Apply for Assistance

Ramadan 2026 Applications for Zakat Assistance are now CLOSED

Applications were open from Feb. 17, 2026 at 7 PM, to March 4, 2026.

Applications will be reviewed after Ramadan. Because the number of applicants is usually greater than the funds allocated, Zakat Fund will randomly select applicants in a lottery; if you are selected you will be contacted. Please remember that submitting an application does not guarantee that you will receive a cash grant.

If additional funds become available, we will open up another application cycle. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

May you have a blessed Ramadan, ameen!

Application Process +

  • Submit only one application per family in a household.
  • Please complete and submit ALL required documentation on the application link
  • Applications will remain open from February 17th, 6PM through March 4th, 11:59PM 2026.
  • Because the number of applications usually exceeds the amount of funding available, applications will be randomly selected for assistance.
  • After Ramadan, our case managers, led by social workers, will review applications, and distribute grants until allocated 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 applications@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 $600 to a maximum of $3,000
  • Our average grant is about $1,700

Application Assistance - Information Sessions

We encourage everyone to attend an information session, where you can learn how to properly complete your application, and receive assistance with filling out your application. If you would like to attend a session, you must fill out this form: FORM

Session 1: Monday, February 23, 2026- POSTPONED DUE TO STORM

Time: 11:00am-2:00pm

Location: Islamic Center of New York City; 350 6th Avenue, New York, NY 10029 (MAP)

Session 2: Tuesday, February 24, 2026

Time: 11:00am-2:00pm

Location: Harlem, New York (please signup for exact location)

Session 3: Wednesday, February 25, 2026

Time: 8:30pm-9:30pm

Location: Virtual (Online - link will be emailed after you sign up)

If you have any questions please email us at applications@zakatfundofnyc.org and we will try our best to help you, inshallah.