Is it permissible for an Islamic association, which is in financial need to cover rent and other expenses, to use the collected Zakat al-Fitr?

Scholars differed on the permissible recipients of Zakat al-Fitr, holding three views:

1. The Majority: It is permissible to disburse it to the eight categories to whom zakat on wealth is given. 2. The Malikis and some Hanbalis (a choice of Ibn Taymiyyah): It is to be allocated solely to the poor and the needy. This is the preponderant opinion because Allah obligated it as food, and due to the explicit text of the hadith: "a food for the needy." 3. The Shafi'is: It is obligatory to distribute it among the eight categories, or among those of them who are found.

It is incumbent upon those responsible for distributing Zakat al-Fitr to give it to the poor and the needy. As for giving zakat to da'wah (preaching) organizations in Europe, some scholars have deemed it permissible if they are in dire need, considering it to fall under "Fī Sabīlillāh" (in the cause of Allah).

Delaying the payment of Zakat al-Fitr beyond the day of Eid is not permissible. Indeed, some scholars held that it is not permissible to delay it beyond the Eid prayer. Whoever delays it beyond the day of Eid has committed a sin by consensus.