The hawl: the lunar year of zakat explained simply
AmanaFi team · Updated · 1 min read
The hawl is a full lunar year of owning the nisab. Once that year has passed, zakat becomes due. As the lunar year has 354 or 355 days, the date moves forward by about ten days each Gregorian year.
Setting your date
The count starts from the day your savings reach the nisab. Many people choose a fixed yearly date, often tied to a Hijri calendar day (for example the 1st of Ramadan), to calculate once a year and keep things simple.
When the amount changes during the year
Schools have different details depending on whether the sum stayed above the nisab all year.
- Gains and additions during the year are often attached to the existing capital.
- If wealth falls below the nisab, some views restart the year.
- Confirm with a qualified person for your case.
Getting organised
Note your hawl date, schedule a reminder a month before, and set aside part of your zakat each month so you do not pay it all at once.
Frequently asked
How do I convert a Gregorian date to a Hijri date?
Use a reliable Hijri calendar. Your phone's calendar can display it, and dates may differ by a day depending on moon sighting.
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