💰 Family finances · #45

May one hide income or give false information to qualify for aid or zakat?

No; it is fraud that takes the right of those in greater need, and money obtained that way is not lawful.
Allah forbids consuming one another's wealth unjustly (al-Baqarah 2:188), and the Prophet ﷺ said that whoever begs from people to increase his wealth is really asking for live coals (Sahih Muslim, Kitab az-Zakah). This includes declaring oneself divorced or a single mother when one is not, hiding a spouse's income, or claiming aid from two places for the same need. Besides being a sin, it can be an offence in law. If you are truly struggling, state your real situation; many zakat and welfare schemes take into account debts, dependants and medical costs. If you have done this in the past, repent and repay, or talk to the agency concerned. See Zakat & welfare.

Sources

Surah al-Baqarah 2:188Sahih Muslim, Kitab az-ZakahSurah an-Nisa' 4:29

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This answer is general reference, not a fatwa. For your situation, consult the religious affairs office, a Syarie lawyer or your state Syariah Court.

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