A person has stopped working and received financial compensation, but has a debt that exceeds the amount of this compensation. He has a wife and children, and he is obligated to provide for them, with no other financial resources available. It is known that alimony takes precedence over debt repayment. The question is: what is the time frame for the alimony that should be prioritized over debt repayment? Is it one month, for example, allowing him to set aside alimony for himself, his wife, and his children for that month and then pay off the debt with what remains? Or is the time frame less than a month or more? Please advise us.
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1 Answer
Peace be upon you and God's mercy and blessings.
Ayatollah Khamenei (may God protect him):
In the case presented, unless the debt is due, the matter is up to you.
Source: Special Inquiry.
Ayatollah Sistani (may God protect him):
The debtor must repay the due debt immediately upon the creditor's request if he is able to do so, even if it requires selling his goods, possessions, or property, or borrowing from others if it does not cause him hardship, or renting out his assets. If he cannot do this, should he earn a suitable income and pay from it? It is strongly recommended to do so, especially in cases where it does not require excessive effort, and if he is preoccupied with earning, it becomes obligatory.
However, he is exempt from selling his residence, necessary clothing, or vehicle, and similar items that he needs according to his situation and status. The criterion is anything he needs based on his condition and dignity, such that without it, he would face hardship, distress, or humiliation.
Source: Minhaj al-Salihin, Vol. 2, Issue 994
May you be successful in all good.