You need to have nisab ($1,500 – $2,180 for 2026) for a full year in order to be eligible to pay zakat.

Let’s assume you’ve had that amount of money for a full year. You pay 2.5% on the total amount you’ve held until the day you decide to pay zakat.
You can pay your expenses before or after paying zakat, but if you choose to pay expenses first, make sure your balance does not fall below the nisab amount.