Q: I have an account in which I am receiving ‘interest’ based on available balance every month. I am separating this amount every month and not using it. Recently, I have been charged for a municipality fine (as my wife mistakenly hanged the towel on the window). Can I pay this fine from this interest amount?
A: It is impermissible for one to intentionally accumulate interest money. However if interest money had come in ones possession unintentionally, one should immediately dispose of it through giving it to the poor without the intention of reward. According to some Ulama’ it is permissible to use interest money for paying government fines.
And Allah Ta’ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
Answered by:
Mufti Zakaria Makada
Checked & Approved:
Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)