Topic

Zakat & Charity

Zakat, sadaqah and giving to charity. Short, honest answers for new Muslims.

What is zakat al-fitr?

A small charity every Muslim pays at the end of Ramadan, children included. It purifies your fast and feeds the poor on Eid.

Look for a separate zakat fund, a clear zakat policy, audited accounts and eligible recipients. Here's a quick checklist.

No. Your intention is what counts, so you can give it quietly or as a gift. Just make sure they're eligible.

Yes, if the student is poor or in debt and studying something useful. Some scholars want it given to the student, not the school.

Yes, if the person qualifies, like someone in debt or poverty. Check the need, fees and recipient first. Here's what to look for.

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

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

Yes. The Quran names "those whose hearts are brought together" among zakat recipients, and new Muslims in need can qualify.

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

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

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

Zakat goes to eight groups named in the Quran, including the poor, the needy, debtors and travelers. Here's who qualifies.