Fatwa ID: 01289

Answered by Mufti Mohammed Tosir Miah

Question:

Would the monthly rent be deducted from the Zakatable assets

Answer:

In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.

Zakat is compulsory upon a person who possesses the quantum of nisab (i.e. 612.35 grams of silver or 87.47 grams of gold or currency, wealth equivalent to that amount) for a complete lunar year; which is over and above his basic needs and also free from debts. (Raddul Muhtar p.5 v.2)

However, Zakat is not wajib upon that wealth and goods which are for a person’s needs and necessities.  For example a home for living in, clothes for wearing, household furniture and means of transport.  There is also no zakat upon books used for personal research or reading or upon equipment used for ones trade.   (Ilmul Fiqh p.14 v.4 & Fatawa Hindiyyah p.172 v.1)

Regarding your question, the amount due for basic necessities like the monthly rent is not Zakatable. However, if one is saving money for a future need like going for Hajj etc… then Zakat will be obligatory on that amount after the passing of one lunar year. (Fatawa Mahmoodiyah p.94 v.13)

Only Allah Knows Best

Mohammed Tosir Miah

Darul Ifta Birmingham