Distributing Zakat: Should Recipients Know the Donor’s Identity

Zakat Distribution: Understanding the Rules and Etiquette

Question: My sister gives me Zakat to distribute to people. Should I inform the recipients that this Zakat is from my sister, even though I inform my sister about whom I gave the Zakat to?

Answer: There is no harm in your sister giving you Zakat to distribute. It is not necessary to inform the recipient that the Zakat came from your sister. However, two points should be considered. First, Zakat should only be given to those who are eligible, and if it is monetary Zakat, it must be given as money, not in the form of goods or items. Second, Zakat must be distributed immediately. Whoever is obligated to give Zakat should distribute it promptly without delay, and it is not permissible to hold onto it and distribute it little by little.

Respondent: Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi Hafizahullah 

Jeddah Dawah Center, Saudi Arabia  

Interpreter: Hasan Fuzail