Discover who Is Eligible for Zakat in the Quran, with examples and rulings. Use our free Zakat Calculator to know your exact obligation.
Introduction
Zakat is far more than an act of charity. It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, a sacred obligation that purifies wealth and uplifts society. Every year, eligible Muslims give 2.5% of their qualifying wealth to those whom Allah has designated as recipients.
But who exactly can receive Zakat?
The Holy Quran provides a clear answer. In Surah At-Tawbah (9:60), Allah lists eight specific categories of people who are entitled to Zakat. Understanding these categories ensures your giving is both spiritually valid and socially impactful.
Before distributing, you must also calculate your Zakat accurately. Our free Zakat Calculator makes it simple—enter your gold, silver, savings, or business assets to see exactly how much you owe.
The Quranic Basis of Zakat Eligibility
Allah says in the Quran:
“Zakat expenditures are only for the poor, the needy, those employed to collect it, for bringing hearts together, for freeing captives, for those in debt, for the cause of Allah, and for the stranded traveler. [This is] an obligation from Allah. And Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise.”
— Surah At-Tawbah (9:60)
This verse establishes divine guidance—not human opinion—on who may receive Zakat.
The Eight Categories Eligible for Zakat
Below are the Quranic categories, with practical explanations and modern examples.
1. The Poor (Al-Fuqara’)
Those with no means of income or wealth to meet their basic needs.
Example: Families who cannot afford daily meals or shelter.
2. The Needy (Al-Masakin)
People who have some income but still fall short of essentials like food, housing, or healthcare.
Example: A worker whose wages cover rent but not medical bills.
3. Zakat Collectors (Amil Zakat)
Appointed individuals or organizations who collect and distribute Zakat.
Their wages or expenses can be paid from Zakat funds.
4. Those Whose Hearts Are to Be Reconciled (Muallafatul Quloob)
New Muslims or people inclined toward Islam who need support or encouragement.
Example: A convert facing family rejection and financial hardship.
5. To Free Slaves (Riqab)
Historically for freeing captives or bonded laborers.
Modern scholars extend this to fighting human trafficking or freeing people from oppressive servitude.
6. Those in Debt (Gharimeen)
Individuals burdened with halal (permissible) debts they cannot repay.
Example: Someone who borrowed for essential medical treatment.
7. In the Cause of Allah (Fi Sabilillah)
Projects that serve Islam—such as education, dawah, humanitarian relief, or legitimate defense.
Note: Scholars differ on the scope, so consult a trusted Islamic authority.
8. The Wayfarer (Ibn Sabeel)
Travelers stranded or cut off from resources while away from home, even if wealthy in their homeland.
Who Cannot Receive Zakat
The Quran also implies restrictions:
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The wealthy or those who meet their own needs.
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Immediate family members you are financially responsible for (parents, children, spouse).
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Descendants of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (Sayyids), according to most scholars.
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Non-Muslims, except when covered by the “hearts to be reconciled” category.
Calculating Your Zakat Correctly
Before distributing Zakat, determine whether you have reached Nisab—the minimum wealth threshold.
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Gold standard: 87.48 g of gold
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Silver standard: 612.36 g of silver
Once your wealth exceeds the Nisab for a full lunar year, pay 2.5% of eligible assets.
Tip: Use our free Zakat Calculator to avoid errors and fulfill this obligation precisely.
Common Questions
Can I give Zakat to siblings or cousins?
Yes, if they are eligible (poor/needy) and not directly under your financial care.
Can Zakat fund schools or hospitals?
Yes, if the recipients fall into the eight Quranic categories—for example, free treatment for the poor.
Should I give locally or abroad?
Scholars recommend helping local needy first, but international giving is allowed if greater need exists.