When giving Zakat, many Muslims want to be confident that their donation is reaching people who are eligible to receive it.

Islam sets out clear guidelines for who can receive Zakat, helping ensure that this form of charity supports those who are most in need. Understanding these categories can provide reassurance that your Zakat is being given correctly and in line with Islamic principles.

This guide explains who can receive Zakat in a clear and practical way, so you can give with confidence and peace of mind.

Why Eligibility Matters

Zakat is different from voluntary charity. It is an obligation with specific rules around how it is collected and distributed. It must only be executed in line with these rules.

Giving Zakat to eligible recipients helps ensure that this obligation is fulfilled properly and that Zakat reaches people who are facing genuine hardship.

The Eight Categories of Zakat Recipients

The Qur’an outlines eight categories of people who are eligible to receive Zakat. These categories cover a range of needs and circumstances and were mentioned in the famous verse of Surah Al-Tawbah:

إِنَّمَا الصَّدَقَاتُ لِلْفُقَرَاءِ وَالْمَسَاكِينِ وَالْعَامِلِينَ عَلَيْهَا وَالْمُؤَلَّفَةِ قُلُوبُهُمْ وَفِي الرِّقَابِ وَالْغَارِمِينَ وَفِي سَبِيلِ اللَّهِ وَابْنِ السَّبِيلِ ۖ فَرِيضَةً مِّنَ اللَّهِ ۗ وَاللَّهُ عَلِيمٌ حَكِيمٌ

 “Zakat is only for the poor, the needy, those employed to collect it, those whose hearts are to be reconciled, for freeing captives, for those in debt, in the cause of Allah, and for the stranded traveller – an obligation from Allah. And Allah is Knowing and Wise.” (Surah Al Tawbah: 60)

1. People living in poverty

This includes individuals and families who do not have enough wealth to meet their basic needs.

2. People experiencing severe financial hardship

Those who may have income but are overwhelmed by debts or financial pressures that prevent them from meeting essential expenses.

3. Zakat administrators

People who are appointed to collect and distribute Zakat in an organised and accountable way.

4. Those whose hearts are to be reconciled

Individuals who may need support to strengthen community ties or stability.

5. People in bondage or facing forms of exploitation

Historically, this referred to freeing people from bondage. Today, it is understood more broadly to include people facing severe forms of exploitation or oppression.

6. People burdened by debt

Individuals who are unable to repay debts taken on for legitimate and necessary reasons.

7. In the path of God

Those working in causes that serve and support the wider community, according to Islamic principles.

8. Travellers in need

People who are stranded or facing hardship while travelling and are unable to access their resources.

Can Zakat Be Given to Family Members?

Zakat generally cannot be given to immediate family members who are already your responsibility, such as parents, children, or a spouse.

However, it may be given to extended family members if they meet the eligibility criteria and are not financially supported by you.

Can Zakat Be Given Locally and Overseas?

Zakat can be given both locally and internationally, as long as it reaches eligible recipients.

Many people choose to give through a charity that works in multiple regions, allowing Zakat to support communities facing the greatest levels of need.

Giving Zakat Through Islamic Relief Australia

Giving Zakat through Islamic Relief Australia helps ensure that your donation is distributed according to Islamic guidelines and reaches eligible recipients.

Islamic Relief Australia works with trusted partners to support vulnerable communities around the world, while maintaining clear accountability and oversight.

Fulfilling a Crucial Pillar Starts with Understanding

Understanding who can receive Zakat helps build confidence in your giving.

By ensuring that your Zakat reaches eligible recipients, you can fulfil this obligation correctly and support people facing hardship with dignity and care. It is crucial that you do so, given the obligatory nature of this Pillar.

We ask Allah (SWT) to accept your worship, and encourage you to find out more through our many Zakat resources throughout our website.