Can you give charity if you are in debt?

The four schools agree on this.

Explanation

Debt is a right of another person, and charity is a favour you choose to do. When the two clash, the right comes first. The Prophet ﷺ said the best charity is from what is spare, and Imam al-Bukhari named a chapter to say that whoever gives charity while he or his family are in need, or while he owes a debt, should know the debt has more right to be paid. Delaying a debt you can pay is itself a wrong.

In practice:

• A debt that is due now, such as a loan the lender is asking for or an overdue bill: pay it before giving large sums in charity.
• A long-term debt being paid on schedule, such as a mortgage or student loan: you may give charity freely.
• Small daily charity, a meal, a few coins or a kind act, is fine in every case.
• Debts carrying interest that grows: clearing them quickly also protects you from more sin.

Abu Bakr once gave all he had, and the Prophet ﷺ accepted it, but that was from a man of exceptional trust in Allah whose family's needs were met. Most people are told to keep enough for their duties.

Zakat is different: it is not voluntary, and debts affect it in a set way; see do debts reduce your zakat. If debt is weighing on you, see the dua for debt relief. The four schools agree that a due debt comes before voluntary charity.

The evidence

Checked by our team. For a more accurate answer to your own situation, consult a scholar. Quran translation by Sahih International. Hadith Arabic from the standard editions of the six books and the Muwatta, with gradings as recorded there; the English is our own rendering. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.