# Interest Money Islam forbids interest (Riba), both receiving and paying it. Find out about interest in Islam and how to donate the funds in a shariah-compliant way here. Source: https://ghh.org.uk/interest-money/ Updated: 2026-05-18T12:50:53+00:00 --- ![Heart icon symbolizing love, compassion, and charitable giving](https://ghh.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/love1.svg) # Interest Money Islam forbids interest (Riba), both receiving and paying it ## What is Riba (interest) ↓ Islam prohibits the taking and giving of interest. This presents problems in non-Islamic economic systems that are built on interest based finance. But what should one do about the unsolicited interest accumulated in one’s own bank account? This moral question is one that confronts many of us. Since it is not permissible to utilise interest for one’s own benefit one should donate it to charity. Although there is no religious reward for doing so it at least disposes of the haram funds in a shariah-compliant way. ![Third image in a numbered sequence showing humanitarian aid or relief work](https://ghh.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/3.jpg) ![Sixth image in a numbered sequence showing humanitarian aid or relief work](https://ghh.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/6.jpg) ![Ramadan feeding program providing iftar meals to fasting individuals](https://ghh.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/feed-the-fasting-1.jpg) ![Secure payment icons showing donation methods for interest money contributions](https://ghh.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/payments-icons.svg) ## “O you who believe! Fear Allah and give up what remains [due to you] of interest, if you are true believers.” (2:278), Qur'an #### Frequently Asked Questions Confused about donating? Take a look at our frequently asked questions below. ###### Why isn’t Riba used for Sadaqah or Zakat? Riba is not considered pure in Islam and, therefore, cannot be used for Sadaqah or Zakat, which are core charitable acts. To maintain the integrity of these donations, Riba money is kept separate and allocated to other necessary but non-essential community projects. ###### What is Riba money used for? Riba money is used specifically for non-Sadaqah, non-Zakat projects, such as building toilets and roads. These projects are essential for improving public health and infrastructure but are not considered core religious obligations, making them appropriate for the ethical disposal of interest money. ###### Why does Global Helping Hands accept Riba? While Riba is prohibited in Islam, we accept it to ethically dispose of it. By channeling these funds into infrastructure projects like roads and toilets, we ensure that the money is used for the greater good without violating religious principles. ###### How is Riba money used transparently? We maintain complete transparency by providing detailed reports on how Riba money is allocated. Donors can see how their contributions are being used to fund specific infrastructure projects, ensuring accountability and ethical use of funds. ###### Can I choose how my Riba donation is used? While Riba donations are primarily allocated to non-Sadaqah, non-Zakat projects, we are open to discussions with donors about their preferences, as long as the use aligns with our ethical guidelines and the intended purpose of Riba funds. ###### Why focus on infrastructure like toilets and roads? Infrastructure projects like building toilets and roads are vital for improving the overall well-being of communities. These projects enhance public health, safety, and access to essential services, making them a responsible and impactful way to use Riba funds. ###### Are these projects important for communities? Yes, these projects are crucial for improving living conditions in the communities we serve. Proper sanitation and accessible roads significantly contribute to public health and economic development, which are essential for sustainable community growth. ###### What are alternatives to donating Riba money? If you prefer, you can donate directly to Sadaqah or Zakat projects, which fund direct aid and support for those in need. These donations go towards fulfilling religious obligations and making a direct impact on the lives of the most vulnerable. ## Ethical Disposal of Riba Funds At Global Helping Hands, we recognise the Islamic prohibition against earning interest (riba). Donors who accumulate interest in their accounts can contribute these funds to us, ensuring that the money is used ethically. These contributions are allocated to administrative costs or other non-essential activities, rather than direct aid. This approach ensures that the funds are handled in a way that aligns with Islamic principles, providing a transparent and ethical way for donors to dispose of riba while supporting our mission. 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