Q: Asalam alaikum

My family appreciates this website. We like the openness and how it benefits us all. In looking at the zakaah inquires and in particular on the case of Br xxxx (name removed by website) I would like to ask a question that I feel has been bothering my family for a while. Allah jala shanu has blessed our family more than we can ever imagine. I came as student to the usa in 1967. I had a job and was a student. I never paid zakaah until 1993 when I went back to xxxxx (name withheld by website). So what do i do now? No shaykh is giving me anything in writing. We have been to scholars for a response after reading your answers previously as well. I do come to your musjid when in the area but cannot come always come. One shaykh informed we must donate whatever we feel we want to give because there is no qadha on zakaah. We do not think Islam is this arbitrary. Another said that Allah jala shanu will forgive us. Again we do not get away doing this with our government taxes. So again please help us with an answer that is consistent with Islam. Shukriya

A: Walaikumsalam WRB:

May Allah reward you and your family for wanting to do the correct thing. Religion has covered this, and from what it has covered, I would assist.

Let us use average figures to simplify the calculations. For precise accuracy, you’ll need to revisit these figures with your accountant. I am using minimum wage as a baseline, so please don’t take offense—this is just for illustration since I do not have your exact numbers. The key point is to understand the process.

In 1967, the minimum wage was $1.20. In 1968, the minimum wage was $1.40. In 1969, the minimum wage was $1.60.

Now, let’s assume you earned $3,000 in 1967, $3,500 in 1968, and $4,000 in 1969.

In 1967, after accounting for expenses like rent, food, medical costs, phone bills, clothing, household items, gasoline, and bus fares, you might have saved $400. In this case, you would only owe Zakah on the $400.

In 1968, suppose you saved an additional $800 after expenses. If you still had the $400 from 1967 and now added $800 in savings from 1968, your Zakah obligation would be on the combined amount of $1,200. This pattern would continue each year.

Now, let’s say that by 1975, you had saved $4,800. If you decided to purchase a car, which cost around $4,800 before the date you were eligible to give Zakah on the $4800, you would not owe Zakah on that amount that year, as your savings would be fully spent. Consequently, your Zakah for that year might be as low as $100, depending on your remaining savings, or even none at all.

While you do not need to be 100% accurate, this is the concept of Ghalib-ul-Rye (best estimation). Involve your children and grandchildren in the process if you can—they might enjoy it too. It would also teach them the value of giving Zakah on time and make them see the generous side of you and you family. Once you determine your final amount, prioritize giving Zakah to needy family members, such as brothers, cousins, uncles, nephews, etc. Try not to outsource it. After giving, ask Allah (SWT) for forgiveness for any delay, and do not let past concerns about this matter weigh you down.

This is just the surface of an answer pointing you in the correct direction. Please go to a qualified and certified Mufti for greater clarity and accuracy. Ensure that you see the certificate! Or go to an institution that has an Ifta (fatwa) department. If they ask you for donation or pitch you for money, due to your age, etc. find another more qualified source to go to.

May Allah (SWT) accept your efforts, inshaAllah, Ameen.

Allah Certainly Knows Best.