ots@ohrtorahstone.org.il

Question:
My bank account is in overdraft. Am I still obligated to give "ma'aser kesafim" (10% of my earnings to charity)?

Answer:
Unfortunately, most of the citizens of our holy country live in overdraft. Overdraft has become a part of life to the extent that it is a fixed item on the list of weekly expenses, and must be taken into account when drawing up the monthly budget. Hence, if - despite the overdraft - there is still enough money for basic necessities such as food, rent, bus fare etc. then one is still obligated to give "ma'aser kesafim". But if one reaches the stage where he himself requires financial assistance then he is obviously exempt from the obligation.

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