When seeking forgiveness with the intention of having prayers answered, is it necessary to specify these prayers in the intention, or is it sufficient to seek forgiveness with the intention of fulfilling a need, given that God knows what is in the hearts?

Seeking forgiveness (Istighfar) is a virtuous act through which one hopes for the removal and alleviation of distress. Whoever adheres to seeking forgiveness, Allah will make for him a way out of every difficulty, a relief from every worry, and will provide for him from where he does not expect. This occurs even if the servant does not have the intention, because Allah has ordained this reward for this utterance. As Allah says: "And said, 'Ask forgiveness of your Lord. Indeed, He is ever Forgiving. He will send [rain from] the sky upon you in [abundance]. And give you increase in wealth and children and make for you gardens and make for you rivers.'" (Quran 71:10-12). Thus, abundant seeking of forgiveness is good and hoped to bring about what is desired and repel what is feared. It is preferable to combine seeking forgiveness with supplicating for what is in one's heart.