The method of distributing Zakaat

THE METHOD OF DISTRIBUTING ZAKAAT IS AS FOLLOWS:

  1. Zakaat is Fardh at the rate of 2.5%.
  2. Zakaat should be given as soon as possible after it becomes due. It is possible that death may occur and thus lead to failure in fulfilling one’s obligations.
  3. A poor man cannot be paid for his work from Zakaat, nor can Zakaat be given in payment of anyone’s services, except when an Islamic government pays salaries to persons appointed by the government to collect Zakaat.
  4. Zakaat will only be valid if the recipient is made the owner of that amount.
  5. Zakaat cannot be given or used for the construction of a Masjid, Madrasah, hospital, a well, a bridge or any other public amenity.
  6. Poor students can be given a bursary from Zakaat. If the student is of an understanding age, the Zakaat must be given to him personally; and if he is not of an understanding age, then his Shar’ee Wakeel (parents or legal guardian) must be given possession of the amount.
  7. Zakaat can be paid in kind from the same merchandise on which it is due or alternatively, it could be paid in cash. It is of VITAL importance to ensure at all times that the recipient is made the OWNER of the ZAKAAT.
  8. Authority can be delegated to another person or an organization for the distribution of Zakaat, so that it be utilised in accordance with the laws of Zakaat.
  9. If a person requests someone to give a certain amount on his behalf as Zakaat, and that sum is given out, then that Zakaat will be valid. The sum given will be a debt upon the one who made this request.
  10. If an agent is given Zakaat for distribution, and he does not distribute it then the Zakaat will not be regarded as fulfilled, and the sin of not discharging the obligatory duty of Zakaat will remain a burden on whom it was Farz.
  11. It is Afdhal (best) to give one’s Zakaat when it is due, rather than wait for Ramadan.