Is My Nephew Eligible to Receive Zakat?

Yes, your nephew can be eligible to receive Zakat if he is in need and no one is there to support him.

Zakat is both a charity and an obligation to support financially struggling family members.

When giving zakat to a nephew keep the following considerations:

• Financial Need:

If your nephew is struggling financially and unable to meet his essential needs—such as food, shelter, clothing, or healthcare—Zakat can be used to help him. Islam encourages helping the poor, including family members, especially when they lack resources.

• No Wealth or Income:

Zakat should go to individuals who do not possess enough wealth or income to support themselves. If your nephew has no savings or a steady source of income, he may qualify for Zakat, provided he does not have sufficient wealth to maintain his basic needs.

• Priority for Needy Family Members:

In Islam, providing for your family is highly encouraged. While it's important to assist others in the community, it is equally important to take care of the financial needs of your immediate family members, including nephews. If you are financially able, Zakat can be an appropriate way to support them.

Here also keep in mind that If you are in a position to support your nephew without using Zakat, this is also a good practice.

While you may not be required to pay Zakat to close family members whom you are already supporting, it's important to assess your financial situation. In cases where direct support is not possible, Zakat can be a way to help without placing additional financial strain on your budget.

And Allah knows best!

Other Zakat Questions You May Have

• Can I Give Zakat to My Mother?
• Can Zakat be Given to the Niece?
• Can Couples Combine Money to Pay Zakat?
• Can a Wife Give Zakat on Behalf of Her Husband?
• Is Zakat Permissible for a Divorced Sister?
• Can Zakat be Used to Pay the Debt of a Sibling?