Is it permissible to give Zakat al-Mal (money Zakat) to a person who is in debt and employed, and to an unmarried brother who is newly employed and earns 8000 riyals, for the purpose of marriage?

It is permissible to give Zakat to someone burdened with debt who is unable to repay it, even if he is employed, because he is considered among the Gharimin (debtors), who are one of the eight categories of Zakat recipients mentioned in the Almighty's saying: (Indeed, Sadaqat (charities) are only for the poor and the needy, and those employed to collect [Zakat], and those whose hearts are to be reconciled, and for freeing captives [or slaves], and for those in debt, and for the cause of Allah, and for the stranded traveler - an obligation [imposed] by Allah. And Allah is Knowing and Wise) At-Tawbah/60. However, if he possesses the means to repay his debt, then it is not permissible to give him Zakat.

Similarly, it is permissible to give Zakat to someone who wishes to marry if he cannot afford the customary expenses for marriage, provided there is no extravagance involved, as he falls under the category of the poor. The Permanent Committee for Ifta' has permitted this, and Sheikh Ibn 'Uthaymin clarified that a person's need for marriage can be as pressing as his need for food and drink.