a sincere intention solely for the sake of Allah. Therefore, we present to you today’s article to learn together the steps of paying Zakat, its virtues, and the correct timing of its payment. Let us continue together.
Important Steps for Paying Zakat
Paying Zakat correctly requires important steps that must be followed to attain the expected reward and recompense, which are as follows:
First, you must determine the Nisab by knowing the value of your wealth, including gold and silver. The total must reach the established Nisab, which is 85 grams of gold, while for silver it is 595 grams.
Ensure that the wealth reaching the Nisab has passed a full Hijri year. At that point, an amount equal to 2.5% of the total wealth is paid.
Sincere intention purely for the sake of Allah, without which Zakat is not valid.
Determining the eligible recipients of Zakat, namely the poor, the needy, and the destitute—starting with relatives, then neighbors, and finally reliable charitable associations and institutions that can be trusted to deliver Zakat to those who deserve it, such as Al-Wafa Charity Association.
You must ensure the correct timing of paying Zakat, which should be when the Nisab is reached. It is permissible to advance or delay it when needed.
Time of Paying Zakat
The time of paying Zakat depends on the type of Zakat. Some types may allow delay, while others must be paid immediately upon completion of the required conditions. Below are the details:
Time of Paying Zakat on Wealth
Zakat on wealth, including gold, silver, and trade goods, is paid once the Nisab is reached and a full Hijri year has passed, provided that the wealth exceeds the basic needs of the payer.
It is permissible to pay Zakat earlier if doing so benefits the eligible recipients.
Zakat on wealth should not be delayed without a legitimate reason. If delayed without valid justification, the payer must repent and pay it immediately.
Time of Paying Zakat al-Fitr
Zakat al-Fitr is due at sunset on the last day of Ramadan. It is preferable to pay it before the Eid prayer, after the dawn of Eid day, to spare the poor and needy from asking.
It is permissible to pay Zakat al-Fitr one or two days before Eid.
It is not permissible to delay Zakat al-Fitr beyond the Eid prayer without a valid excuse. If delayed, it must be made up.
Virtue of Paying Zakat
Paying Zakat in Islam carries great reward and immense virtue in both this world and the Hereafter. Below are its most prominent benefits for the individual and society:
Virtue of Paying Zakat for the Individual
Zakat purifies the heart and wealth from miserliness and greed, and nurtures generosity.
It multiplies reward and recompense when paid with sincere intention for the sake of Allah.
It expiates sins and erases wrongdoing.
It increases blessings in wealth and expands provision.
It brings the payer closer to Paradise and is among the means of entering it.
Virtue of Paying Zakat for Society
It strengthens bonds of love and harmony among members of society.
It achieves social solidarity and helps build a healthy society free from poverty.
It increases the sense of responsibility among the wealthy toward the poor and encourages support to improve their living conditions.
It brings hearts together between the poor and the rich and strengthens human connections.
It contributes to improving social and economic conditions within society.
Is It Permissible to Pay Zakat in Installments?
Yes, it is permissible to pay Zakat in installments if the intention is to benefit the poor and meet their needs, according to the following guidelines:
Zakat paid in installments must be fully completed before the arrival of the next Hijri year, especially if installments are more beneficial for the poor than a single payment.
If Zakat is paid after the completion of the year, it should be distributed to its recipients on a monthly basis throughout the year before the next year begins.
If installment payment aims to ensure benefit to the poor and protect them from misuse, it is permissible.
It is permissible to advance Zakat payments in installments before the completion of the year if it serves the interest of the poor, such as paying it before Ramadan during the months of Rajab and Sha’ban.
Ruling on Paying Zakat When Its Obligation Time Begins
The ruling on paying Zakat once its obligation time begins is immediate payment and prompt fulfillment. It is not permissible to delay it without a valid excuse. Otherwise, the payer incurs sin and remains responsible for the amount until it is paid.
Cases Permitting Delay of Zakat After Its Due Time
Paying Zakat may be delayed after its due time in the following cases:
Lack of sufficient available funds, in which case payment is delayed until funds become available.
Fear of harm to oneself or wealth, or fear of it being collected more than once.
Having a valid reason for delay, such as the presence of poor and needy individuals in another country who deserve Zakat.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Zakat on Wealth Paid?
Zakat is paid once the Nisab is reached and a full Hijri year has passed, with sincere intention for the sake of Allah, and then distributed to those who are eligible, bringing great reward to the payer.
How Much Is Zakat on 1000 Riyals?
The amount of Zakat on 1000 Saudi Riyals is 25 Riyals, as the Zakat rate is 2.5% of the total amount. This is calculated as follows: 1000 × 0.025 = 25 Riyals.
What Is the Amount of Wealth on Which Zakat Is Due?
The amount of wealth on which Zakat is due is 85 grams of gold, provided that a full Hijri year has passed, after which 2.5% of the total amount is paid.
What Is the Amount of Wealth Subject to Zakat in Morocco?
The amount of wealth subject to Zakat in Morocco is 85 grams of gold or 595 grams of silver.
Is Zakat Due on the Same Wealth Every Year?
Yes, Zakat is due on the same wealth every year as long as it reaches the Nisab and a full Hijri year has passed.
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