Comparison Guide

Zakat vs. Sadaqah

One is a pillar of Islam, the other is a door to immense voluntary rewards. Learn the critical differences.

Updated for 2025

Zakat

  • Obligatory (Fard) Pillar of Islam.
  • Fixed rate (2.5%) of savings.
  • Must be paid once a year (Hawl).
  • Restricted to 8 specific categories.

Sadaqah

  • Voluntary (Nafl) act of charity.
  • No fixed amount or rate.
  • Can be given at any time.
  • Can be given to anyone (Mosques, Hospitals).

Who can receive them?

The biggest difference lies in who is eligible to receive the money.

Zakat Recipients

Strictly for the 8 categories mentioned in Quran (Poor, Needy, Debtors, etc). Cannot be given to parents, children, or non-Muslims.

Sadaqah Recipients

Flexible. Can be given to anyone, including your own parents, children, non-Muslims, or for building mosques and hospitals.

Sadaqah Jariyah

A special type of Sadaqah is 'Sadaqah Jariyah' (Continuous Charity), like building a well, planting a tree, or building a school. The reward continues even after death. Zakat generally does not fall into this category as it must be consumed by the poor (Tamleek).

Fulfill Your Duty & Earn Extra

First, calculate your obligatory Zakat. Then, give Sadaqah generously to purify your wealth further.

Calculate ZakatGiving to Relatives

Common Questions

Q.Can I give Zakat to build a Mosque?

No. Zakat cannot be used for construction (Mosques, Hospitals). That must be done with Sadaqah.

Q.If I give a lot of Sadaqah, do I still have to pay Zakat?

Yes. Zakat is a debt to Allah. Sadaqah does not replace the obligation of Zakat, no matter how much you give.

Q.Can I give Sadaqah to my rich friend?

Yes, Sadaqah can be given to anyone as a gift or help, regardless of their wealth. Zakat is only for the poor.