Can I give zakat before my zakat date

Question

My friend is in need of some money and he is eligible for zakat, can I give him my zakat before my zakat date. My zakat date is on 26 September.

Hafizurrahman Fatehmahomed · Accepted Answer

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh.

1) Zakat should be calculated and paid according to the lunar calendar[1] and not the solar calendar. Therefore, if 26 of September was the first time you acquired money equal to or above the nisaab, then you must find out the Hijri date of 26 September of that year. This can be done using the website below;

http://www.islamicfinder.org/dateConversion.php

2) Zakat can be discharged before or after ones zakatable date. Therefore, if your friend is eligible to receive zakat you may assist him by giving him your zakat before your zakatable date[2].

And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best

Question

Answer