Dear Rabbi
When making havdalah, is it best to stand or sit?
Answer:
There are varying customs, both are acceptable. One who has no custom in his family or community should sit.
Sources:
See Shulchan Aruch 296:6 where the Mechaber rules to sit while the Rama notes the widespread custom to stand. The Vilna Gaon rules like the opinion of the Mechaber to sit. See Igros Moshe O:C 5:16 who explains at length that standing for kiddush or havdala should only be done with the precedent of a minhag, barring that one should sit.
