What is Nisab?
Nisab (ΩΨ΅Ψ§Ψ¨) is the minimum amount of wealth a Muslim must possess before Zakat becomes obligatory. If your total zakatable wealth is below the Nisab, you are not required to pay Zakat. If it meets or exceeds Nisab and has been held for one lunar year (Haul), Zakat of 2.5% is due.
Nisab Thresholds 2026
- Gold Nisab: 85 grams of 24K pure gold = approximately SAR 20,868 at current prices (May 2026)
- Silver Nisab: 595 grams of silver = approximately SAR 2,380
Most contemporary scholars recommend using the gold Nisab for calculating Zakat on cash and savings, as it is more appropriate for modern wealth levels. The silver Nisab is significantly lower and would make Zakat obligatory on much smaller savings.
Step-by-Step Zakat Calculation
- Step 1: List all zakatable assets: cash, bank savings, gold, silver, business inventory, money owed to you
- Step 2: Subtract debts due within the year
- Step 3: Check if net wealth β₯ Nisab (SAR 20,868)
- Step 4: Confirm wealth was held for 1 full lunar year (Haul)
- Step 5: Pay 2.5% of total net zakatable wealth
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Nisab should I use β gold or silver?βΎ
Most contemporary scholars recommend the gold Nisab (85g = ~SAR 20,868) for calculating Zakat on cash and savings. The silver Nisab is much lower (~SAR 2,380) and would obligate Zakat on very small savings.
Does my home count towards Nisab?βΎ
No. Your primary residence, personal car, and household goods are not zakatable assets and do not count towards the Nisab calculation.
How do I calculate the Haul (lunar year)?βΎ
The Haul starts from the day your wealth first reaches the Nisab level. After one full lunar year (354β355 days) at or above Nisab, Zakat becomes due.
What if my wealth fluctuates above and below Nisab during the year?βΎ
If your wealth drops below Nisab at any point during the year, the Haul resets and begins again when it reaches Nisab again. You only pay Zakat if wealth remained at or above Nisab for the full lunar year.