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Can I receive zakat as a new Muslim?

By · 2 min read
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Photo: Grez, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Yes, if you're in need. The Quran includes "those whose hearts are to be brought together" among the people who can receive zakat, and many scholars apply this to new Muslims. You can also qualify like anyone else if you're poor or in debt. There's no shame in it: zakat exists exactly for moments like this.

A category made for you

۞ إِنَّمَا ٱلصَّدَقَـٰتُ لِلْفُقَرَآءِ وَٱلْمَسَـٰكِينِ وَٱلْعَـٰمِلِينَ عَلَيْهَا وَٱلْمُؤَلَّفَةِ قُلُوبُهُمْ وَفِى ٱلرِّقَابِ وَٱلْغَـٰرِمِينَ وَفِى سَبِيلِ ٱللَّهِ وَٱبْنِ ٱلسَّبِيلِ ۖ فَرِيضَةً مِّنَ ٱللَّهِ ۗ وَٱللَّهُ عَلِيمٌ حَكِيمٌ "Zakah expenditures are only for the poor and for the needy and for those employed for it and for bringing hearts together [for Islam] and for freeing captives [or slaves] and for those in debt and for the cause of Allah and for the [stranded] traveler - an obligation [imposed] by Allah. And Allah is Knowing and Wise." Quran 9:60

"Bringing hearts together" (al-mu'allafati qulubuhum) was used in the Prophet's time to support people new to Islam. Scholars differ on how it applies today, but many say it still covers new Muslims who need help settling into their faith, especially when they've lost family support.

If you're struggling

Many converts face real hardship after their shahada:

  • being cut off by family or losing a home,
  • losing a job, for example one that involved alcohol or pork,
  • debts from before Islam,
  • costs of learning, like classes or travel to a mosque.

If any of these apply, you may qualify as poor, needy or in debt, as well as under the new-Muslim category. See Who can receive zakat? and Can I keep my job at a bar after becoming Muslim?

No shame in receiving

Zakat isn't a handout; it's your right as a member of the community, set by Allah. Receiving it when you need it is just as Islamic as paying it when you can. The Muslims who pay zakat are fulfilling a pillar of their faith through you.

How to ask

  • Your local mosque: many have a zakat fund or a convert support worker.
  • Convert support organizations: several in the USA and Europe offer zakat-funded help.
  • National Muslim charities: many run hardship grants for individuals.

You'll usually be asked a few questions about your situation. Be honest; that's all that's needed.

Key points
  • The Quran has a zakat category for new Muslims.
  • You can also qualify as poor, needy or a debtor.
  • Receiving zakat in need is your right.
  • Ask your mosque or a convert support group.
Tip: If asking feels hard, ask a trusted Muslim friend or imam to make the first contact for you. People are often eager to help converts.

People also ask

Can I give zakat to a mosque?

Not for building or running costs, according to most scholars. You can give it to a mosque's zakat fund for the poor.

Read the full answer →
Should I give zakat locally or abroad?

Local is preferred, but most scholars allow sending zakat abroad for greater need or relatives. Many people split it.

Read the full answer →
Can a wife give zakat to her husband?

Yes, according to many scholars, if he qualifies. The Prophet said such a wife gets two rewards. Abu Hanifa disagreed.

Read the full answer →
Can I give zakat to my parents or siblings?

Not to parents, grandparents or children, since you must support them. Siblings and other relatives in need can receive it.

Read the full answer →
Can I give zakat to non-Muslims?

Most scholars say zakat goes to Muslims, with a debated exception. Voluntary charity to non-Muslims is fully allowed.

Read the full answer →