Is It Acceptable to Calculate Zakat Using a Solar Year?

Yes, it is acceptable to calculate Zakat using the solar year.

While the traditional method of calculating Zakat is based on the lunar calendar, there is no issue with using the solar calendar, though some adjustments are necessary.

The primary difference between the solar and lunar calendars is that the lunar year is shorter by approximately 11 days. This results in a discrepancy in how Zakat is calculated over time. If you use the solar year, you must account for this difference by slightly adjusting the Zakat rate.

According to scholars, it is entirely permissible to calculate Zakat according to the solar calendar. However, to account for the 11-day difference between the solar and lunar years, the Zakat rate needs to be adjusted. Specifically, the Zakat rate would increase by a small margin to compensate for the shorter lunar year.

For instance, the Zakat rate would be calculated as:

• Zakat rate for the solar calendar: 2.5% (or 0.025)
• Adjustment for the 11-day difference:

0.025 + (0.025 x 11/354) = 2.578%

This adjustment ensures that Zakat's calculations remain consistent and fair despite the difference in calendar systems.

This method has been endorsed by the International Shariah Board of Zakah at the Kuwait Zakah House, making it an accepted approach. As long as the proper adjustment is made, calculating Zakat based on the solar calendar is both logical and permissible.

Ultimately, while the lunar year is preferred, the solar year method can be used with minor adjustments, as confirmed by Islamic scholars.

And Allah knows best!