Can Zakat Money Be Used to Buy Items for Needy Children

Understanding the Proper Use of Zakat for Supporting Needy Families

Question: A schoolgirl is in need of books, notebooks, shoes, and clothes. She has 11 siblings, and her father sells fruit, which barely covers their daily expenses. Can we buy these items for her with Zakat money?

Answer: When paying Zakat, it should be given in the form of money, as Zakat is the right of the needy, and altering its form is not permissible. If you buy something with Zakat money, you are exercising control over the recipient’s right, which is not allowed. Therefore, give Zakat money in its original form, allowing the family to decide how to use it. However, if it’s a non-Zakat charity or a donation, you can purchase necessary items for needy children without any issue.

 Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi Hafizahullah

❪Jeddah Dawah Center – Al-Salamah – Kingdom of Saudi Arabia❫