Is it permissible to give zakat to a married sister who works, as does her husband, but she is in debt?
It is permissible to give zakat to a sister to pay off her debt if she is unable to pay and her debt is due (not deferred), as she would then be considered among those in debt (al-ghaarimeen). However, if her debt is deferred, scholars have differed on the permissibility of giving her zakat. The more correct view according to al-Nawawi is that it is not permissible because she is not in immediate need of it. The prohibition is further emphasized if she is able to pay from her salary.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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