Is it permissible for an institution to take from the zakat of trade goods to repay a work advance, pay house rent, and purchase air conditioners?
It is permissible for a poor debtor to receive zakat to repay his debt, as he is considered among those in debt (al-gharimin), provided that he does not possess any surplus wealth beyond his basic needs to settle his debt. It is also permissible to receive zakat for purchasing essential electrical appliances, such as a refrigerator and a washing machine, given the description of poverty, as well as for house rent. As for air conditioning units, it is permissible to receive their cost from zakat only if the dwelling is located in a region of extreme heat. There is no objection to an individual receiving zakat from the institution where he works, provided this is done with the owner's permission.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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