Should Zakat al-Mal be given directly to the debtors or to the creditor?

It is permissible to give Zakat to the debtor himself or directly to his creditors, and the details depend on the debtor's situation. If the debtor is trustworthy and keen on repaying his debt, it is preferable to give him the Zakat so that he may handle the payment himself. However, if there is a fear that he might misuse the money, it must be paid directly to the creditor. The debtor is eligible for Zakat if his debt resulted from an inability to meet expenses, or for reconciling people, or for basic needs such as building a house or buying clothes. As for debts aimed at wealth accumulation or luxury, they are not eligible for Zakat.