Can I pay Zakat al-Fitr to poor individuals who do not observe religious practices, such as fasting and praying?
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1 Answer
Peace be upon you and God's mercy and blessings.
Grand Ayatollah Sayyid Sistani (may God protect him):
It is required that the recipient does not spend it on unlawful matters, so it should not be given to someone who will do so. It is also strongly recommended to ensure that giving it to them does not aid in sin or encourage wrongdoing, even if they do not spend it on unlawful matters. Additionally, it is strongly recommended not to give it to someone who neglects prayer, drinks alcohol, or openly engages in sinful behavior.
Source: Minhaj al-Salihin - Vol. 1 - Characteristics of the Deserving - Article 1145
Grand Ayatollah Sayyid Khamenei (may God protect him):
It is permissible to pay Zakat al-Fitr to a just believer as well as to a non-just believer, provided they do not spend it on sin. It is strongly recommended not to give it to someone who openly commits major sins or drinks alcohol.
Source: Special Inquiry
May you be successful in all good deeds.