Charity Trust Under One’s Name

Question: 

Assalamu Alaikum Mufti, I am writing on behalf of my friend regarding the establishment of a charitable fund or trust. My friend is interested in setting up a fund that would provide donations to various Islamic institutions. His primary question is whether it is permissible to create this trust in his own name. ?

Answer:

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

As-Salāmu ʿAlaykum Wa-Raḥmatullāhi Wa-Barakātuh

We are pleased to hear of this commendable initiative to support Islamic institutions. It is encouraged to name the trust after yourself with the sincere intention that, in the future, those who see it may send ithāl al-thawāb (rewards) to you. You may also consider including your surname or family’s name so the entire family may benefit from the ongoing ithāl al-thawāb offered by others. However, this should be done purely for the sake of Allah and not for any form of ostentation (riyāʾ).

May Allah Taʿāla guide you throughout this process and allow it to benefit the Ummah for generations to come.

And Allah Taʿāla Knows Best.

Rukunuddin Bin Jahangir

Student  –Darul Iftaa

Milwaukee, WI, USA

Checked and Approved by

Mufti Muhammad Zakariyya Desai