A question about returning money taken from a parent without their knowledge and how to account for changes in currency value.
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1 Answer
Peace be upon you.
Grand Ayatollah Sayyid Sistani (may Allah protect him):
If the money taken was valuable and its value changed over time, if there is no difference in value at the time it was taken, at the time it was lost, or at the time of repayment, then there is no issue. However, if the value differed due to the passage of time, such as being higher or lower at the time of taking compared to the time of loss or repayment, then the value at the time of loss is what matters, although it is recommended to reach an agreement regarding the difference.
Thus, if you took it in dollars, you must return it in dollars since its value did not change. If it was in lira, you must guarantee its value at the time you took it and exchanged it. However, reaching an agreement is preferable.
Source: Minhaj al-Salihin, Vol. 2, Ghasb, M 833
Grand Ayatollah Sayyid Khamenei (may Allah protect him):
If the taken money was in dollars, it must be returned to its owner in dollars. If it was in lira, it must be returned as well. The owner has the right to demand compensation for inflation, which is not the same as the difference in currency values but rather the rate of decline in currency value relative to all goods and commodities. If the inflation rate cannot be precisely determined, they should reach an agreement.
Note: The amount of inflation is the difference between the original value of the taken money and the value returned due to decreased purchasing power.
Source: Special Inquiry: 1, 2.
May you be successful in all good.