Which Family Members are Eligible to Receive Zakat?

Family members can receive Zakat if they are struggling financially.

The following are the family members that can receive Zakat if they are in need:

• Siblings (Brothers and Sisters)
• Uncles and Aunts
• Nephews and Nieces
• Cousins
• Stepmother and Step-siblings
• Stepchildren

The primary criterion for receiving Zakat is financial need, not the relationship you have with the person. However, family members, especially close ones, are often prioritized because of the inherent responsibility to care for them.

Islam encourages taking care of relatives in need first, and then helping others who are in difficult circumstances.

Note: Zakat cannot be given to children, grandchildren, parents, or grandparents.

And Allah knows best!

 Other Zakat Questions You May Have

• Is Supporting Stepchildren with Zakat Acceptable in Islam?
• 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?
• Can Zakat be Given to the Niece?