Allah has specified 8 categories of people who are eligible to receive Zakat in the Quran (Surah At-Tawbah 9:60)
"Zakah expenditures are only for the poor and for the needy and for those employed to collect [zakah] and for bringing hearts together [for Islam] and for freeing captives [or slaves] and for those in debt and for the cause of Allah and for the [stranded] traveler - an obligation [imposed] by Allah. And Allah is Knowing and Wise."
— Quran 9:60
The Poor
Those who have very little or no wealth and cannot meet their basic needs like food, clothing, and shelter.
The Needy
Those who have some income but it's not enough to cover their basic necessities. They may have shelter but struggle to afford food.
Zakat Collectors
Those appointed to collect, manage, and distribute Zakat. At Qurbani Canada, we have a 100% Zakat policy - we don't take from Zakat funds.
New Muslims & Friends of Islam
Those who have recently embraced Islam or those whose hearts are inclined towards Islam. Zakat helps support their transition.
Freeing Captives
Historically used to free slaves. Today, this includes helping free those in bonded labor, human trafficking victims, or those unjustly imprisoned.
Those in Debt
Those who are in debt and cannot repay it. The debt must have been incurred for permissible reasons and they genuinely cannot repay.
In the Cause of Allah
Those striving in the path of Allah. This includes supporting Islamic education, dawah activities, and defending the faith.
The Stranded Traveler
A traveler who is stranded and doesn't have enough resources to return home, even if they are wealthy in their homeland.
Those who possess wealth above the Nisab threshold
Parents, grandparents, children, grandchildren, and spouse
The Banu Hashim and Banu Muttalib families
Zakat is specifically for Muslims (Sadaqah can be given to anyone)
Your Zakat will be distributed to eligible recipients across 50+ countries.
