What is the ruling on looking at the hand of a non-mahram woman when giving her charity?

Scholars have differed on the ruling concerning looking at the hands of a non-mahram woman:

The Hanafis and Malikis permitted it in the absence of suspicion, while the Shafi'is and Hanbalis prohibited it in the more authoritative view, except out of necessity.

It is obligatory for a man to lower his gaze from a non-mahram woman in all circumstances, except for a valid legitimate purpose such as testifying, medical treatment, engagement, or transactions. The gaze should be limited to the extent of the necessity.

Some jurists permitted the witness and the transactor to look at the face and hands of a woman out of necessity, while disliking looking at a young woman who might arouse desire.

The Hanafis hold that a man is not permitted to look at a non-mahram woman except her face and hands, based on the Almighty's saying: "And not display their adornment except what is apparent thereof," and due to the woman's need to interact with men.

Our advice to the questioner is to lower his gaze from the hand of the woman to whom he gives charity, unless there is a need.