Giving the Whole Zakat to One Person

Short answer: It is permissible to give your entire zakat to a single deserving person from among the eight categories mentioned in Surah at-Tawbah (9:60). You are not required to split it among all eight categories. Details: The verse (9:60) specifies the categories eligible to receive zakat, but it does not obligate distribution across every category. The majority of scholars (jumhur), including the Permanent Committee for Islamic Research and Ifta, hold that the listing defines who may receive, not a mandatory division. The Prophet (ﷺ) himself gave zakat funds to a single debtor (Sahih Muslim 1044), showing that concentrating the payment on one eligible recipient is valid. Additionally, the principle that giving to one needy person fulfills the obligation, especially when that person is in dire need, is supported by the broader command to care for the poor (Sahih al-Bukhari 1428). Therefore, you may give all your zakat to one poor person if you wish, and it will be accepted. Evidence: 1. Surah At-Tawbah 9:60 – Lists eight categories but does not mandate splitting. 2. Sahih Muslim 1044 – The Prophet (ﷺ) gave the entire zakat to one debtor (Qabisa). 3. Fatawa al-Lajnah al-Da'imah (P3) – Confirms that dividing among all eight is not required; giving all to one deserving person is valid. Note: This is the evidence-based position. If your situation involves complex family or regional considerations, consult a reliable scholar.