What is Zakat?
Zakat is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and a mandatory act of worship for Muslims who meet the financial threshold. The word “Zakat" means purification and growth—it's a spiritual act intended to cleanse one's wealth and heart from greed, while also uplifting those in need. Zakat is not a voluntary donation. It's a compulsory charity that must be paid annually by adult Muslims whose wealth exceeds the nisab threshold. The purpose is to support the poor and marginalized, and to ensure fair distribution of wealth in society. Some charities you can consider donating to include UNHCR, Human Appeal and Save The Children.
How Much Zakat Should You Pay?
Zakat is calculated at 2.5% of your qualifying wealth, which includes:
- Cash savings.
- Gold and silver.
- Investments.
- Business inventory.
- Rental income.
- Other liquid assets.
You can subtract any immediate debts or liabilities before calculating the 2.5%. For example:
- If you have $15,000 in Zakat-eligible assets.
- And owe $3,000 in short-term debts.
- Your Zakatable amount is $12,000.
- Your Zakat would be 2.5% of $12,000 = $300.
The nisab threshold is typically calculated using the value of 3 ounces (87.48 grams) of gold or 21 ounces (612.36 grams) of silver. Since silver's value is lower, using it as the benchmark allows more people to qualify for giving Zakat, which can benefit more recipients.
Who is Eligible to Receive Zakat?
According to Islamic teachings, Zakat should go to specific groups mentioned in the Qur'an (Surah At-Tawbah 9:60), including:
- The poor and needy.
- Those in debt.
- Travelers in distress.
- Refugees or displaced individuals.
- People striving in the path of God.
- New Muslims or those close to Islam.
Choosing the right charity ensures that your Zakat reaches these eligible categories. Below are several highly respected organizations that accept and distribute Zakat in accordance with Islamic guidelines.
Charities to Consider for Donations
Looking for options on where to donate your Zakat? Consider these five organizations.
1. UNHCR – The UN Refugee Agency (Zakat Fund)
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has established a dedicated Refugee Zakat Fund, which distributes 100% of Zakat donations directly to eligible refugee families. It’s specifically aimed at displaced persons in countries such as Syria, Yemen, Lebanon and Bangladesh (Rohingya refugees).
UNHCR's program is Sharia-compliant, with scholars overseeing the distribution process to ensure it meets Islamic requirements. Your Zakat here can provide shelter, food, medical care and cash assistance to the world’s most vulnerable.
2. Human Appeal USA
Human Appeal is an international charity with a strong presence in the U.S. It offers Zakat-eligible projects in crisis regions including Gaza, Syria, Yemen and Somalia. Donations support emergency food aid, clean water, orphan sponsorship and healthcare services.
Human Appeal allows you to choose specific causes or countries when donating your Zakat. Their transparent reporting system ensures your donation is handled responsibly and reaches eligible recipients.
3. Save the Children – Zakat-Compatible Giving
Save the Children is not an Islamic organization, but it has established partnerships with Islamic scholars to ensure Zakat donations are distributed to eligible children and families. They operate in over 100 countries, including in crisis-hit areas like Afghanistan, Syria and the Horn of Africa.
Your Zakat can provide education, nutrition, healthcare and emergency support to children in dire need. Save the Children USA accepts Zakat contributions during Ramadan and other key periods.
4. Islamic Relief USA
Islamic Relief USA is one of the most well-known and trusted Zakat-collecting organizations in North America. Their programs are fully compliant with Islamic principles and serve both domestic and international communities.
They offer Zakat distribution in over 40 countries, focusing on hunger relief, disaster response, orphan support, clean water and sustainable development.
5. LaunchGood – Zakat Crowdfunding
LaunchGood is a Muslim crowdfunding platform that features individual and organizational campaigns that are often Zakat-eligible. You can browse verified causes and donate to those that align with your values—from building water wells to helping widows or sponsoring education.
It’s an ideal option for those who want a more personal and customizable giving experience.
Making the Most of Your Zakat
When choosing where to give your Zakat, consider these tips:
- Verify eligibility. Make sure the recipients and the charity meet Islamic Zakat guidelines.
- Check transparency. Choose organizations that provide clear financial reporting and donor updates.
- Give early in Ramadan. Many Muslims give Zakat during Ramadan for the extra spiritual rewards, and early giving allows charities to plan and allocate resources more effectively.
Keep reading to learn about more charities in the USA you can donate to.