Changing one's zakaat date

Q:

1) Is it permissible for a person to change his annual zakaat date to a more suitable date?

2) Do you agree with an adjustment to the zakaat rate if a person chooses to calculate his zakaat using the solar calendar?

A:

1. Changing one's zakaat date is not permissible. However, for convenience one may set another date for discharging the zakaat. In this case one should calculate one's zakaat on the zakaat date and keep a record of the zakaat that is due and thereafter take out the zakaat for distribution on the date that is more convenient for one.

2. Zakaat is calculated according to the lunar year and not the solar year.

And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best.

Answered by:

Mufti Zakaria Makada

Checked & Approved:

Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)