When is Zakat due? Rules on timing and the lunar year

Zakat is an annual obligation for eligible Muslims. Knowing when Zakat is due depends on two key things: whether you meet the Nisab, and whether a full lunar year (Hawl) has passed while you remained eligible. Once you have a due date, it usually stays the same each year unless your wealth drops below Nisab.

If you’re new to Zakat, start with What is Zakat? before working out your timing.

Understanding Hawl (the lunar year)

In Islam, Zakat becomes due once your qualifying wealth has been at or above Nisab for one full lunar year (Hawl). A lunar year is approximately 354 days.

Here’s the simplest way to think about it:

• Your start date: the day your Zakatable wealth first reached Nisab

• Your due date: one lunar year from that start date

• Your Zakat anniversary: the same date each year, as long as you remain eligible

If you’re unsure whether you’re even eligible to pay, read Who is required to pay Zakat?

What if my wealth drops below Nisab during the year?

If your wealth drops below Nisab during the year, many people treat this as your Hawl “resetting”. When you later reach Nisab again, the lunar-year count begins again from that new date.

To avoid confusion, you can track your anniversary date and estimate consistently, then confirm your final amount when your due date arrives using the Zakat Calculator.

Do I have to pay Zakat in Ramadan?

No — Zakat does not have to be paid in Ramadan. Many Muslims choose Ramadan because it’s a spiritually special time, but your actual Zakat due date is tied to your Hawl anniversary.

If you want to align your payment with Ramadan, it may be possible to pay early (see below), but it’s still important to ensure you’ve paid the correct amount for the year.

Can I pay my Zakat early?

Yes, in many cases you can pay Zakat early — especially if there’s urgent need and you want your Zakat to reach people quickly. If you pay early, it’s smart to do a final check on your normal due date to make sure you didn’t underpay.

A simple approach is:

1. Estimate and give early if needed

2. Recalculate on your due date and top up if required

If you want a step-by-step walkthrough, read How do I calculate Zakat?

What happens if I miss my Zakat due date?

If you miss your Zakat due date, Zakat doesn’t disappear — it remains owed until it’s paid. If you’ve missed previous years, you should calculate what you owe and pay it as soon as you can.

To work out your current amount quickly, use the Zakat Calculator and then make your payment.

How to stay on top of your Zakat each year

To make Zakat easier year after year:

• Pick and record your Zakat anniversary (your due date)

• Set a recurring reminder (calendar/phone)

• Keep basic notes on your main Zakatable assets

• Use a calculator when the date arrives to confirm the exact figure

When you’re ready, you can Donate Zakat online through Sadaqa Welfare Fund.

FAQ: When is Zakat due?

When is Zakat due for the first time?
When you first reach Nisab and then a full lunar year passes while you remain eligible.

Does my due date change every year?
Usually no — it becomes your Zakat anniversary, unless your wealth falls below Nisab and you later become eligible again.

Can I give my Zakat monthly instead?
Yes, some people give throughout the year, but you should still ensure the total paid meets what you owe for your Zakat year.