What is meant by the charities from which administrative expenses of associations are taken (such as rent for the headquarters and employee salaries), especially if they are directed to a general cause like medical treatment or equipping brides, or if they are unrestricted charities, and what if these charities are insufficient?

It is impermissible for charitable organizations to take from zakat or obligatory charities, such as expiations (kaffarat) and zakat al-fitr, unless they are designated by the ولي الأمر (ruler/authority). Similarly, it is not permissible for them to take from voluntary charities designated for treating the sick or marrying off those in need, because the donors have specified their use.

It is permissible for organizations to take from voluntary charities designated for their own operational costs, or from general voluntary charities from which donors have permitted a portion to be deducted, provided the donors are aware of this. Otherwise, it is not permissible for them to deduct anything.

If an organization cannot find a legitimate source of funding and the permissible charities are insufficient, it must close down.