Q: Can Zakaat be given to one’s paternal uncle (father’s brother) if he is eligible to receive Zakaat?
A:Zakaat cannot be given to one’s ascendants, descendants and spouse. Since the paternal uncle is not a direct descendant he may be given Zakaat if he is eligible. In fact, it is more virtuous to give Zakaat to one’s relatives. (Al Fatawaa Al Hindiyyah 1/190)
And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best
Shafiq Jakhura (Mufti) and M Mangera (Mufti)
Fatwa Dept.