💰 Family finances · #12
Should debts between family members be written down?
Al-Baqarah 2:282 directs it at length and with no exception for family.
The verse commands that when you contract a debt for a fixed term, write it down; let a scribe write it with justice; and call two witnesses. It adds: do not be averse to writing it down, whether small or large — that is more just in the sight of Allah, stronger as evidence, and more likely to prevent doubt between you. The end of the verse is the reason: more likely to prevent doubt. Unrecorded loans to siblings or in-laws are the most frequent cause of family disputes, and they can be avoided with a single sheet of paper.
The verse commands that when you contract a debt for a fixed term, write it down; let a scribe write it with justice; and call two witnesses. It adds: do not be averse to writing it down, whether small or large — that is more just in the sight of Allah, stronger as evidence, and more likely to prevent doubt between you. The end of the verse is the reason: more likely to prevent doubt. Unrecorded loans to siblings or in-laws are the most frequent cause of family disputes, and they can be avoided with a single sheet of paper.
Sources
Surah al-Baqarah 2:282