Q: I have previously given an elderly person zakaat money to pay off his son’s debt, without the son knowing. The zakaat though was was given with the intention for the son as he is zakaat liable. From my understanding tamleek (taking ownership) did not take place, is my zakaat valid, or do I have to take out the amount again?
A: Apparently it seems that this adult child has incurred some debts and the father is settling it without his consent. The zakaat is only valid with the adult son’s consent. Hence, settle it with his consent.
And Allah Ta’ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
Answered by:
Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)