Zakat Calculator for Muslims in the USA

Zakat is an annual obligation. You should calculate and pay your Zakat once every lunar year (approximately 354 days). Many Muslims choose to pay during Ramadan for the increased blessings, but it can be paid at any time once the haul (one lunar year) is complete on your wealth.

It's recommended to pick a memorable date (like the first of Ramadan or your birthday) and calculate your Zakat on that date each year.

This depends on the type of retirement account and your ability to access the funds:

• 401(k)/IRA (Traditional): Most scholars say these should be included in your Zakat calculation because you could access them (with penalty) if needed.
• Roth IRA: Contributions (but not earnings) can typically be withdrawn tax and penalty-free, so many scholars say to include only the contribution amount.
• Pension Plans: If you cannot access the funds until retirement, most scholars say these are not zakatable until you start receiving payments.

When in doubt, consult with a knowledgeable local scholar about your specific situation.

Generally, no. Personal assets like your primary home, car for personal use, and household items are not subject to Zakat because they're considered necessities.

However, there are exceptions:

• If you own investment properties (not your primary residence), these are zakatable
• If you own vehicles for business purposes (like a delivery truck), their value is included
• If you have excessive luxury items beyond normal needs, some scholars recommend including them

You cannot give Zakat to:

• Your parents, grandparents, etc. (ascendants)
• Your children, grandchildren, etc. (descendants)
• Your spouse

However, you can give Zakat to other relatives who are eligible recipients (like siblings, nieces/nephews, aunts/uncles, cousins) if they are poor or needy and don't fall into the prohibited categories above.

Giving Zakat to eligible relatives is actually highly recommended as it fulfills both your Zakat obligation and strengthens family ties.

Fluctuations during the year don't affect your Zakat obligation as long as you maintained wealth above the nisab threshold at all times.

The key points are:

• If your wealth dipped below nisab at any point during the year, your haul (year) resets and you must wait until you've again had nisab for a full year
• If you always remained above nisab, you calculate based on what you own at the end of your Zakat year
• For investments that fluctuate (like stocks), use their value on your Zakat due date