Zakah on the deceased’s estate

Q: A rich man did not pay the Zakah (obligatory charity) due on his property throughout his life (Part No. 8; Page No. 308) until he died. His heirs want to inquire about the following:1. Is this estate Halal (lawful) and permissible for them to take and utilize without fear of any harm?2. Should they pay the Zakah of their father's property that he owed throughout his life, even if it consumes the whole estate?3. Is paying the Zakah due on their father's property a way of extending dutifulness to parents?

A: If their father is a Muslim and they know for certain that he did not pay the Zakah of his property, they should pay it from his wealth for all the missed years, because it is considered a debt due on their father. Indeed, the debt due to Allah (Exalted be He) is worthiest to be repaid. However, if some of them are minors, the case should be referred to the court for proper judgment and taking the necessary measures.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.