Is it permissible for the International

Q 1: We have a charitable society in the city of Al-Ghat that engages in charitable projects and is sponsored by a number of donors. One of the tasks undertaken is the distribution of Zakah (obligatory charity) to the eligible recipients through the organization's committee. If - for example - a sum of one hundred thousand Riyals has been received; to whom should it be distributed? Should the Zakah be given to the guardian of household, women, children, or to poor young men? What are the characteristics of the qualified recipients these days, as many elderly and infirm persons have tens of thousands or more in savings for instance. Can they be counted as qualified recipients? If the answer is no; who is entitled to receive Zakah in this case? Please provide us with the correct answer, as we are troubled by these issues. May Allah reward you with the best!

A: This Zakah must be given to those who are entitled to receive it amongst those whom Allah mentions in His Statement (Exalted be He): (Part No. 9; Page No. 456) As-Sadaqât (here it means Zakât) are only for the Fuqarâ’ (poor), and the Masâkin (needy) Accordingly, if those whom you have mentioned are included in the stipulated categories, they should be given from Zakah. But if not; it is not permissible to give them from it. It is also permissible to give those who have savings, if the sum they have cannot fulfill their needs for an entire year. As for the recipients who are underage, Zakah should be given to their guardians whether their parents or others.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.