Zakat is one of the five pillars of Islam, and it is an obligatory form of charity for Muslims. It is a way of purifying one’s wealth and giving back to the community. Zakat is calculated at 2.5% of one’s wealth, and it is paid annually. With the advancement of technology, it has become easier to pay zakat online, especially during the month of Ramzan.
This article will provide a comprehensive guide on how and when to securely pay online zakat.
Why Pay Zakat Online?
Paying zakat online has several advantages. First, it is convenient as it can be done from anywhere and at any time. Second, it is fast and efficient, and the payment is processed immediately.
Third, it is secure, as the payment is made through a trusted payment gateway. Fourth, it is transparent, and the donor can track their payment and ensure that it reaches the intended recipient.
How to Pay Zakat Online?
There are several ways to pay zakat online. Here are the most common ones:
- Through Islamic Charities
Many Islamic charities offer online zakat payment services. They have a secure online payment gateway that accepts various payment methods, including credit/debit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers. To pay zakat online through an Islamic charity, follow these steps:
a. Visit the charity’s website
b. Look for the zakat payment section
c. Enter the required information, such as the amount of zakat, the currency, and the payment method
d. Provide your personal information, such as your name, address, and email
e. Confirm the payment and wait for the receipt.
- Through Zakat Calculators
Zakat calculators are online tools that help Muslims calculate their zakat accurately. They take into account various factors, such as income, expenses, debts, and assets, and provide the zakat amount due. Some zakat calculators also offer online payment services. To pay zakat online through a zakat calculator, follow these steps:
a. Visit a zakat calculator website
b. Enter the required information, such as your income, expenses, debts, and assets
c. Check the zakat amount due
d. Choose the online payment option
e. Enter your personal and payment information
f. Confirm the payment and wait for the receipt.
- Through Islamic Banking
Islamic banks offer online zakat payment services to their customers. The payment is deducted directly from the customer’s account and transferred to the zakat recipient. To pay zakat online through an Islamic bank, follow these steps:
a. Log in to your online banking account
b. Look for the zakat payment section
c. Enter the required information, such as the amount of zakat, the recipient’s name and address, and the payment method
d. Confirm the payment and wait for the receipt.
When to Pay Zakat Online?
Zakat is due on an annual basis, and the Islamic lunar year is based on the sighting of the moon. Therefore, the due date for zakat may vary from year to year. It is advisable to pay zakat as soon as possible, especially during the month of Ramzan, as it is considered a blessed month. Here are some tips on when to pay zakat online:
- Check the Due Date
Before paying zakat online, it is essential to check the due date. The due date varies from person to person, depending on their lunar year start date and the amount of wealth they possess. There are several zakat calculators available online that can help determine the due date.
- Pay Early
It is advisable to pay zakat early, especially during Ramzan, as it is considered a blessed month. Paying early also ensures that the zakat reaches the intended recipient on time, allowing them to benefit from it as soon as possible.
- Pay Regularly
It is important to pay zakat regularly, as it is an obligation for Muslims. One should make an effort to pay zakat annually and not delay or skip payments. Paying regularly also ensures that the zakat amount is manageable and not overwhelming.
- Pay Zakat Before Eid-ul-Fitr
Eid-ul-Fitr is a celebration that marks the end of the holy month of Ramzan. It is customary to give zakat before Eid-ul-Fitr so that the less fortunate can also celebrate the occasion with joy and happiness. Therefore, it is advisable to pay zakat online before Eid-ul-Fitr.
Securely Paying Zakat Online
While paying zakat online is convenient, fast, and efficient, it is important to ensure that it is done securely. Here are some tips on how to securely pay zakat online:
- Use a Trusted Payment Gateway
When paying zakat online, it is important to use a trusted payment gateway. Look for online payment options provided by well-known Islamic charities or Islamic banks. They have secure payment gateways that protect your personal and financial information.
- Verify the Recipient
Before making an online zakat payment, ensure that the recipient is trustworthy and genuine. Do your research and choose a reputable Islamic charity or organisation. Make sure that they have a proper zakat distribution system in place and that the zakat reaches the intended recipients.
- Use Strong Passwords
When making an online zakat payment, use strong passwords to protect your account. Use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols and avoid using common words or phrases. Change your password regularly and avoid using the same password for multiple accounts.
- Keep Your Device Secure
Ensure that your device is secure before making an online zakat payment. Use up-to-date antivirus software and a firewall to protect your device from malware and other cyber threats. Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks, as they may not be secure, and use a private and secure network and website development.
Conclusion
Paying zakat is an obligation for Muslims, and paying it online has become easier and more convenient with the advancement of technology. However, it is important to ensure that zakat is paid securely and reaches the intended recipients. This article has provided a comprehensive guide on how and when to securely pay online zakat. By following these tips, Muslims can fulfil their obligation of paying zakat and contribute towards the betterment of the community.