Maroc Générations
Zakat is one of the five pillars of Islam, but calculating it often raises questions: from what amount does it apply? Which assets count? How much should you pay, and to whom? This guide sets out the generally accepted principles for calculating and paying your Zakat in Morocco.
Important: this guide is for information only. Scholars differ on some points (threshold, debts, types of assets). For your personal situation, consult a trusted scholar. Maroc Générations does not issue religious rulings.
The three basic conditions
- Nisab (threshold). Zakat is only due if your zakatable wealth reaches a minimum threshold. It is most often set at the value of 85 grams of gold (some scholars use the value of 595 grams of silver).
- Hawl (one lunar year). That wealth must have stayed above the threshold for a full lunar year.
- The 2.5% rate. Zakat is one-fortieth (2.5%) of zakatable wealth.
Which assets count?
| Generally included | Generally excluded |
|---|---|
| Cash and bank accounts | Your main home |
| Savings | Car and personal-use items |
| Gold and silver | Furniture, clothing |
| Goods held for sale | Personal work tools |
| Money owed to you that is likely to be repaid |
According to many scholars, debts that are due can be deducted before calculating.
The calculation, step by step
- Work out the current nisab: 85 × today's price of one gram of gold (in dirhams).
- Add up your zakatable wealth (cash, savings, gold, goods for sale, receivables).
- Subtract debts that are due, if you follow that view.
- Compare with the nisab: if the total is lower, no Zakat is due.
- Apply 2.5% to the total.
Example: savings of 120,000 MAD that stayed above the nisab for a lunar year give a Zakat of 120,000 × 2.5% = 3,000 MAD.
What about Zakat al-Fitr?
Zakat al-Fitr is different: it is due for each member of the household at the end of Ramadan, before the Eid al-Fitr prayer. In Morocco, its guideline amount is announced each year by the Higher Council of Ulema (Conseil supérieur des oulémas).
Who can receive Zakat?
The Quran (Surah At-Tawbah, verse 60) defines eight categories of recipients, including the poor and the needy. You can pay it directly to eligible people, or through an association that passes it on to them.
At Maroc Générations, Zakat is allocated to the programmes you choose, including Farhat Al Aïd, which supports orphans, widows, elderly people and people with disabilities. Write "Zakat" in your message when you give.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Zakat rate?
2.5% of zakatable wealth, or one-fortieth, provided that wealth reached the nisab for a full lunar year.
How do I calculate the nisab in dirhams?
Multiply today's price of one gram of gold by 85. Some scholars use the value of 595 grams of silver instead.
Are my home and car subject to Zakat?
Generally not, when they are for personal use. Goods held for sale, however, are counted.
Who sets the Zakat al-Fitr amount in Morocco?
Its guideline amount is announced each year by the Higher Council of Ulema.
Can I pay my Zakat to Maroc Générations?
Yes. Say that it is Zakat and it will be allocated to the programme you choose. For the calculation and eligibility, consult a trusted scholar.