Is the imam financially liable if he incorrectly distributes charity based on a mistake regarding the recipient's poverty status?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Expiations
Primary text
If the distributor is the Imam and he errs regarding the recipient's poverty status (giving to a non-poor person), he is not liable for the distribution.
Supporting text
There are two differing opinions regarding whether the Imam is liable if he errs concerning the recipient's status of being free or Muslim, depending on the established views concerning his liability for an error in determining these fundamental requirements.