A wife claiming welfare/benefits to cover the rent, whilst the husband is working
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Question
What is the ruling on a woman claiming housing benefit/welfare/state benefits as if she was a lone parent, and stating that she doesn't want to name the father of her children, whilst her husband does actually live with her and is employed? If the real situation was revealed, they would not be entitled to such benefits. If they feel that they would be struggling to pay the rent without benefits how does this affect the situation?Answer
Walaikum assalam wa rahmatullah,
I pray that this finds you well, and in the best of health and spirits. May Allah grant you all good and success in this life and the next.
The Prophet Muhammad (Allah bless him and give him peace) said,
"The one who cheats is not of us."
[Muslim, Tirmidhi, and Abu Dawud]
One is only entitled to government benefits if one fulfills the conditions. If one does not and yet claims them, this would be deception. Deception is a grave sin and not permitted in speech even in war. [Abu al-Su`ud, Fath al-Mu`in `ala Sharh Mulla Miskin]
For details, see:
Welfare, Working Under the Table, and the Issue of Cheating and Deception
http://qa.sunnipath.com/issue_view.asp?HD=1&ID=1920&CATE=39
Instead, one should seek Allah's assistance by turning to Him in supplication; and seek the worldly means to obtain better work. And Allah never lets the efforts of those who strive for His sake fail.
And Allah alone gives success.
Faraz Rabbani
This answer was published by SunniPath and is preserved as written. Rulings can depend on circumstances; for your own situation, consult a qualified scholar.
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