Must the zakat be given out again, or is it sufficient to give the amount that was given to the brother with the intention of zakat, without informing him, and which he then returned?

First: It is permissible to pay zakat to a poor or needy brother whose maintenance is not obligatory upon you. His maintenance becomes obligatory if you would inherit from him should he die, due to the absence of a father or a male son for him. If his maintenance is obligatory, it is not permissible to pay him zakat unless he is indebted to repay his debt.

Second: If a person is eligible for zakat, and the money is given with the intention of zakat, it is not permissible to mislead him into believing that the money is a loan.

Third: When giving zakat to an eligible recipient, it is not appropriate to inform him that it is zakat; rather, one should say to him: "This is assistance," and so forth, unless his outward appearance indicates strength, wealth, and ability to earn. In such a case, he should be told: "This money is zakat, and it is only permissible for its rightful recipient," or if it is known that he will not accept zakat unless he is aware of its nature.

Fourth: If the brother returns the money given to him, believing it to be zakat, do not accept it from him. If it is accepted, the money must be returned to him, even as a gift. If he refuses, the money should be given to another eligible recipient of zakat.