Double Reward Guide

Zakat to Relatives & Family

A guide on how to support your family through Zakat while adhering to Shariah rules regarding eligibility.

Updated for 2025

The Double Reward

"Charity given to a poor person is charity, but charity given to a relative is two things: charity and upholding family ties (Silah-Rahmi)."

— Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) [Al-Tirmidhi]

Eligible Relatives (Yes)

  • Brothers and Sisters (Siblings)
  • Nephews and Nieces
  • Uncles and Aunts (Paternal & Maternal)
  • Cousins
  • Father-in-law / Mother-in-law
  • Step-parents (if not legally adopted as lineage)
Condition: They must be poor/needy (eligible for Zakat) and not dependent on you for mandatory support.

Non-Eligible Relatives (No)

  • Parents & Grandparents (Ascendants)
  • Children & Grandchildren (Descendants)
  • Husband or Wife (Spouse)
Reason: You are already religiously obligated to financially support your parents, children, and spouse. Giving Zakat to them is like giving it to yourself.

Etiquette of Giving

When giving Zakat to relatives, it is often better NOT to mention that it is Zakat, especially if they might feel embarrassed. You can simply give it as a 'gift' or 'help', while intending it as Zakat in your heart.

"Protecting the dignity of your relative is more important than announcing your charity. Allah knows your intention."

Are they actually 'Poor'?

Being a relative doesn't automatically make them eligible. They must fit into one of the 8 categories of Masarif-e-Zakat (e.g., Poor, Needy, in Debt).

Check Eligibility Criteria

Support Your Family

Calculate exactly how much Zakat you owe, then distribute it among your needy relatives first.

Calculate ZakatRead General Rules

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.Can a wife give Zakat to her poor husband?

Yes. The majority of scholars (including Imam Shafi'i and Abu Yusuf) allow this, as the wife is not financially obligated to support the husband.

Q.Can I give Zakat to my brother who is in debt?

Yes, absolutely. Paying off the debt of a sibling is an excellent use of Zakat.

Q.My daughter is married but poor. Can I give her Zakat?

Yes. Once she is married, her financial responsibility lies with her husband. If they are poor, her father can give her Zakat.