Recipients of Zakat — One-Sentence Answer
Zakat may be given to eight categories named in the Quran (9:60): the poor, the needy, zakat administrators, those whose hearts are reconciled, freeing captives, debtors, those in the cause of Allah, and the stranded traveler. The poor and the needy receive the largest share in modern practice.
The 8 Categories (Asnaf)
The poor
Al-FuqaraThose with little to no wealth, below the level needed to meet basic needs.
The needy
Al-MasakinThose in hardship whose income does not cover essential living costs.
Zakat administrators
Al-AmilinThose appointed to collect and distribute zakat (their wages may be paid from it).
Those whose hearts are to be reconciled
Al-Mu’allafati QulubuhumNew Muslims or those inclined toward Islam who may be supported.
Freeing captives
Fir-RiqabLiberating those in bondage or captivity.
Debtors
Al-GhariminThose burdened by lawful debt they cannot repay.
In the cause of Allah
Fi SabilillahStriving and works in the path of Allah (scope discussed across positions).
The wayfarer
Ibn as-SabilStranded travelers cut off from their wealth.
Scope details (especially "in the cause of Allah") differ across schools of Islamic jurisprudence; consult a scholar of your tradition for specific cases.
FAQ
Who can receive Zakat?
Zakat may be given to eight categories named in the Quran (At-Tawbah 9:60): the poor (al-fuqara), the needy (al-masakin), zakat administrators, those whose hearts are reconciled, freeing captives, debtors, in the cause of Allah, and the wayfarer. Most contemporary distribution focuses on the poor and the needy.
Who cannot receive Zakat?
Zakat is generally not given to one’s own dependents one is already obliged to support (spouse, minor children, parents), to the wealthy who are above nisab, or — in the view of most schools — to the Prophet’s family (Banu Hashim). Practices vary by school; consult a scholar in unclear cases.
Can Zakat be given to family members?
Zakat can be given to relatives who are eligible (e.g., a poor sibling, aunt, or adult child you are not obliged to support) — and giving to needy relatives carries added reward. It cannot be used to discharge a maintenance obligation you already owe (spouse, minor children, parents).
Can Zakat be given to non-Muslims?
The eight zakat categories are generally understood to apply to Muslim recipients (with discussion around "reconciling hearts"). General charity (sadaqah) may be given more broadly. For obligatory zakat, follow the position of your school.
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