Zakat Before Ramadan
In general, zakat donation can be paid at any time of the year, whether you choose to pay it before Ramadan or after. However, when we talk about Zakat al-Fitr, it’s obligatory for all adult Muslims to pay it during Ramadan, before Eid al-Fitr prayers at the latest, for those in need can enjoy the day of Eid.
Ramadan is the Best Time to Pay Zakat
There are many types of Zakat donations, and Muslims can choose any time to give out their Zakat donation during the year. However, many Muslims choose to pay their zakat payment during the Holy month “Ramadan”, as they believe in their heart that the rewards that come from this are multiplied. On the other hand, Zakat al-Fitr, which is a type of Zakat donation, must be paid before Eid al-Fitr maximum.
Zakat al-Fitr
Zakat al-Fitr, also known as “Sadaqat al-Fitr“. It is an obligatory payment of “alms,” which all Muslims pay at the end of Ramadan, the holy fasting month. It is a mandatory charity due on every Muslim, regardless of age or gender.
The purpose of Zakat al-Fitr
Zakat al-Fitr has two main purposes;
- Spiritual; for the individual worshiper.
- Communal; to help and support those in need in the community.
Obligations of Zakat Al-Fitr
Zakat al-Fitr is a universal Muslim obligation, meaning every Muslim is liable for its payment. It is due to “every Muslim, free or bondsman, male or female, young or old, poor or rich” (Bukhari).
Every Muslim who has “Nisab” or possesses food over their needs must pay Zakat al -Fitr. The head of the household can also pay Zakat al-Fitr on behalf of their dependants, such as;
- Children.
- Servants.
- Wives.
- And any dependent relatives.
Zakat al-Fitr in Value of Money
Zakat al-Fitr is obligatory for every Muslim, it must be paid before Eid prayers, and it should be given on behalf of every member of the household, whether male or female, adult or minor.
Approximately;
- It consists of (5.5) pounds of rice, wheat, dates, or similar food items.
- An estimated amount of £5/US$15 per family member.
Time of Zakat al-Fitr Payment
Zakat al-Fitr must be paid before the Eid prayer. However, for those who are living in the West, we should ensure that we send our Zakat to other countries during the last few days of Ramadan; in a way, we give plenty of time to the organization, charities, or people to make sure that it reaches those in-need on time.
Zakat al-Fitr recipients
Zakat al-Fitr is given out to those in need to help and support;
- The poor (Al-Fuqara’).
- The needy (Al- Masakin).
- The administrators.
- Those whose hearts are to be reconciled; (new Muslims and the friends of the Muslim community).
- Those in bondage (slaves and captives).
- The debt-ridden.
- In the cause of Allah.
- The wayfarer; (who is stranded on traveling with few resources).
Zakat to Build a Mosque
Allah (SWT) has set the eight categories who are the recipients of zakat. Therefore it is not permissible to give zakat to other than these eight categories. Furthermore, The majority of jurists see that Allah (SWT), described zakat and called it “Sadaqa”, and it is a part of the money given to the needy among the poor Muslims, and Masjid is not among this specified category.
FAQ
Can Zakat Be Given During Ramadan?
Yes, it can be given during Ramadan, as long as it is given before the Eid al-Fitr prayer.
Why Does Zakat Occur During Ramadan?
Muslims choose to pay their zakat in Ramadan because they know in their heart the reward (thawab) of this good deed will multiply as they bond with their less-fortunate brothers and sisters in this Holy month, as it is indeed the Month of Mercy (Rahma), where Muslims, help and support their brothers and sisters in need.
When Should We Pay Zakat?
Generally, we can pay zakat at any time of the year. However, zakat should not be mistaken for zakat al-Fitr, which must be paid during Ramadan, before Eid al-Fitr prayers, by every Muslim who has food in excess of their needs.
How Do I Pay Zakat al Fitr?
After calculating the estimated amount of your zakat, you can reach out to masjids, charities, or organizations, to anywhere you want your zakat to be donated to, and contact people in charge to give out your Zakat.
Did The Early Muslims Pay Their Zakat in Ramadan?
Yes, they did.
How Much is Zakat al-Fitr?
Approximately; It consists of (2kg) or (5.5) pounds of rice, wheat, dates, or similar food items—an estimated £5/US$15 per family member.
How Do I Give Zakat al-Fitr?
If you give it before the prayer, it is considered Zakat al-Fitr, and if you give it after the Eid prayer, it is considered an ordinary charity.
Zakat al-Fitr should be given in the form of food as the prophet did. The amount of Zakat is the same for everyone, regardless of how wealthy they are
Can We Give Money for Zakat al-Fitr?
Zakat al-Fitr should be given in the form of food as the prophet (SAW) did.