Fatwa #1411328 March 2006United States of America
what we will do with the money accumulated which is likely interest from the savings account. Can myself and my mother give our share to sadaqa a jaria
Question
My Unmarried Sister passed away and left behind an account in the post office with substantial money in there. Part of the money was accumulated due to the interest earned in the savings account at the post office. This account is in England.The survivors are mother and including me, two sisters. Our father passed away and we donot have any brother. How the money will be divided according to the shariat. My other sister is married and has no choildren and I have two children ( 2 boys).
Also what we will do with the money accumulated which is likely interest from the savings account. Can myself and my mother give our share to sadaqa a jaria. What are the possible forms the sdat a jaria. Can it be used for the construction of the masjid / community center for muslims or muslim school?
Answer
According to our understanding, your sister passed away and she is survived by a mother and two sisters. You did not state whether your father predeceased your sister or not. We also understand that you did have a brother.
If your father predeceased your sister, then your sister’s estate will be divided into 5 equal shares. The mother will inherit one share and each sister will inherit two shares. All your sister’s belongings will form part of her estate. That includes her savings in the post office. The interest amount on the savings will not form part of the estate. That amount must be given to the poor and needy without the intention of gaining reward. Your mother, sister and yourself may give charity with your own money of Sawaab-e-Jaariya for your sister.
and Allah Ta'ala Knows Best
Mufti Ebrahim Desai