Can Someone with Student Loan Debt Give Sadaqah, and Will It Count?
Question
I have student loans and I’m technically in debt, is it still okay for me to give sadaqah, and will it count?
Answer
Alhamdulillah, wassalatu wassalamu ala rasulillah, wa ala alihi wa sahbihi ajmain.
1. The Shari Context
Charity (sadaqah) is highly encouraged in Islam. Allah says:
“The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed of grain that grows seven ears…”
Surat al Baqarah 2:261
At the same time, fulfilling debts is a serious obligation. The Prophet ﷺ said:
“The soul of the believer is held back by his debt until it is paid.”
Sunan al Tirmidhi
Islam balances between generosity and financial responsibility.
2. Scholarly Discussion
The scholars agree that a person in debt must prioritize repayment of due debts, especially if creditors are demanding payment.
However, they also agree that giving voluntary charity is permissible even for someone in debt, provided:
- The charity does not harm his ability to repay.
- He does not neglect obligatory financial responsibilities.
If a person’s entire income is needed for living expenses and debt payments, then charity should be minimal and within capacity.
If the debt is long-term (such as structured student loans) and payments are being made on schedule, then voluntary charity remains permissible.
3. Application to Your Situation
Student loans are typically long-term structured debts with scheduled payments.
If:
- You are making your required payments,
- You are not defaulting,
- And giving charity will not cause financial harm or delay repayment,
Then you may give sadaqah, and it will count fully and be rewarded.
If giving charity would:
- Cause you to miss payments,
- Increase financial hardship,
- Or lead to borrowing more,
Then you should prioritize stabilizing your financial obligations.
Even small amounts of charity are rewarded. The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Protect yourselves from the Fire even with half a date.”
Sahih al Bukhari and Sahih Muslim
This shows that even minimal charity counts.
4. Relevant Usul Principle
لا ضرر ولا ضرار
There is no harming nor reciprocating harm
Charity should not lead to self-harm or financial collapse. Islam does not require voluntary charity at the expense of basic stability.
Final Ruling
Yes, you may give sadaqah while having student loan debt, as long as it does not harm your ability to meet your required payments and basic needs. Your charity will count and be rewarded according to your intention and capacity.
And Allah knows best.