Islamic Inheritance Calculator
Calculate inheritance shares according to Quran and Sunnah for UK Muslims
Surviving Relatives
Inheritance Distribution Results
What is Islamic Inheritance Law?
Islamic inheritance law, known as Faraid or Mirath, is a comprehensive system derived from the Quran and Sunnah that governs the distribution of a deceased Muslim’s estate. This divine law ensures fair and just distribution amongst rightful heirs according to predetermined shares.
Key Principles
- Fixed Shares: The Quran specifies exact portions for different categories of heirs
- Divine Command: These laws are considered obligatory and cannot be altered by personal preference
- Justice and Equity: The system prevents favouritism and ensures balanced wealth distribution
- Immediate Distribution: Unlike some legal systems, Islamic law mandates prompt distribution
Categories of Heirs
Primary Heirs (Dhawu al-Furudh)
These heirs have guaranteed fixed shares as specified in the Quran:
- Spouse: Husband receives 1/2 (no children) or 1/4 (with children); Wife receives 1/4 (no children) or 1/8 (with children)
- Parents: Each parent receives 1/6 when children exist; Mother gets 1/3 when no children
- Children: Sons and daughters inherit with sons receiving twice the share of daughters
- Siblings: Various shares depending on type and circumstances
Residuary Heirs (Asabah)
After fixed shares, remaining estate goes to residuary heirs, typically male relatives in specific order of priority.
Distant Relatives (Dhawu al-Arham)
When no primary or residuary heirs exist, inheritance passes to distant relatives such as maternal uncles and cousins.
Important Notes for UK Muslims
- This calculator provides guidance based on traditional Islamic jurisprudence
- UK law may require additional steps to implement Islamic inheritance
- Consider preparing an Islamic Will to ensure your wishes are legally recognised
- Consult with Islamic scholars and legal professionals for complex cases
- Inheritance tax implications may apply under UK law
Calculation Scenarios
Perfect Distribution (Kamil)
When the total of all fixed shares equals exactly one (100%), no further calculation is needed. This represents an ideal scenario where all shares fit perfectly.
Increase (Awl)
When fixed shares total more than 100%, all shares are proportionally reduced to fit within the estate. This ensures fair distribution when claims exceed the available estate.
Return (Radd)
When fixed shares total less than 100% and no residuary heirs exist, remaining estate is distributed proportionally among eligible fixed-share heirs (excluding spouses in most schools).
Residuary Distribution
When fixed shares total less than 100% and residuary heirs exist, the remainder goes to residuary heirs according to specific priority rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, the fixed shares (Faraid) specified in the Quran cannot be altered. However, you may distribute up to one-third of your estate through a will (Wasiyyah) to non-heirs or charitable causes. The remaining two-thirds must be distributed according to Islamic inheritance law.
Adopted children do not automatically inherit under Islamic law as inheritance is based on blood relations. However, you can provide for adopted children through the one-third bequest (Wasiyyah) portion of your estate or through gifts during your lifetime.
UK law doesn’t automatically apply Islamic inheritance rules. To ensure your estate is distributed according to Islamic law, you should prepare a properly drafted Islamic Will that complies with UK legal requirements whilst implementing Shariah principles.
Before distributing inheritance, the following must be settled in order: funeral expenses, outstanding debts, and any valid bequests (up to one-third of the estate). Only the remaining estate is then distributed according to Islamic inheritance shares.
This principle reflects the traditional Islamic understanding that males have greater financial responsibilities, including providing for their wives, children, and sometimes extended family members. Females inherit without such financial obligations, and their inheritance is entirely their own to use as they wish.
Generally, non-Muslims cannot inherit through the automatic Islamic inheritance system. However, a Muslim can provide for non-Muslim relatives or friends through the one-third bequest (Wasiyyah) portion of their estate.
Preparing Your Islamic Will in the UK
For UK Muslims, preparing an Islamic Will is crucial to ensure your estate is distributed according to Shariah whilst complying with English law. Here are key considerations:
Essential Elements
- Legal Compliance: Ensure your will meets UK legal requirements for validity
- Islamic Provisions: Include clear instructions for Islamic inheritance distribution
- Executors: Appoint trustees knowledgeable in both Islamic law and UK legal requirements
- Specific Instructions: Include burial wishes and religious obligations
Professional Guidance
Consider consulting both Islamic scholars familiar with inheritance law and UK solicitors specialising in Islamic Wills to ensure comprehensive compliance with both religious and legal requirements.
References
- Al-Quran, Surah An-Nisa (4:11-12, 4:176) – Primary source for Islamic inheritance laws and fixed shares distribution.
- Sahih al-Bukhari, Book of Inheritance (Faraid) – Prophetic traditions explaining inheritance principles and applications.
- Sahih Muslim, Book of Inheritance – Additional authentic narrations on Islamic inheritance rules and exceptions.
- Ibn Rushd, Bidayat al-Mujtahid – Classical jurisprudential text comparing different schools’ approaches to inheritance law.
- Al-Kasani, Bada’i al-Sana’i – Comprehensive Hanafi jurisprudence text covering detailed inheritance calculations and scenarios.
- UK HM Revenue & Customs, “Inheritance Tax Manual” – Official guidance on UK inheritance tax implications and exemptions.
- Law Commission of England and Wales, “Intestacy and Family Provision Claims on Death” – UK legal framework for inheritance disputes and distribution.