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Atta-ur-Rehman

Am I Permitted to Give Zakat to My Grandparents?

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Zakat cannot be given to your grandparents, including your grandmother.

According to Islamic guidelines, Zakat cannot be given to direct ascendants like parents or grandparents. It also cannot be given to descendants such as children or grandchildren, regardless of their financial status. This is because there is a financial connection between the person paying Zakat and these relatives.

However, the situation is different for voluntary charity (Sadaqah).

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) advised Abu Talhah al-Ansaari to give charity to his relatives. He said:

“I think that you should give it to your relatives” when Abu Talhah wanted to give away a date palm grove called Bayraha."

(Mishkat al-Masabih: 1945)

This guidance applies to voluntary charity, not Zakat.

When it comes to Zakat, if the relatives are not in the direct line of ascendants or descendants, such as aunts, uncles, or cousins, it is permissible. You can give them Zakat if they are in need.

This allows you to help your family while also fulfilling the obligation of Zakat. The same applies to your grandfather’s wife if she is not your biological grandmother, is poor, and has no other means of support.

If you have previously supported your maternal grandmother or paternal grandfather’s wife, make up for that. This applies if someone else was responsible for their financial support during that time.

And Allah knows best!

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WRITTEN BY

Atta-ur-Rehman

Atta-ur-Rehman, a specialist in Fiqh from Fazal-Jamiat-ul-Uloom-ul-Shariah, Jama'at ul-Umar Karachi, is an expert in Islamic jurisprudence. His expertise spans various aspects of Shariah, including Zakat, financial rulings, family laws, and ethical guidance in everyday life. With a deep understanding of Islamic principles, he provides a reliable insights into matters of faith, worship, and personal obligations.