Zakat in Islam is mandatory for every Muslim living anywhere in the world. Zakat al-Fitr is considered one of the most important obligations that Muslims fulfill at the end of the blessed month of Ramadan by giving it to the poor and needy. Therefore, people living in non-Muslim countries, such as America, often ask about zakat and how to pay it appropriately.
What is Zakat?
According to what is mentioned in the Holy Quran, Zakat is a form of charity given to the Muslim community, which is a religious necessity in Islam. Giving zakat is one of the most important pillars of Islam after establishing prayer. It serves to purify, cleanse, promote growth, and prosperity. Giving a portion of excess wealth beyond a Muslim's needs to those entitled, such as the poor and needy and others deserving of zakat, blesses the wealth, purifies it, and protects it from loss.
Zakat is also mentioned in the Quran several times immediately after prayer, indicating that it holds the second most important position after prayer in terms of priority.
“And establish prayer and give zakat and bow with those who bow.”
[Surah Al-Baqarah: Verse 43]
It is also mentioned in another place in Surah Al-Baqarah:
“And establish prayer and give zakat, and whatever good you put forward for yourselves—you will find it with Allah.”
[Surah Al-Baqarah: Verse 110]
What is Zakat al-Fitr?
Zakat al-Fitr is a specified charity paid only once a year, just before the end of the month of Ramadan. Unlike Zakat on wealth, it is obligatory on individuals rather than on the amount of money; meaning it is required for each family member, equal to one Sa’ (a measure) for each family member, including the unborn child in the mother's womb according to some scholars. The head of the household is responsible for paying it
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