Usage of Interest (Riba)
Question:
Besides giving the money of interest away to the poor and needy is there anything else that the money can be used for?
How do I know which persons is poor and needy, to give it to? Some examples will be highly appreciated…
Answer:
Wa Alaikum As salaam,
Some scholars have allowed its use for utilities, washrooms etc. You can give it to non-Muslim organizations, home for the age, orphanage etc – who are involved in works that are beneficial to others.
With respect to ‘who are poor and needy’, you will need to ask others from your community or other communities about them.
If you cannot find such people, then you can hand over the ‘interest monies’ to other reliable people or an Islamic organization who would then give it to the poor ones whom they know.