Q: I give my zakaat in Ramadhaan every year. Last years balance was R12 000 and this year is now increased to R30 000. Do I pay Zakaat on the R12 000 or R30 000?
A: The principle in regard to zakaat is that one will calculate one's zakaat on his zakaat date and thereafter begin to discharge the zakaat by giving it to the poor. Before the following year's zakaat date, it is compulsory upon one to discharge all the zakaat of the previous year. If any amount of the zakaat is outstanding and the following year's zakaat date comes one will be sinful.
If you paid zakaat on R12 000 the previous year, then you should wait for your zakaat date for this coming year (for example the 1st of Ramadhaan). On your zakaat date, you will see whatever zakaatable wealth you have in your possession, and you will pay two and a half percent on that wealth.
And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
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