Question:
Last year, through the year I paid for 4 members of my family to have expensive urgent dental work done because they could not afford it. I put these expenses onto my credit card, which I am still paying off. The total amount was far more than 20%, so can this amount carry over to this year also?
I still continue to help my family every month with a few regular monthly bills, and also food when they need it which does not amount to 10% of my monthly income, but considering I’m still paying off the debt from last year, I wondered if this is ok.
Answer:
A person that gave more money than maser or chomesh may take the “credit” of the extra money that was given for the next year’s earnings. It is preferable however to specifically state this when accepting to give maser.
Sources:
Pichei Teshuva Y:D 249-1, Livushei Srad Chidushei Dinim Y:D 104, Matah Moshe brought in Cheshev Haefod 1-105(2), Shevet Halevi 2-133 (9), Mishneh Halachos Second Edition vol. 18-159, Orchos Rabeinu 1 pg.303, Orach Tzedakah 2 ftnt 20 in the name of R’ S. Auerbach shlit”a.
