Using one's zakaat to pay for one's mother's treatment

Q: I am a 70 year old retired person and have no means of income besides some investments in Islamic bonds. I pay Zakat Alhamdollilah every year to deserving persons. My 100 year old mother fell seriously sick and had a Paralysis stroke and presently is in Coma stage. She is attended by two female nurses [12 hours duty each] and one Physiotherapist at my home besides her prescribed medications. I am aware that I am not allowed to give Zakat money to Parents. However, cost incurred by me on her treatment and Nursing / Physiotherapy is beyond my reach as I have a very limited pension type income. Can I pay her treatment, Nursing and Physiotherapy expenses from my Zakat fund?

A: Zakaat funds cannot be used as a salary.

And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best.

 

Answered by:

Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)