Is it permissible to give zakat on wealth to a brother who works only in the morning, has three children—two of whom he sends to school and one to a private language school—and owns an apartment that he rents out for a good income?

It is permissible to give Zakat (definition) to a brother if his income does not cover his basic needs and the needs of his dependents. The fact that he owns rented property does not prevent this, as long as this income does not meet his needs. Giving Zakat to a relative is better. However, if his salary and apartment rent are sufficient for him, it is not permissible to give him Zakat, because he is not among the eligible recipients of Zakat. It is obligatory to verify his eligibility for Zakat before giving it to him.