What is the proper distribution amount from Zakat funds to categories with needs?
Chapter on Zakat on Sheep
Al-Mughni
Book of Zakat
Primary text
Each category receiving Zakat distribution must be given only what is necessary to fulfill their need, without any excess. Specifically, the debtor (ghārim) and the contracts slave (mukātab) are each given enough to settle their debt, regardless of how large it may be. The wayfarer (ibn as-sabīl) is given what suffices to reach their homeland, the warrior (ghāzī) is provided with what is sufficient for their campaign, and the administrator (ʿāmil) receives compensation equivalent to their wage. Concerning the wayfarer, Ahmad stated that any amount given from Zakat funds for their journey is permissible, provided it does not exceed the necessary requirement, as the purpose of the distribution is solely to meet that need.