Assalamualaikum. Can you please advise as to the rules regarding payment of zakaat when there is an outstanding debt of £10,000? Also would it be irresponsible to have another child with such a debt? May Allah reward you.
Respected Brother-in-Islam
Assalaamu Alaykum Wa Rahmatullaahi Wa Barakaatuhu
Kindly refer below.
It is not irresponsible to have a child despite being in debt. Each child comes with its own sustenance from Allah Ta’ala. We are merely a means for the child’s sustenance.
and Allah Ta’ala Knows Best
Mufti Ebrahim Desai
FATWA DEPT.
Q: I have read in a book that if there is an outstanding debt of R120,000 on a house worth R120,000 the entire amount is exempt from Zakaat. Is that correct? If that is the case, one will not pay Zakaat for many years.
A: The ruling contained in that book is incorrect. Only the amount that is due for one year will be regarded as a liability. (Shaami vol.3 pg.177; Lebanon)