Permissibility of Appointing an Agent for Zakat Distribution

Authored by: Fatwas of the Saudi Fatwa Committee

It is permissible for a person to appoint an agent or representative to distribute their zakat or fitrana, even if there is no specific reason preventing the individual from doing it themselves.

1. Appointing for Zakat Distribution:
   
   • A person can say: "Here is the zakat money; please distribute it among those you deem deserving."
   • This delegation is valid and acceptable in Islamic law.
2. Appointing for Fitrana or Other Obligations:
   
   • Similarly, a person can appoint someone to handle fitrana or other obligations, such as feeding ten needy individuals as kafarah for an oath.
3. Flexibility in Distribution:
   
   • The agent can be given the money and instructed to purchase items (e.g., food) and distribute them among the needy.
   • This method is also permissible and does not violate any Islamic principles.

This ruling highlights the flexibility and ease provided in fulfilling obligatory charitable acts through valid representation.

[Reference: Ibn Uthaymeen, Liqaa Al-Bab Al-Maftuh, Vol. 7, Page 118]