What is the ruling on giving zakah to a grandmother?

Question:
This man says that in past years he used to give zakah to his grandmother. It appears to me that he is saying, "My grandmother, to my grandmother."

Answer:
We say that this does not suffice as zakah. It is not permissible for a child to give it to his father or grandfather, nor for a father to give it to his son or his son's son. It is not permissible for the ancestors or the descendants. You are obligated to provide for their maintenance if they are in need. Therefore, do not make zakah a substitute for your wealth. You are obligated to provide for your father and grandfather if they are in need and have no means of support. You are obligated to provide for your children if they are in need and have no means of support; provide for them from your wealth, not from the zakah. Yes, so you, O questioner, must pay out the zakah that you used to give to your grandmother. Give it to the poor and the needy. Yes.