In saving bank accounts interest is added automatically in the account. Can I use this amount to help poor people?

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

As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh.

In principal, it is not permissible for one to deposit money into an interest bearing account. One should immediately transfer the money into a non-interest bearing account if such an account is available. You may deposit your monies into Shariah Compliant cheque deposit accounts if such a facility is available. However, it is permissible to deposit one’s money into an interest bearing account if there is no other alternative.

The interest money accrued from the bank should be expended on the poor and needy without the intention of receiving any reward.[1]

And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best

Mufti Ismail Desai,
Darul Iftaa
Durban, South Africa

Checked and Approved by,
Mufti Ebrahim Desai.