Is it permissible to give zakah to someone who claims to be poor?

Question : This questioner says: My question is about the alms given at the end of Ramadan. Some people approach those who distribute the alms and claim that they are poor. Should we give to them?

Answer : Praise be to Allah, Lord of the worlds, and I send prayers and peace upon our Prophet Muhammad, and upon his family and his Companions, and upon those who follow them in excellence until the Day of Judgment. If a person claims to be poor and the one distributing the alms does not know him, he should give to him and believe him. However, if he sees in him signs that indicate he is not among those who are obligated to receive it, he should inform him before giving and say, "If you wish, I will give to you, but there is no share in it for a rich person or a strong person who earns a living." If he says that he is not rich and not a strong person who earns a living, then give to him, and the responsibility is upon you. Yes.