Using zakaat funds to pay for someone's operation
Question
An elderly man needs to go for an operation and does not have funds to pay for it. He is a male of 76 years and receives pension from the state government. He does not own a house and is supported by his one daughter.
My question is, can I use zakaat funds to pay for his operation?
Answer
Yes, it is permissible for you to pay his debt on his behalf with his consent. Hence, before paying the debt on his behalf you should take his consent and thereafter pay the hospital. In this way, his debt will be settled and your zakaat will also be discharged.
And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
- Answered by
- Mufti Zakaria Makada
- Checked & approved by
- Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)
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