Dear Rabbi Simon,
I have a couple of ma’aser [charity tithe] questions if you don’t mind helping me with, please.
My brother gave me £100 as a birthday present recently. Do I need to deduct ma’aser from this?
Also, is one able to give a donation from a salary that one has not been paid yet? As in, may I give a donation and have in mind that I will deduct that from a salary that I am due to be paid? Or one must have the money in one’s possession first?
Many thanks in advance.
Chodesh tov.
Sandra
Dear Sandra,
Thank you for your questions.
Happy birthday, and yes, it is proper/recommended to deduct ma’aser from your birthday gift.
In answer to your second question, yes, you may give ma’aser based on a payment (salary) you anticipate receiving.
Best wishes
Rabbi Rashi Simon