I am the imam of a mosque, and I am asked to certify the eligibility of certain individuals for charity, whether they are entitled to alms or not, and I do not know their circumstances.

Question:
May Allah reward you, Honorable Shaykh. This questioner says: I am the imam of a mosque, and I am often asked by charitable organizations to certify the eligibility of certain individuals. They ask if he is entitled to zakah or charity, and I do not know this person's circumstances. What is the ruling in such a case?

Answer:
It is not permissible for you to testify except about what you know. If you do not know his circumstances, say, "I do not know" or "I do not know him." Do not testify for anyone unless you know his circumstances and have verified them, whether you are the imam of a mosque or not. For what you do not know or are not aware of, say, "I do not know." Yes.