Question:
Hello, I have a question that perhaps you can help me with. I am single and in my early thirties. I am not working. I am on a medication for depression. I was going for therapy. I do have money saved up for things like a wedding, a car and day to day expenses like health insurance. I have an amazing friend that will do almost anything to see me happy and settled. Can this friend use maaser money to pay for me to see a therapist?
Answer:
The general rule is that a person is considered “poor,” and may accept charity (such as ma’aser money) for their expenses even if they have savings, as long as these savings are only for basic requirements.
Someone who has additional savings for things like a car etc would probably not be regarded as an “Oni” – a poor person.
