The Muslim jurists are unanimous that most prevailing classes of insurance are not permissible under Islamic Law. In the case of such insurance, the insured is entitled only to the premiums paid by him over the period of insurance. Upon receipt of the indemnity or insured amount Zakat must be paid on the total amount of the premiums paid over the period of insurance (in other words, Zakat is paid for the preceding years as well). The surplus (difference between amount of indemnity and premiums paid) must be given to charity, without an intention to receive reward for the payment. During the currency of insurance policy, it is preferable to pay Zakat on the total cumulative amount of premiums which have been paid.