Zakat
The niyyah for zakat
The intention is what turns a payment into zakat. Here is when to make it, and what to do if you forgot.
Why zakat needs a niyyah
Zakat is worship, and worship is by intention (Sahih al-Bukhari 1).
The niyyah is what makes a transfer zakat rather than a gift or a loan. The amount is a separate question: the calculator on muslimsaroundtheworld.org shows today’s nisab.
Check this year’s nisab threshold before you work out what you owe. See which Muslim charities spend least on fundraising, from their accounts.
When to make the niyyah for zakat
As you give
The intention should be there when the zakat is handed over (Sahih al-Bukhari 1).
As you set it aside
Most schools accept this too, which helps anyone paying in stages; follow your own school’s rule.
Through an organisation
Intend as you pay, choose the zakat option and keep the receipt. It passes it to eligible people (Quran 9:60).
Three special cases
Paying for someone else
Only with their knowledge and agreement, so their intention is there; otherwise most scholars count it your gift (Sahih al-Bukhari 1).
Telling the person
Many scholars say you need not mention it is zakat; giving to the poor in secret is praised (Quran 2:271).
Forgot to intend
Most scholars count it as sadaqah, still rewarded, and the zakat is still owed (Sahih al-Bukhari 1). Give it again, with the niyyah.