CAIR-CA’S GUIDELINES FOR ZAKAT ALLOCATIONS
Several scholars, including Sheikh Ahmad Kutty and Dr. Muzammil Siddiqi, agree that all of CAIR-CA’s work is zakat-eligible because it collectively advances the services that are provided to the community, fi Sabilillah. However, there are other scholars with a more restrictive definition of zakat eligibility. To accommodate the vast range of religious opinions on this matter, CAIR-CA adheres to specific guidelines to ensure the strictest allocation of zakat funds.
Donors may designate their zakat funds to be allocated towards a specific area of work (e.g., Civic Engagement, Legal Services, and Youth Empowerment). Where a donor does not restrict their zakat donation, CAIR-CA will allocate those funds to programs and services which directly help protect the rights of Muslims. They will be allocated as follows:
- Funds will be allocated to the Legal Department (Civil Rights & Immigration) and the Policy, Advocacy, Government Relations work. This consists of all expenses related to the departments (i.e., program costs, communications, salaries, benefits, management, etc.)
- Justification:
- Legal work provides direct services and programs to the community, especially for those with no financial means to receive it otherwise.
- Policy, Advocacy, Government Relations work leads to the creation of laws that protect the rights of Muslims to freely practice their religion in America.
- Justification:
- Funds will not be allocated toward:
- Fundraising expenses (i.e. banquets, direct mail, etc.)
- Administrative expenses (i.e. office rent, utilities, etc.)
- Funds received between January 1st to December 31st will be allocated in the same year.