Accepting zakaat money to pay off one's debts

Q: I used to have a good business that closed down leaving me with R500 000 in debt. I have R200 000 in an investment that gives me R18 000 a year which I use to pay my childrens school fees. I have opened a small business again were I buy everything in cash, this business can only pay for my monthly living expenses. Can I receive zakaat to pay off my debts and what amount?

A: Yes.

You may receive zakaat to the extent of the value of your debt.

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

 

Answered by:

Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)