Is there any authentic report regarding the prayer of need?

Question:
He also asks about the prayer of need. His Eminence the Shaykh: If you would be so kind, he requests guidance regarding it, and whether what has been reported about it is considered authentic? May Allah reward you with good.

Answer:
What is known in the hadiths is the prayer of repentance and the prayer for guidance in a decision (istikharah)—it is also called the prayer of need. The prayer of repentance, if one prays two units, raises his hands, and supplicates to his Lord repentant and remorseful for his sins, this is among the causes of forgiveness. Likewise, the prayer for guidance in a decision: if one intends to do something and it is unclear to him whether the benefit lies in proceeding with it, it is recommended (mustahabb) for him to pray two units, then supplicate after them, seeking guidance from Allah after them. He raises his hands and seeks guidance, saying: He names it by its name, such as marrying so-and-so, or buying such-and-such a commodity, or traveling to such-and-such a country. He specifies it and names it . He recites this supplication, or what indicates its meaning if he does not know this supplication. He asks his Lord that Allah may expand his chest for this matter if it is good, or turn him away from it if it is evil. This is called the prayer for guidance in a decision. One prays two units, then supplicates to his Lord after the closing salam. He raises his hands regarding the matter in which he is uncertain whether to do it or not, meaning: he is uncertain about the benefit. Buying a house where there is doubt, buying a car where there is hesitation, marrying so-and-so where there is hesitation, traveling to a country where there is hesitation—he seeks guidance. Yes.

The presenter : May Allah reward you with good, and may He do you good.