What is the minimum amount of money or property that makes a Muslim in America eligible for zakat funds? Is it permissible to consider new Muslims in American prisons as recipients of zakat? Is it permissible for a mosque to use charity funds to pay someone's utility bills?

The Almighty God clarified the categories of Zakat recipients in Surat At-Tawbah, verse (60). Among these categories are the poor and the needy, who are those whose income is insufficient for themselves and their families for a year. If a Muslim detainee who is new to Islam is poor or indebted, he may receive from Zakat to meet his needs and repay his debt. It is permissible to give Zakat to those whose hearts are to be reconciled (Al-Mu'allafatu Qulubuhum) to strengthen their faith, even if they are wealthy. It is permissible to pay utility bills from charity (Sadaqah) or Zakat if the person is a debtor (Gharim) who cannot afford to pay them.