Dear Rabbi Simon,
I have a question regarding ma’aser.
In the UK under the Gift Aid one can claim for the tax back on any eligible giving. I opened an Achisomoch account that automatically claims the tax benefit on my behalf, enabling me to effectively give more to tzedakah (in the case of eligible charities registered in the UK).
My question is as follows. If I have £1000 of income [subject to the ma’aser/tithing requirement of 10%], can I fulfil my obligation by sending £80 to Achisomoch, which will enable me to distribute the full amount of £100 after HMRC credits me with the additional 25%? [These figures are rounded for ease of illustration.]
I am happy to call and discuss.
Tzadok
Hi Tzadok and thank you for your practical question. There are different views on this matter. This is my approach:
One who struggles to afford the 10% maaser allocation due to limited resources may rely on HMRC to top up his donation to enable him to distribute the full 10% to tzedakah. However, this is not the preferred approach for one of sufficient means, as he is ultimately retaining more than 90% of his disposable income. “Best practice” is to use the bonus courtesy of HMRC to give additional funds to deserving causes.
Best wishes and may we all be in the position to give generously.
Rabbi Rashi Simon