Can Zakat Be Given to Help Settle Debts?

Yes, Zakat can be used to help someone in debt, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. 

Islamic scholars have outlined specific conditions for Zakat recipients, including those struggling with financial burdens.

The following are the criteria for eligibility for Zakat as a debtor:

Zakat can be given to an individual burdened with debt if they meet the following conditions:

• Liabilities Exceed Assets: 

According to the Hanafi school of thought, a person qualifies for Zakat if their debts surpass their Zakatable and surplus assets.

• Inability to Cover Basic Needs:

Other Islamic scholars assess eligibility based on the Kifayah principle. This means the individual must prove that their financial obligations prevent them from affording essential living expenses. If the debt significantly impacts their ability to survive, they may be eligible for Zakat.

• Debt Must Be Islamically Lawful:

The Maliki, Shafi’i, and Hanbali schools of thought emphasize that the debt must not have been incurred for sinful activities. If a person’s debt stems from gambling, interest-based loans, or other prohibited activities, they are not eligible for Zakat. Unless they have sincerely repented.

Hence, if someone is struggling with debt and meets the Islamic criteria for Zakat, they can receive financial assistance through it. However, it is essential to ensure that the debt is legitimate and not related to prohibited activities unless the person has sought repentance.

It's important to understand that if someone neglects their Zakat payments, it also accumulates as a debt that needs to be settled promptly.

In the same spirit, many people choose to give their Zakat to support those in need, especially vulnerable children. 

Pakistan Sweet Home allows individuals to fulfill this sacred duty with ease through orphanage donation online, offering a trusted and impactful way to uplift orphaned lives.

And Allah knows best!

 Other Zakat Questions You May Have

• Can Zakat be Given to Debtors Who Afford Holidays?
• Can Zakat Be Given to Settle a Parent’s Debt?
• Can Zakat Be Given to Someone Who Can Work?
• Can Zakat be Used to Build a Water Well?
• Is It Allowed to Pay All My Zakat to a Single Person?
• Can I Divide My Zakat Among Multiple Recipients?