Paying Zakat al-Fitr on Behalf of Deceased Parents

Question: Is it permissible to pay Zakat al-Fitr on behalf of deceased parents?

Answer: Zakat al-Fitr is only obligatory on living individuals, not on the deceased. However, if the deceased had not paid Zakat al-Fitr during their lifetime and had made a will to pay it, then it is necessary to pay it from one-third of the estate.

If the deceased did not make a will, the heirs can collectively or individually pay Zakat al-Fitr, and it will be considered a virtuous act for the deceased. Otherwise, general charity and good deeds can be performed for the deceased parents’ benefit, and they will receive reward and blessings.

Reference:

• Al-Bahr Al-Raiq, Kitab Al-Zakat, Bab: Zakat Al-Fitr, J2, P271, Dar Al-Kitab Al-Islami
• Fatawa Shami, Kitab Al-Salat, Bab Qada’ Al-Fawa’id, J2, P72/73, Sa’id
• Kitab Al-Salat, Bab Salat Al-Janazah, Mabhab Fi Al-Qira’ah Lilmayyit Wa Ihdha’ Thawabih La, J 2, P243, Sa’id