💰 Family finances · #36

We are trapped in mounting debts, including with loan sharks (along). What steps should we take?

Do not take on more debt to pay off debt; list all your debts, put the family's safety first, and get official help such as AKPK (the Credit Counselling and Debt Management Agency).
The Prophet ﷺ sought refuge with Allah from debt and said that a person in debt easily lies and breaks promises (Sahih al-Bukhari 2397); yet Allah also commands lenders to give time to those in difficulty (al-Baqarah 2:280). Practical steps: be honest with your spouse; list the creditors, balances and rates; contact the banks about restructuring; register with AKPK for its free, licensed debt management programme; and avoid unlicensed lenders. If loan sharks threaten or harass the family, make a police report — it is a crime. State zakat centres offer help to eligible gharimin (those in debt). Look after your mental health; debt stress is one of the main causes of marital conflict. See Zakat & welfare.

Sources

Sahih al-Bukhari 2397Surah al-Baqarah 2:280Surah at-Taubah 9:60

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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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