Paying Zakah to one's niece

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Fatwa no. 11158 A: My niece had polio when she was a child, which left her completely disabled in her right leg. She has learned how to sew (Part No. 10; Page No. 13) and does it at home and earns an adequate income that she can live on, when her health permits. Her father is alive and earns an average income. She has grown-up siblings, who all look after themselves. This girl is not married yet - who would offer marriage to a disabled girl? Is it permissible for me to give her the Zakah on my wealth to buy some gold jewelry or a piece of land etc., to help her with the trials of this world and her problems? May Allah reward you with the best!

A: It is not permissible for you to give Zakah to this girl as she is able to earn an income from sewing. Also, as her father earns an average income, it is her father's duty to give her the support she needs.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.