Zakat to Siblings and Other Relatives

Short answer: Yes, you may give zakat to needy siblings, uncles, aunts, nephews, and in-laws, provided they are not among those you are legally obliged to support (such as parents or children). Doing so is not only permissible but is recommended because it combines the reward of charity with the reward of maintaining family ties. Details: The general principle from the Qur'an (Surah At-Tawbah 9:60) specifies eight categories of zakat recipients, which include the poor and needy. Relatives who fall under 'poor and needy' are eligible. The strongest evidence comes from the practice of the Prophet (peace be upon him). In Sahih al-Bukhari 1466, the Prophet ordered women to give charity from their ornaments, and Zainab, wife of Abdullah, used to give to her husband and orphans under her care—showing that charity to close relatives is permitted. Furthermore, in Sahih al-Bukhari 1461, the Prophet stated that giving charity to a relative earns a double reward: one for charity and one for upholding kinship. The Permanent Committee and Shaykh al-Uthaymin (as cited in the provided evidence) confirm that giving zakat to needy relatives whom you are not obliged to support is better than giving to strangers. For in-laws, they are not blood relatives but are still needy; there is no prohibition, and they fall under the general category of the poor. However, one should not give zakat to those whom one is already obligated to maintain (e.g., parents, children, spouse), as their maintenance is already a duty (see Sahih al-Bukhari 1428). Evidence: 1. Sahih al-Bukhari 1466: The Prophet (peace be upon him) instructed women to give charity, and Zainab used to support her husband and orphans—showing permissibility of charity to close relatives. 2. Fatawa al-Lajnah al-Da'imah: Giving zakat to needy relatives you are not obliged to maintain is permissible and better, earning double reward. 3. Sahih al-Bukhari 1461: The Prophet said giving charity to a relative earns two rewards: charity and kinship. 4. Sahih al-Bukhari 1428: The Prophet said to start with dependents, indicating that non-dependent relatives are eligible. Disclaimer: This is a general ruling. For complex family situations or specific obligations, please consult a qualified scholar.