Q 1: It is customary in some areas of Bihar in India for people to collect the Zakah (obligatory charity) due on money, Sadaqah (voluntary charity), Zakat-ul-Fitr (obligatory charity paid before the Festival of Breaking the Fast), and the hide of Ud-hiyahs (sacrificial animals offered by non-pilgrims) in one place to be mixed together and then sold. After that, a certain sum is given to some Islamic schools in the country and the rest of the amount is given to other primary, preparatory, and secondary schools where the children of those who pay Zakah and Sadaqah study. It should be noted that these schools and colleges do not provide students with meals but the Zakah pays the salaries of teachers and purchases land among other such things.1- Is it permissible to pay Zakat-ul-Fitr (obligatory charity paid before the Festival of Breaking the Fast) to the above mentioned committee taking into consideration that they are not paid to the poor and Miskins (the needy) at the Shar`y (Islamically lawful) due time?2. Is it permissible to pay Zakah and Sadaqah to schools and institutes in which the children of those who pay Zakah study because the giver of Sadaqah in this (Part No. 8; Page No. 330) case is actually benefitting from his paid Sadaqah?

A: The Zakah due on money and Zakat-ul-Fitr must be paid to the poor and the needy and to the other legal recipients specified by Allah (Exalted be He). It is impermissible to pay this money to charitable projects such as schools and Masjids (mosques). This is especially true with regard to Zakat-ul-Fitr that must be paid to the poor of the town where the payer resides during the period from sunset of the night preceding `Eid-ul-Fitr (the Festival of Breaking the Fast) until the payer goes out for Salat-ul-`Eid (the Festival Prayer). It is also permissible to pay it one or two days in advance. However, it is impermissible to delay the payment of Zakah beyond this time. The matter is flexible for other kinds of Sadaqah, and they may be given to the poor or to charitable projects such as schools, Masjids and charitable associations. However, if the giver specifies a certain channel for spending, it must be given to it.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.