Am I Required to Pay Zakat for My Divorced Sister Who is Living With Me?

Yes, if your divorced sister is living with you and does not possess wealth or savings that reach the nisab threshold, she is eligible to receive Zakat.

The nisab is the minimum amount of wealth a person must have before Zakat becomes obligatory. If her deposits in the bank or her total assets do not meet this Zakat nisab, she qualifies as a recipient of Zakat.

In this case, you may give Zakat money to her. However, it is essential to ensure that your intention is specifically for Zakat when giving her this financial support. Intention is a crucial condition in Zakat; without it, the payment does not fulfill the obligation of Zakat.

While making the intention internally, there is no need to inform her that the money is from Zakat. This approach preserves her dignity and avoids making her feel embarrassed or uncomfortable about receiving Zakat.

It is also worth noting that you cannot use Zakat money for regular household expenses. This includes costs you already cover for her while she is living with you, such as food, clothing, or shelter. These are considered acts of kindness and familial support, not Zakat payments.

Instead, Zakat money should be given to her as a separate amount, enabling her to meet her personal needs or relieve her of financial burdens.

If your divorced sister’s financial situation qualifies her as a recipient, you can give Zakat to her. While doing so, ensure your intention is clear and avoid explicitly stating the source of the funds. This way, you fulfill your religious obligation while helping your sister maintain her self-respect.

And Allah knows best!