Written by: The Saudi Fatwa Committee
However, we advise against doing so, because circumstances can change.
"When the decree of Allah comes, the wealth will be distributed according to Shari’ah."
[Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen: Noor ‘Ala al-Darb, 11/247]
Is It Permissible to Distribute Wealth Among Heirs While Still Alive?
Islamic scholars have stated that if a person wishes to distribute their wealth among their heirs according to the Islamic rules of inheritance while still alive, it is permissible.However, we advise against doing so, because circumstances can change.
- A person may think that they will not need their wealth, but tomorrow they might face financial difficulties, requiring money that they have already distributed.
- Many times, people distribute their wealth while alive, only to later regret it when unexpected needs arise.
- Suppose a person divides their wealth among heirs, but ends up outliving some of them—what then?
- Who will inherit from whom? No one knows who will pass away first.
The Best Approach
It is best to retain one’s wealth until death. Once a person passes away, their wealth will naturally be distributed according to Islamic inheritance laws. "When the decree of Allah comes, the wealth will be distributed according to Shari’ah."[Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen: Noor ‘Ala al-Darb, 11/247]