Is it permissible to give zakat to a married sister who works, as does her husband, but she is in debt?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
It is permissible to give to a sister to pay off her debt if she is unable to pay and her debt is due (not deferred), as she would then be considered among those in debt (al-ghaarimeen). However, if her debt is deferred, scholars have differed on the permissibility of giving her zakat. The more correct view according to al-Nawawi is that it is not permissible because she is not in immediate need of it. The prohibition is further emphasized if she is able to pay from her salary.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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- Original fatwa ID
- 180967
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- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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