How to Give Sadaqah on Behalf of Someone
07 Jul, 2026Share
To give Sadaqah on behalf of someone, set a clear intention before you donate and name the person in your heart, whether they are living or deceased. Choose a cause they would value, such as clean water, orphan support, or food aid. If donating online, use the dedication field or request a named certificate from the organisation.
Many Muslims in the UK want to honour parents, grandparents, teachers, or close friends through charity but feel unsure about the correct Islamic way. The process is simple. With sincerity and clear intention, giving Sadaqah on behalf of someone becomes a meaningful act of love and worship.
Can You Give Sadaqah On Behalf Of Someone Else In Islam
Yes, you can. The majority of Islamic scholars agree that voluntary charity can be given on behalf of another person, especially someone who has passed away. By the permission of Allah, the reward can reach them.
Across the four main schools of thought, scholars have long held that Sadaqah is one of the clearest deeds whose reward benefits others. Authentic narrations show companions asking the Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him about giving charity for deceased relatives, and he approved it. For a deeper understanding of ongoing charity, you may find Sadaqah Jariyah for deceased parents helpful, along with the difference between Sadaqah and Lillah to clarify voluntary giving.

What Islamic Scholars Say About Giving Sadaqah On Another Person's Behalf
Scholars from the Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, and Hanbali schools generally permit giving Sadaqah on behalf of others. The strongest agreement relates to giving charity for someone who has died, especially parents.
According to explanations found on Islam Question and Answer, ongoing charity such as building a well, distributing Qurans, or supporting beneficial projects can continue rewarding the deceased. Many scholars also allow asking Allah to grant the reward of voluntary charity to someone who is still alive. At the same time, each person is encouraged to continue doing their own good deeds.
Can Sadaqah Be Given On Behalf Of A Deceased Person In Islam
Yes, and many families find comfort in doing so. Giving Sadaqah in someone's memory is a practical way to continue honouring them.
The Prophet peace be upon him taught that a person's deeds usually stop after death except for three things: ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge, and a righteous child who makes dua. That is why many Muslims choose projects that provide lasting benefit.
For UK donors, this may include supporting clean water projects, sponsoring a child through orphan sponsorship programmes, or contributing to Sadaqah Jariyah initiatives. These are simple and practical ways to create ongoing reward.
Can UK Muslims Give Sadaqah On Behalf Of A Living Person Without Their Knowledge
Yes, voluntary Sadaqah can be given on behalf of someone who is alive, even if they do not know about it. You do not usually need their permission. What matters most is your sincere intention and asking Allah to grant them the reward.
However, telling them can sometimes strengthen relationships and encourage them to give too. The key is to avoid showing off. Sincerity is far more important than public attention.
What Types Of Sadaqah Can Be Given On Behalf Of Someone
You can give almost any form of voluntary charity on behalf of someone. It may be a one off donation for immediate relief or a long term project that counts as Sadaqah Jariyah.
- Water well projects
- Orphan sponsorship support
- Emergency cash aid
- Food parcel distribution
- Olive tree planting
- Quran distribution
- Medical aid funding
If the person cared about feeding the hungry, you might support food aid programmes. If they valued long term impact, explore ongoing Sadaqah Jariyah projects or plant an olive tree as a form of charity, which many scholars consider ongoing reward. You can also review examples of Sadaqah Jariyah for more ideas.
How To Set The Correct Intention When Giving Sadaqah On Behalf Of Someone
Intention, or niyyah, is made in the heart. There is no special script required. Before donating, pause and think clearly: O Allah, I am giving this charity on behalf of my mother, my friend, or my grandfather.
Ensure the money is halal, the cause is genuine, and your heart is free from showing off. If you are unsure who qualifies to receive voluntary charity, review guidance on who is eligible for Sadaqah in Islam to stay aligned with Islamic teachings.
Can Sadaqah Given On Behalf Of Someone Count As Sadaqah Jariyah
Yes, if the project provides ongoing benefit, such as a water well or education support, it can count as Sadaqah Jariyah. You receive reward for giving, and you ask Allah to grant reward to the person you named.
Sharing reward does not reduce your own. Many Muslims choose to give regular charity in their own name while also setting up Sadaqah Jariyah for loved ones.
How Much Sadaqah Should You Give On Behalf Of Someone
There is no fixed amount. Sadaqah is voluntary and can be small yet meaningful. The Prophet peace be upon him encouraged giving even half a date.
You may set up a small monthly donation or give on special dates such as anniversaries. If you are reviewing your finances, tools like the AI Zakat calculator can help you plan your giving responsibly.
How To Give Sadaqah On Behalf Of Someone Online Safely
Online giving should be simple and secure. Always check that the organisation explains clearly where funds go and how cases are verified.
For example, Donate Directly outlines how donations are verified and distributed, helping donors feel confident about their impact. Look for secure HTTPS websites and transparent reporting.
In the UK, you can confirm registered charities through the UK Charity Commission register. Many platforms allow you to include a dedication note so the Sadaqah is clearly given on behalf of your chosen person. Practical steps are also outlined in how to give Sadaqah online.
Common Questions About Giving Sadaqah On Behalf Of Someone
Can You Give Sadaqah On Behalf Of A Deceased Person?
Yes. Most scholars agree that voluntary charity given on behalf of a deceased person benefits them and is recommended.
Does The Person You Give Sadaqah On Behalf Of Need To Know?
No. Informing them is not required for voluntary Sadaqah. A sincere intention is sufficient.
How Do You Set The Correct Intention When Giving Sadaqah For Someone?
Make the intention in your heart before donating and ask Allah to grant the reward to that person by name.
Can Sadaqah Given On Behalf Of Someone Count As Sadaqah Jariyah?
Yes, if the charity creates ongoing benefit, such as a well or educational support, both you and the named person can hope for continuing reward.
How Much Sadaqah Should You Give On Behalf Of Someone?
There is no set amount. Give what you can afford consistently and sincerely. In the sight of Allah, sincerity carries great weight.
Giving Sadaqah on behalf of someone is a way to show love and gratitude. With clear intention and a sincere heart, it becomes a beautiful act of worship that strengthens bonds in this life and, by Allah's mercy, the next.