Is it Mandatory to Pay Zakat for Missed Obligations?

The answer depends on the circumstances surrounding your missed Zakat and the school of thought you follow. 

Here's an overview:

• Zakat and its Obligation: 

Zakat becomes obligatory once a person possesses the necessary wealth or assets. This applies even if the individual misses paying Zakat due to negligence, ignorance, or error. Once the obligation is triggered, it remains binding.

• Hanafi View on Zakat Obligation: 

According to the Hanafi school of thought, Zakat is initially a duty upon wealth. However, if a person depletes their wealth, the responsibility is transferred to them as an individual. 

In other words, Zakat becomes obligatory on the individual once their wealth reaches the required threshold (nisab), even if missed.

• Other Schools of Thought: 

In contrast, other schools of Fiqh (like Shafi’i, Maliki, and Hanbali) argue that the obligation of Zakat rests directly on the individual from the very beginning. Therefore, if the person meets the criteria for paying Zakat (i.e., having the required wealth), the duty is firmly upon them, even if they delay or neglect to pay it.

• The Ongoing Obligation: 

Regardless of the school of thought, once Zakat becomes obligatory, it is not excused by mere negligence. If a person misses it, they must pay the missed amount as soon as they realize their error or oversight.

Thus, Zakat remains a mandatory obligation for those who qualify, and it must be paid even if initially missed. Therefore, individuals should ensure they fulfill this important religious duty promptly, as the obligation does not expire with time.

And Allah knows best!