Q: Can Zakah money be used to build wells? THe organization is 501(c) (name withheld)

A: Walaikumsalam,

I am very happy to hear from you. May Allah (SWT) make more people want to do good things like this, InshaAllah.

Zakah must be given to an eligible individual who takes full ownership of it. Therefore, it cannot be directly used for building mosques, boreholes, or similar projects.
However, if a person qualifies for zakah, they may receive the funds and choose to spend them on a borehole project if they wish. It is essential that no conditions are placed on the recipient regarding how they use the funds. Some zakah organizations follow this approach by first distributing the money to a needy person, who then voluntarily decides to contribute to a borehole. This method ensures the zakah remains valid while still supporting such initiatives.
Ultimately, the recipient must have full discretion and no pressure placed over how they use their zakah. They must be in no obligation to spend it on a particular cause.

If Allah (SWT) has blessed you with extra money, build the well as a Sadaqah Jariya. This would be greatly rewarding as well.

Allah Certainly Knows Best.