Q 8: Is it permissible to
give Zakah (obligatory charity) to a debtor?
In other words, is it permissible to give Zakah to a person who incurred debts to buy a piece of land, clothes for his children, or a car to help him fulfill his necessities?
A:
A person who was obliged to make a debt to have his own house, buy adequate clothes for himself or for those who are under his care such as his parents, children, or wife, or to buy a car to use for earning his as well as his family's livelihood and who is not able to pay back his debt is entitled to receive from Zakah money. Conversely, if such person made the concerned debt to buy a luxurious land or car just to entertain themselves; they are not to receive from Zakah. (Part No. 10; Page No. 9) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.