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Zakat Policy

Our Zakat Policy

Al-Noman Foundation is committed to the Shariah-compliant collection, management, and distribution of Zakat funds to eligible recipients.

Need to calculate your Zakat? Use Our Zakat Calculator
Understanding Zakat

What is Zakat?

One of the Five Pillars of Islam

Zakat is the third pillar of Islam and a mandatory act of worship for every Muslim who meets the minimum threshold of wealth (Nisab). It requires Muslims to give 2.5% of their qualifying wealth annually to those in need. Zakat purifies one's wealth, fosters compassion, and strengthens the bonds within the Muslim community. It is not simply charity -- it is a divine obligation that ensures wealth circulates to those who need it most, uplifting the poor and reducing inequality. The word "Zakat" itself means "purification" and "growth," reflecting its purpose of cleansing the giver's heart and wealth while nurturing the well-being of the recipient.

Our Promise

Our Commitment

Al-Noman Foundation upholds the highest standards of integrity in handling your Zakat contributions.

Eligible Programs

Zakat-Eligible Programs

The following Al-Noman Foundation programs accept Zakat funds and direct them to qualifying recipients.

Quran Memorization Sponsorship

Sponsor students memorizing the Holy Quran in Benin. These students come from underprivileged backgrounds and qualify as Zakat recipients under the categories of the poor, the needy, and those in the cause of Allah.

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Student Sponsorship / Education

Support students in Benin with school supplies, meals, and tuition. Many of our sponsored students come from families living below the poverty line, making them eligible Zakat recipients under the categories of the poor and the needy.

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Food Security Programs

Provide daily bread, Iftar meals, and Dabiha meat to families who cannot afford adequate nutrition. Recipients are verified as qualifying under the categories of the poor and the needy before Zakat funds are allocated.

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Healthcare / Medical Aid

Cover medical expenses for patients in Benin who cannot afford treatment. Our Hospital Freedom program frees patients trapped in hospitals due to unpaid bills -- qualifying recipients who are indebted and in dire need.

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Surah At-Tawbah 9:60

The Eight Categories of Zakat Recipients

Allah (SWT) has designated eight categories of people who are eligible to receive Zakat, as stated in the Quran.

  1. 1

    The Poor

    Al-Fuqara

    Those who do not have sufficient means to meet their basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter. They live below the minimum standard of living and lack the resources to sustain themselves.

  2. 2

    The Needy

    Al-Masakin

    Those who have some income but it is not enough to cover their essential needs. They may have partial means of support but still fall short of a dignified standard of living.

  3. 3

    Zakat Administrators

    Al-Amilina Alayha

    Those appointed to collect, manage, and distribute Zakat funds. This category ensures the proper and efficient administration of Zakat within the community.

  4. 4

    Those Whose Hearts Are to Be Reconciled

    Al-Mu'allafati Qulubuhum

    New Muslims or those whose hearts are inclined toward Islam. Zakat may be given to support them in their transition and strengthen their connection to the faith and the Muslim community.

  5. 5

    Those in Bondage

    Fir-Riqab

    Historically, this referred to freeing slaves. In the modern context, scholars extend this to include those trapped in situations of oppression, human trafficking, or unjust captivity.

  6. 6

    Those in Debt

    Al-Gharimin

    Those who are burdened by debt they cannot repay, provided the debt was not incurred for sinful purposes. Zakat can help relieve their financial burden and restore their dignity.

  7. 7

    In the Cause of Allah

    Fi Sabilillah

    Those striving in the path of Allah, including efforts in education, dawah (spreading knowledge of Islam), and other noble causes that serve the Muslim community and humanity at large.

  8. 8

    The Wayfarer

    Ibn As-Sabil

    Travelers who are stranded or in need during their journey, even if they are wealthy in their homeland. Zakat provides them with the means to complete their travel and return home safely.

Transparency

Fund Separation & Accountability

We maintain strict financial controls to ensure your Zakat is handled with the utmost integrity and transparency.

Dedicated Zakat Account: Zakat funds are deposited into a dedicated Zakat-only bank account, completely separate from all other organizational funds.

No Mixing of Funds: Zakat funds are NEVER mixed with Sadaqah, operational expenses, administrative costs, or any other donations. Complete separation is maintained at all times.

Monthly Internal Review: Monthly internal reviews ensure all Zakat funds are allocated to eligible recipients in a timely manner and in accordance with Islamic guidelines.

Detailed Records: Comprehensive records are maintained for every Zakat transaction, including collection, allocation, and distribution -- ready for audit and donor transparency at any time.

Donor Confirmation: Donors receive confirmation that their Zakat was distributed to eligible recipients, giving you peace of mind that your obligation has been fulfilled.

How It Works

Distribution & Approval Process

Our step-by-step process ensures every Zakat dollar reaches its rightful recipient.

1

Donor Designates Zakat

When making a donation, the donor designates their contribution as Zakat during the checkout process. This ensures the funds are tagged and tracked separately from the very beginning.

2

Deposited Into Separate Account

The designated Zakat funds are deposited directly into our dedicated Zakat bank account. These funds are kept completely separate from Sadaqah and operational accounts.

3

Identify Eligible Recipients

Our team on the ground identifies and verifies potential recipients based on the eight Quranic categories. Each recipient's eligibility is assessed and documented before funds are allocated.

4

Board Reviews & Approves

All Zakat distributions are reviewed and approved by the Al-Noman Foundation board of directors. This ensures oversight, accountability, and alignment with Shariah principles.

5

Zakat Distributed to Recipients

Approved Zakat funds are distributed directly to eligible recipients through our programs. Distribution is carried out efficiently to ensure timely support reaches those in need.

6

Donor Receives Confirmation

After distribution, the donor receives a confirmation report detailing how their Zakat was allocated and distributed. This provides full transparency and assurance that your Zakat obligation has been fulfilled.

Compliance

Shariah Compliance Statement

Our Formal Commitment to Shariah Compliance

  • Al-Noman Foundation is committed to ensuring all Zakat funds are handled in full compliance with Islamic Shariah. We treat every Zakat dollar as a sacred trust (Amanah) from our donors.
  • Our distribution process follows the guidelines set forth in the Quran and Sunnah. We strictly adhere to the eight categories of Zakat recipients as defined in Surah At-Tawbah (9:60).
  • We consult with qualified Islamic scholars to ensure proper Zakat allocation, resolve questions of eligibility, and stay current with scholarly guidance on modern Zakat issues.
  • We welcome questions and feedback about our Zakat practices. Transparency is central to our mission, and we are always available to discuss how your Zakat is handled. Contact us at info@alnoman.org.

Give Your Zakat With Confidence

Trust Al-Noman Foundation to distribute your Zakat to those who need it most, in full compliance with Islamic Shariah.