Islam presents three legitimate ways for distributing Zakat. First, entrusting it to the ruler or governing authority. This is applicable only in countries governed by Islamic rule. Second, distributing it oneself. Third, entrusting it to a mature and trustworthy individual. Distribution of Zakat in any manner other than these three is not valid.

We often come across some organizations operating under the name of Zakat Committees. Their method involves collecting Zakat shares from the wealthy and distributing them. This is not an Islamic approach, nor is it a method approved by Islam. Merely entrusting Zakat to such organizations does not absolve one of the religious obligation. Furthermore, even in Islamic countries, it is not permissible for rulers to demand Zakat on personal assets such as Fitr Zakat, gold, silver, currency, or business goods.

Even when distributing Zakat through any of the three legitimate methods, the giver must make the niyyah (intention) that it is their Zakat. If the owner distributes it directly, the niyyah should be made at the time of distribution. If the Zakat is being entrusted to a ruler or a trustworthy person, the niyyah must be made at the moment of entrustment.

In the case of minors and the mentally ill, their guardians or caretakers are responsible for giving Zakat on their behalf. Hence, it is these guardians who must make the niyyah.

If someone assigns another person to distribute Zakat on their behalf, they must ensure that it reaches the rightful recipients completely. Otherwise, the obligatory duty of Zakat remains unfulfilled.

If the owner of the wealth, or someone appointed by them, is distributing the Zakat, then it must be given to at least three individuals from each eligible category. Self-distribution is better than assigning someone else, as it ensures that Zakat has indeed reached the rightful beneficiaries.

The Eligible Recipients of Zakat

Zakat can only be given to people belonging to eight specific categories. However, in non-Islamic countries like India, only five of these categories are typically present. Categories such as Zakat officers, contractual slaves, and fighters in the cause of Islam are not usually found in places where Islamic governance does not exist.

1. The Extremely Poor (Fuqara):Those whose income is less than half of their basic daily needs. For example, if someone needs 100 rupees a day but earns less than 50, they are considered extremely poor.
2. The Poor (Masakeen):Those who earn somewhat close to their daily requirements, such as someone needing 100 rupees a day but earning around 80. Even if these groups receive support from charitable organizations, they are still considered eligible for Zakat.
3. Zakat Administrators: Officials appointed by Islamic rulers in countries under Islamic rule to manage Zakat collection and distribution. This category does not apply in countries without Islamic governance.
4. New Converts to Islam: It is invalid to give Zakat to non-Muslims. However, a person who has embraced Islam becomes eligible for Zakat even if they are wealthy.
5. Debtors in Distress: Those who are in debt due to resolving disputes, constructing religious institutions, or supporting their family and dependents. If someone has taken a loan for such permissible reasons, they are eligible for Zakat. However, if the debt was incurred for impermissible purposes, they are not considered rightful recipients of Zakat.
6. Fighters in the Path of Allah: In countries with Islamic governance, this refers to those actively engaged in a sacred struggle for the sake of Allah.
7. Stranded Travelers: If a traveler lacks the means to return home, including travel expenses and food, they are eligible for Zakat, even if they are wealthy in their home country.
8. Slaves Seeking Freedom: Slaves who have signed a contract with their masters to gain freedom by paying an agreed sum. Since slavery no longer exists in today’s world, this category has become obsolete.