Fatwa #2771714 December 2013United Kingdom
What to do if ones family is pressuring him into keeping his interest-based account?
Question
So with the interest that is unwantedly put into our bank accounts, we take that out and give it charity and there is no sin on us? I would like to know specifically about the sin part, are we still sinful if our account gets interest even if we give the money to charity?
What to do if ones family is pressuring him into keeping his interest-based account?
Answer
In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh.
1) In principle, dealing with conventional banks is based on need and necessity. Accordingly, if one uses the facilities of a conventional bank out of necessity and the account accrues interest, one will not be sinful for that InshaAllah. The purpose was to use the bank facility and not to earn interest. However, the interest monies accrued will be disposed of as soon as possible.
2) Please explain why your family is putting pressure on you to keep the interest-based account.
And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best
Hisham Dawood
Student, Darul Iftaa
Chicago, USA
Checked and Approved by,
Mufti Ebrahim Desai.
www.daruliftaa.net