Question

My uncle lives in the US. He does not have any considerable savings (total assets are below nisab) and his work only allows him to live paycheck to paycheck (he drives a taxi). He is healthy, physically fit and has never asked anyone for money before.

Given the above, is he eligible to receive zakat?

Answer

In the Name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful.

In principle, an individual is deemed eligible to receive zakāt if they possess neither monetary assets nor items (excluding those essential for personal need) amounting to or exceeding the nisāb threshold. Essential personal use items include, but are not limited to, residence, vehicle, attire, cellular device, computer, appliances, furniture, and similar items. Items of entertainment, such as television sets, are not considered essential items. 

If your uncle fulfills these criteria, it will be permissible for you to give him your zakāt .

Mufti Ehzaz Ajmeri