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As Muslims, we are blessed with the opportunity to fulfil our spiritual duties through the Five Pillars of Islam. Each pillar serves as a fundamental aspect of our faith, guiding us toward a life of devotion and purpose. Among them, Zakat, the third pillar, holds a special place in ensuring that wealth is shared with those in need.

In the UK, Zakat not only performs a religious duty but also plays an essential role in supporting charities, empowering communities, and making a positive impact on the world. At United Muslims, we are dedicated to highlighting how Zakat can bring about meaningful change and improve the lives of those in need.

In this blog, we will explore the essence of Zakat, how to donate it in the UK, and how your generous giving can change lives.

What Is Zakat?

Zakat is a form of almsgiving that is obligatory for every adult Muslim who meets the required financial conditions. It is not just a charity donation but a spiritual obligation to purify one’s wealth and redistribute a portion of it to those who are struggling financially.

The standard amount of Zakat to be paid is 2.5% of your wealth annually. Our organisation, United Muslims, ensures that wealth circulates fairly within society and helps alleviate poverty. Allah says in the Quran:

“Take, [O Muhammad], from their wealth a charity by which you purify them and cause them increase, and invoke [ Allah ‘s blessings] upon them” – Surah At-Tawbah (9:103)

This verse highlights that charity cleanses wealth, fosters spiritual growth, and brings blessings through the Prophet’s (peace be upon him) prayers.

Who Receives Zakat?

Zakat is intended to help those in need, and the Quran clearly outlines the eight categories of individuals who are eligible to receive it. These categories include the poor (Al-Fuqara), who do not have enough to meet their basic needs, and the needy (Al-Masakin), who may be struggling but are not necessarily destitute.

Zakat can also be given to those appointed to collect and distribute it, ensuring it reaches the right hands. Additionally, individuals burdened by debt who are unable to pay it off are eligible for assistance through Zakat. Another category includes individuals working in the path of Allah, which encompasses those involved in religious, social, or educational causes.

Travellers who find themselves in financial hardship during their journeys also fall under the category of Zakat recipients. Freed slaves, who are striving to support themselves after being liberated, and the new Muslims, who may be drawn closer to Islam or brought into harmony with the community, are also entitled to receive Zakat.

Through these categories, Zakat helps address the diverse needs of society and supports those facing various challenges. When you donate Zakat, you are directly contributing to the well-being of these individuals by providing them with essentials, such as food, clean water, and medical aid. 

You can read our detailed guide on who is eligible for your Zakat donations.

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Fulfil your obligation today – give Zakat and be a source of hope for those in need!

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Why is Zakat So Important?

Zakat holds a special place in Islam because it addresses both individual purification and collective well-being. Giving Zakat is not only fulfilling a religious duty; it is an opportunity to earn Allah’s pleasure, strengthen your community, and be part of a global effort to help those in need.

Zakat plays a vital role in reducing social inequalities by bridging the gap between the wealthy and the less fortunate. Giving Zakat reminds Muslims of the true source of their wealth. They recognise that all possessions ultimately belong to Allah (SWT), who has control over everything. It is stated in the Quran:

“You will never achieve righteousness until you donate some of what you cherish.” – Surah Aal-E-Imran (3:92)

This ayah emphasises the importance of sincere and selfless giving. True goodness comes when you give from what you love because real charity is about sacrifice, not just what you can afford. Furthermore, Zakat encourages a mindset of humility, empathy, and gratitude, as it helps individuals grow in their faith and compassion.

How to Calculate and Donate Zakat

For Muslims in the UK, calculating and donating Zakat properly is a way to fulfil a key religious duty while helping those in need. Understanding how to calculate Zakat and donate it effectively ensures that your contributions truly make a difference in the lives of others, both locally and globally. Your Zakat can provide food, shelter, and education to the struggling communities. It is an opportunity to give back, support others, and meet your spiritual obligations.

Here’s a simple guide:

  1. Calculate Your Wealth: Zakat is obligatory on savings, investments, and assets you have held for a complete lunar cycle. This includes cash, gold, silver, and business profits but excludes your home and personal belongings. To learn more about which assets are Zakatable read the full guide here.
  2. Deduct Debts: If you have any debts that need to be paid within the year, subtract them from your total wealth. This includes loans or bills that are due and payable during the year.
  3. Determine the Nisab: Nisab is the minimum amount of wealth a Muslim must possess before they are required to pay Zakat. It is determined based on the value of gold or silver. If your wealth exceeds the nisab threshold, Zakat becomes obligatory. Its value can change depending on market prices for gold and silver.
  4. Give 2.5% of Your Wealth: Once you have calculated your wealth and confirmed that it exceeds the nisab, you are required to give 2.5% of your savings and assets as Zakat. If you need help calculating your Zakat, United Muslims offers a Zakat calculator on their website to simplify this process.
  5. Choose a Trusted Charity: After calculating how much Zakat you need to give, the next step is to make your donation. The most important aspect to check while donating is that you are contributing to a transparent and reputable charity organisation that distributes Zakat in accordance with Islamic guidelines. United Muslims ensures that we use your Zakat effectively to help the most vulnerable.
  6. Select a Cause: Zakat can be donated to a variety of charitable causes, from supporting Palestine charities to contributing to water relief efforts, child sponsorship, or local food banks.
  7. Give Zakat Online: Digital platforms make it easier than ever to donate to charity from the comfort of your own home. At United Muslims, we provide secure online donation systems that allow us to give your Zakat quickly and directly to the most deserving individuals.

At United Muslims, we simplify the process of donating your Zakat, whether you are supporting UK-based initiatives or contributing to global charity projects, such as food donations, water relief, or aid for Palestine. Our platform provides safe and transparent donation options so you can ensure your Zakat reaches those who need it most.

Click here for a detailed explanation of how to calculate your Zakat.

Zakat During Ramadan

The holy month of Ramadan is an essential time for giving Zakat. Many Muslims choose to pay it during this blessed month to receive both increased blessings and rewards. In fact, some people choose to give their Zakat at the end of Ramadan alongside Zakat ul-Fitr. This additional act of charity helps ensure the poor can also celebrate Eid.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“Whoever gives charity in Ramadan, it will be like giving charity for the entire year.” (Sunan Ibn Majah)

The hadith highlights that charity given during Ramadan holds an immense reward, as it is equivalent to charity given for the entire year. This shows the unique spiritual value of acts of kindness during Ramadan.

Donate Your Zakat Today!

Zakat is more than just a financial duty; it is a perfect way to purify wealth, connect with the community, and make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most. Allah mentioned in the Quran:

“And establish prayer and give Zakat and obey the Messenger – that you may receive mercy.” – Surah An-Nur (24:56)

This verse emphasises that believers should perform prayers, give Zakat, and follow the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to earn Allah’s mercy. It highlights that Zakat is an integral part of a Muslim’s devotion and spiritual growth.

By fulfilling the third pillar of Islam, Muslims contribute to creating a compassionate, fair, and just society. Whether you are giving Zakat during Ramadan or at any time of the year, your contribution brings you closer to Allah and helps ensure that the blessings of wealth are shared by all. At United Muslims, we ensure your Zakat reaches the less fortunate.

Donate now and help make a difference!