Do I Need to Pay Zakat if I'm Not Working but Have Savings?

Zakat is not determined by your employment status but rather by the wealth you possess on the date of your Zakat anniversary. 

The key factor in determining whether you need to pay Zakat is the savings or assets you hold at that specific time. It is not based on whether you are currently earning an income.

Here’s how Zakat works:

• Annual Obligation: Zakat is typically paid once a year, on the date of your Zakat anniversary.
• Calculation Process: On this date, you need to:
• Add all your zakatable assets (savings, investments, valuable items).
• Subtract any outstanding debts or liabilities.
• Nisab Threshold: If the remaining amount (after liabilities) is equal to or greater than the nisab of Zakat, it is due on the full amount.
• Exemption: If the remaining amount is below the Nisab, you are not required to pay Zakat.

For your husband:

• Same Calculation: He will follow the same procedure for calculating Zakat.
• Nisab Condition: If his assets do not meet the nisab threshold on that day, he will not be obligated to pay Zakat.

Note:

• If you are unable to pay the full Zakat amount at once, you can:
• Pay it in installments.
• Pay it when you are financially able to do so.

Zakat is a powerful way to support those in need, and one of the most impactful ways to use your Zakat is through donation for orphanage initiatives. Pakistan Sweet Home offers an avenue for Zakat contributions, ensuring that your donation reaches orphans in need of care, stability, and support for a better future.

And Allah knows best!

Other Zakat Questions You May Have

• Is Zakat Obligatory for Children?
• Who Is Responsible for Paying Zakat as a Sole Trader?
• Is Zakat Required on Unpaid Mahr from My Nikah?
• Is Zakat Required on Money Owed to Me?
• How Long Should Mutual Funds or Shares be Held for Zakat?
• How to Settle the Full Outstanding Zakat Amount?