💰 Family finances · #92

My husband's family expects financial support that burdens our household. How do we deal with it?

Helping family is noble, but it must not go so far as to sacrifice your own family's needs and maintenance (nafkah). Maintenance goes first to the wife and children, and only then to helping others according to one's means. Husband and wife should discuss and agree on a limit they can afford to give, so the decision is made together, not quietly. Tell the family gently that you want to help within your means, rather than refusing outright. Offer help in other forms if money does not allow. Avoid borrowing to meet other people's expectations. Keeping these priorities is not stinginess, but responsibility. See family finances.

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This answer is general reference, not a fatwa. For your situation, consult the religious affairs office, a Syarie lawyer or your state Syariah Court.

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