Question
Imam of our masjid told me that I can not send Zakat to home country if there are poor needy people here in USA, specially in our own community. On the other hand my family back in Pakistan is insisting me to send zakat money to poor and needy people of Pakistan, specially in our locality in Pakistan. I am confused now, where to spend zakat money?
Answer
Muhtaram / Muhtaramah
In the Name of Allāh, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāh wa-barakātuh.
It is permissible to send your Zakaat overseas, especially if your own relatives are deserving of Zakaat. If your relatives are not deserving of Zakaat,then too you may send your Zakaat to if there is a greater need there for the funds. (Ahsanul Fataawa Vol.4 Page 259; Shaami chapter on Zakaat Vol.2).
And Allah knows best
Wassalam
Darul Iftaa, Madrassah In’aamiyyah
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