Can zakat be given to a Relative who became poor but still owns a house?

In a Nutshell: A relative who falls below the poverty line can receive Zakat even if they own a house, but only if the house meets their basic needs for shelter. If the house is excessive or the proceeds from selling it could fulfill their needs, Zakat cannot be used to supplement an already sufficient living situation. Table of Contents Introduction Evidences Zakat and Owning a House FAQs (Zakat and Owning a House) Conclusion Introduction Zakat is one of the five pillars of Islam, a mandatory act of charity that purifies wealth and helps those in need. Muslims are obligated to distribute a specific portion of their wealth annually to designated categories of recipients. This answer addresses a common question: Can Zakat be given to a relative who has become poor but still owns a house? Evidences Quranic Verses on Zakat and Helping Relatives: Allah (SWT) commands us to perform Zakat and assist those in need, including relatives, in the Quran: "And establish prayer and give zakat and obey those in authority among you. And give to the near relatives their due rights..." (Quran 2:177) Hadiths on Distribution of Zakat and Compassion for the Needy: The Prophet (saw) emphasized compassion for the poor and fulfilling their basic needs: "Give charity without delay, for it extinguishes the fire of sin as water extinguishes fire." (Sahih al-Bukhari 1475) "The best charity is that given to a relative who is poor or struggling." (Sahih Muslim 2584) Scholarly Opinions on Zakat and Property Ownership: Prominent Islamic scholars have addressed the issue of Zakat and property ownership. The general consensus is that ownership of a basic dwelling does not disqualify someone from receiving Zakat if their other needs are not met. Giving Zakat to a Relative owning a House Determining whether a relative who owns a house qualifies for Zakat requires examining several factors: 1. Determining Need: Basic vs. Excessive Housing: The core principle of Zakat is to address essential needs. A house fulfills the basic need for shelter. However, the type of house plays a crucial role. If the house provides adequate living space and shelter from the elements, it does not disqualify the recipient from Zakat, even if they own it. Conversely, if the house is excessively large, luxurious or has features beyond basic needs, it might be considered a form of wealth that could potentially fulfill their needs. In such cases, Zakat would not be used to supplement an already sufficient living situation. This distinction is highlighted by Imam An-Nawawi (RA) who stated: If a poor person has a house that fulfills his needs, he is still eligible for Zakat. But if the house is extravagent and exceeds his basic needs, then he is not considered poor.(Al-Majmu', Vol. 5, Pg. 427) 2. The Purpose of Zakat: Fulfilling Essential Needs The primary purpose of Zakat is to alleviate poverty and hardship. This is emphasized in a Hadith narrated by Ibn 'Umar (RA): "Zakat is not for the rich, nor for those who are physically capable of work."(Sahih al-Bukhari 1474) The focus is on providing for those who cannot meet their basic necessities. If a relative's essential needs are not met despite owning a house, they remain eligible for Zakat. 3. Permissibility of Zakat for Maintenance vs. Building a House Zakat funds can be used for essential repairs and maintenance of a basic dwelling owned by the recipient. This ensures they retain adequate shelter. However, Zakat cannot be used to construct a new house if the existing one is uninhabitable. Funds for building a new house would fall under the category of providing capital, which is not a permissible use of Zakat. 4. Prioritizing Kin: Zakat and Maintaining Kinship Ties Islam emphasizes maintaining kinship ties and supporting relatives in need. "Give to the kinsman his due and to the poor and the wayfarer."(Quran 26:21) This verse highlights the importance of helping relatives alongside other Zakat recipients. Therefore, if a close relative qualifies for Zakat based on their needs and the type of housing they own, they are a deserving recipient and prioritizing them is encouraged. Conclusion The question of whether Zakat can be given to a relative who owns a house cannot be answered with a simple yes or no. It requires a nuanced understanding of the purpose of Zakat, the concept of poverty and the specific circumstances of the recipient. Key elements to consider include: The type of house: Is it basic and fulfilling the needs of shelter, or is it excessive and beyond essential requirements? Overall financial state: Even with the house, does the relative fall below the poverty line and struggle to meet essential needs for food, clothing, medical care, etc.? Potential for the house to address their needs: Could the house be sold or downsized to fulfill their financial needs? If the house provides basic shelter and the relative remains in need despite owning it, Zakat remains a valid form of assistance. Prioritizing close relatives who qualify for Zakat strengthens kinship ties and fulfills a fundamental principle of charity within Islam.