Can zakat be given before its due time?
Lunar calendar is used for calculating zakat as it is the case in the worships like fasting and hajj. One year is necessary to pass after obtaining the goods or money equaI to the amount of nisab for zakat to be obligatory. However, the owner of the goods can give zakat for them before its due time if he wishes. The zakat that was due but not given in the past can be given at once; it is permissible and appropriate to be give the zakat which is due in the future now if there are some people who are really in need.
