There is nothing wrong in reciting the Qur’an and sending its reward for a dead person and to make istighfar (asking Allah’s forgiveness) for him or her. It is something good and commendable to make much istighfar for a dead relative or friend so that Almighty Allah forgives him or her.
The eminent Muslim scholar and renowned Da`iyah, Sheikh `AbdelKhaliqHasan Ash-Shareef, states: “ImamIbn Taymiyahis of the opinion that it is permissible to recite the Qur’an and send its reward for the deceased. However, the majority of Muslim scholars are of the opinion that the reward of reciting the Qur’an does not reach the deceased. So, based on the opinion of ImamIbnTaymiyahyou can do it. You are also encouraged to makedu`aa‘ for the deceased relatives or friends or anyone you like. You can also makesadaqahjariyah(ongoingcharity) on their behalf.The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) is reported to have said: “When a person dies, all his deeds come to an end except three: ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge (which he has left behind), or a righteous child who will pray for him.” (Reported by at-Tirmidhiwith a good chain of transmission)”
Moreover, Sheikh `Abdul-Majeed Subh, a prominent Azharitescholar, added: “No doubt that reciting the Qur’an is good. There is a scholarly difference regarding the permissibility of reciting the Qur’an and granting its reward for the dead. It is permissible according toIbn Taymiyahto recite the Qur’an and to grant its reward for the dead.Surahs that are reported to be recited after someone’s death are:Ar-Ra`d,Yasin and Al-Mulk. But this does not prevent reciting othersurahs.“