Apply for Assistance

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Applications for 2026 Zakat assistance will open on the night of Feb. 17, 2026.

This year, online applications for Zakat assistance will be open for two weeks (February 17 to March 3) to give more community members an opportunity to apply.

While you wait for applications to open, please gather the following required documents:

  • Valid photo ID (government ID or passport)

  • Three most recent, complete bank statements (PDF format required)

  • Proof of government benefits (SNAP, SSI, cash assistance, etc.)

  • Proof of income (if applicable)

  • Birth certificates for all children (under 18)  in your household

Please remember that submitting an application does not guarantee that you will receive a cash grant this year.

May you have a blessed Ramadan, ameen!

Application Process +

  • Please complete and submit ALL required documentation on the application link
  • Applications will remain open from February 17th through March 3rd, 2026.
  • After Ramadan, Our case managers, led by social workers, will review applications, and distribute grants until funds are depleted.
  • Only COMPLETE applications will be reviewed
  • You will receive an email once your application is complete and all required documentation has been submitted.
  • Approved applications will receive a payment by check or direct deposit from Zakat Fund of NYC as soon as possible.
  • Submitting and application does not guarantee that you will receive a cash grant.

If you are in need but do not have the necessary documents to complete the application, please email apply@zakatfundofnyc.org.

Eligibility Criteria +

Individuals and families in need, irrespective of faith, can apply. In order to qualify for aid, you must:

  • Live in the New York City Metro area
  • Demonstrate that you cannot, or soon will not be able to, pay for your basic needs (food, clothing, and housing)
  • Declare all income and expenses, assets and debts
  • Provide photo ID, relevant documents supporting circumstances including bank statements, debt statements, and proof of address (utility bill, etc.)

Additionally, applicants will be disqualified from assistance if they:

  • Make more than $3600 in monthly income; or
  • Are found to be dishonest in the application process.

Grant Amount +

  • The amount of the grant you may receive depends on your family size, family income, estimated expenses, and any debts you have
  • Grants range from $500 to a maximum of $3,000
  • Our average grant is $1,500

Questions +

Please email info@zakatfundofnyc.org with any inquiries and we will do our best to get back to you.

The information that you provide in this process is strictly confidential. We will not share your personal information or use it for any purpose outside of our casework process.