Q1. I took out a loan and still paying the loan amount. I also took a loan to help pay for my brother’s schooling. I am worth 250 000 dollars and I have a debt of 375 000 dollars.  How can I figure out my Zakat and (Q2) do I pay Zakat because I am already helping my family?

A1. In order to calculate your Zakat, you would first need to determine the amount of the Nisab. Once you have subtracted your debt amount and it is noticed that you still possess a surplus (which in your case you do posses the amount of nisab and more), Zakat would be compulsory upon you (on this $125 000). However, upon subtracting the amount of your debt, had you noticed that your wealth did not reach the Nisab amount , you would not be liable to pay any Zakat.

A2. If your brother has less than the nisab amount, then you can give your Zakat to him, so as to have him pay for his tuition with that money.

Allah certainly knows best.