Is it permissible to give zakah to someone who claims to be among those entitled to it?

The questioner : We conclude this session, Honorable Shaykh, with a question from one of the brothers. He says: Some people approach those who carry zakah and claim to be poor. Do we accept their claim and give them the zakah?

The Shaykh : If a person asks for zakah from the one who owes it or from the one appointed to distribute it, and signs of ineligibility appear on him, such as being strong and robust, he is given from it after being advised, and it is told to him that it is not lawful for a rich person or a strong person who earns a living. However, if we know that this man is not among those entitled to it, but, may Allah protect us, he is afflicted with the habit of asking, then we do not give to him, even if he claims to be. If we give to the questioner in matters of fiqh the first time, and we are not certain that he is not among those entitled to zakah, and then it becomes clear afterwards that he is not among those entitled to it, then the zakah is valid, by the saying of Allah, Blessed and Exalted is He: . But if you know poor people, then giving them the zakah is better than giving to these questioners. May Allah reward you, Honorable Shaykh, and may Allah bless you and your knowledge, and benefit the Muslims through you.