Zakat vs Sadaqah: Understanding the Difference

Zakat vs Sadaqah: Understanding the Difference

In Islam, charity is a core part of faith, but not all giving is the same. Two of the most common types of giving are Zakat and Sadaqah. While both are acts of worship and bring reward, they differ in obligation, amount, timing, and who can receive it.

This guide explains the difference in a simple, clear way so you can fulfil what’s required and give more where you can.

The simplest difference between Zakat and Sadaqah

• Zakat is obligatory for eligible Muslims.

• Sadaqah is voluntary and can be given at any time.

Both are important, but they are not interchangeable. Zakat is a duty when you qualify, and Sadaqah is extra giving beyond obligation.

1) Obligation: mandatory vs voluntary

Zakat
Zakat is fard (obligatory) and one of the Five Pillars of Islam. If you meet the conditions, Zakat is due.

Sadaqah
Sadaqah is voluntary. It is encouraged and rewarded, but not giving it is not sinful.

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

2) Amount: fixed vs flexible

Zakat
Zakat is usually calculated as 2.5% of qualifying wealth (once you meet Nisab and other conditions). Because it’s an obligation, it requires proper calculation.

To calculate accurately, use the Zakat Calculator.

Sadaqah
Sadaqah has no fixed amount. It can be small or large, and it can be given as money, support, or any act of kindness done sincerely.

3) Timing: once a year vs anytime

Zakat
Zakat is generally due once a year based on your Zakat due date (after a lunar year, Hawl). Many people choose to pay in Ramadan, but the due date depends on when you first reached Nisab and your Zakat year.

To understand timing, read When is Zakat due?

Sadaqah
Sadaqah can be given at any time—daily, weekly, during hardship, or in gratitude. There is no due date.

4) Recipients and use: restricted vs broad

Zakat
Zakat must be given to eligible recipients (Asnaf). It is not a general donation and cannot be used for every cause.

To understand eligibility, read Who can receive Zakat?

Sadaqah
Sadaqah is broader. It can be given to individuals or communities and used for a wide range of beneficial projects and needs.

5) Sadaqah Jariyah: ongoing charity

A special form of Sadaqah is Sadaqah Jariyah, which means ongoing charity. This is giving that continues to benefit others long after it is given, such as long-term community projects.

Should you give Zakat or Sadaqah?

The answer is both, in the right order:

• Zakat first (if you are eligible), because it is obligatory.

• Sadaqah after, to increase reward and help more people.

If you’re ready to give, you can Donate Zakat or donate to Sadaqa.