SadiaZakat is not only an act of charity; it is a fundamental pillar of Islam and a duty for Muslims to support the less fortunate. It purifies wealth and ensures that financial assistance reaches those who need it most. It also plays a vital role in society by redistributing wealth, offering financial relief, and promoting economic balance. However, not everyone qualifies to receive Zakat. Islam highlights specific categories of people who are eligible to receive Zakat. They are mentioned in the Quran as:
“Zakat expenditures are only for the poor and the needy, for those employed to administer it, for those whose hearts are attracted ˹to the faith˺, for ˹freeing˺ slaves, for those in debt, for Allah’s cause, and for ˹needy˺ travellers. ˹This is˺ an obligation from Allah. And Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise.” – Surah At-Tawbah (9:60)
The Eight Categories of Zakat Recipients
According to the Quran, there are eight groups of people who qualify for Zakat. Let’s explore these categories to better understand who is eligible and why.
1. The Poor (Al-Fuqara)
The first and most deserving recipients of Zakat are those living in poverty. These are the individuals who struggle to meet their basic needs, such as food, clothing, and shelter. With little to no source of income, their earnings may not be enough to support themselves or their families. In many cases, they completely depend on others for survival.
Zakat is meant to ease their hardships by providing financial support to cover their daily essentials. By helping the poor, we can support them in finding stability and give them the opportunity to escape extreme poverty. United Muslims ensures that your Zakat reaches those who need it most, bringing hope and relief to their lives.
2. The Needy (Al-Masakin)
The needy often struggle to make ends meet despite having some form of income or limited resources. While they may be able to afford daily meals, they often face difficulty paying for rent, medical bills, or essential education costs. Many work hard to support themselves, but unexpected circumstances or insufficient income leave them vulnerable.
United Muslims is dedicated to helping the needy, ensuring they don’t fall into severe poverty. Your Zakat serves as a means to ease their burden, allowing them to meet basic necessities without the constant pressure of financial strain.
3. Zakat Administrators (Al-‘Amilina ‘Alayha)
Zakat is not only about giving; it also needs to be managed, collected, and distributed properly to ensure it reaches the rightful recipients. Those who take on the responsibility of collecting, recording, and distributing Zakat fall under this category.
We play an essential role in maintaining a smooth system of Zakat and ensuring transparency in the distribution process. Our dedicated administrators work tirelessly to ensure the funds are used in the most effective and fair way possible. They do this while adhering to our 100% donation policy, where your entire donation goes directly to the cause.
4. Those Whose Hearts Are to Be Reconciled (Al-Mu’allafatu Qulubuhum)
Islam encourages kindness and support for those who are new to the faith as well as those whose efforts benefit the Muslim community. This category includes individuals who have recently embraced Islam and may need financial assistance to adjust to their new life. It also extends to those who are inclined toward Islam but may need help in becoming part of the Muslim community.
United Muslims is committed to promoting harmony by offering Zakat to individuals whose influence can strengthen the ummah, whether through advocacy, peace-building, or bridging gaps between communities. This helps build unity and encourages a welcoming atmosphere for those who seek to grow in faith.
5. People in Debt (Al-Gharimin)
Debt is a heavy burden that can trap individuals in a cycle of financial difficulty. Those who find themselves in debt due to unavoidable circumstances, such as medical emergencies, business failures, or family responsibilities, are eligible to receive Zakat. It is important to note that this applies only to ethical debts, which means debts taken for necessary and lawful purposes, not for excessive or unnecessary spending.
We allocate Zakat to help individuals in clearing their debts, allowing them to regain financial independence and move forward with stability. We reduce the burden of debt and bring peace of mind to those facing financial struggles by helping them overcome their liabilities.
Empower the needy, ease financial burdens, and create lasting positive change for those in need!
6. Those Striving in the Path of Allah (Fi Sabilillah)
This category covers individuals engaged in efforts that serve the cause of Islam and the well-being of the Muslim community. It includes scholars, educators, and humanitarian workers who dedicate their lives to supporting the Muslim ummah and spreading the values of Islam.
United Muslims ensures that Zakat is directed towards causes that align with the will of Allah, including Islamic education, humanitarian aid, and community projects. We use the Zakat to support ongoing efforts that promote justice, knowledge, and the welfare of humanity.
7. Stranded Travellers (Ibnus-Sabil)
Those who are stranded while travelling and lack financial resources are also eligible for Zakat. This applies to individuals on long journeys who have run out of provisions or money and have no means of returning home. Today, this can include people who are away from home for work, study, or other lawful reasons and have encountered unexpected financial difficulties.
We are dedicated to supporting stranded travellers, helping them return home safely or continue their journey without unnecessary hardship. Your Zakat can make a real difference by offering them the security they need and preventing them from being left in vulnerable circumstances.
8. The Freeing of Captives (Ar-Riqab)
Zakat has always been essential in providing financial support to those seeking to buy their freedom from slavery. It has been a powerful means for individuals to regain their independence. Although traditional slavery may no longer exist, this category still applies to modern-day scenarios where individuals are trapped in unjust captivity or oppressive conditions. This includes victims of human trafficking, prisoners of conscience who have been wrongfully detained, and individuals held under forced labour systems.
United Muslims allocates Zakat to support the legal battles and rehabilitation of these individuals. We help them regain their freedom and rebuild their lives.
Make Your Zakat Count
It is important to understand who the rightful recipients of Zakat are in order to ensure that your donation has a meaningful impact. It is a duty that should be fulfilled with sincerity and responsibility. If you are unsure about how much Zakat to give, the Zakat Calculator from United Muslims can help you determine the exact amount. This assures that your donation is both accurate and beneficial.
Zakat is not just about giving wealth; it is about empowering communities and creating a society where no one is left behind. By fulfilling this obligation with a pure heart, we can bring hope and relief to those who need it most. This strengthens the bonds of brotherhood and compassion in our societies. At United Muslims, we make sure that your Zakat donations are distributed according to Islamic guidelines.
Ready to make a difference? Donate your Zakat today and be a part of something truly transformative.
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Fulfil your obligation today – give Zakat and be a source of hope for those in need!
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