Half-Shekel, Gifts to the Poor, and Mishloach Manot for the Wife
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Question
Is a person obligated to give on behalf of his wife the half-shekel, gifts to the poor, and mishloach manot, or is she exempt because her husband gives them?
Answer
Hello,
Half-Shekel - In principle, the custom is for men only, but many also give on behalf of their wife and daughters.
Gifts to the Poor and Mishloach Manot - These are obligatory for a woman just as for a man. Therefore, she is not exempt by what her husband gives. If he wishes to give on behalf of his wife, he must have explicit intention for her obligation as well.
[Some are stringent that for gifts to the poor, he should purchase money for her through the gabbai, so that the gifts are given from her own money].
Source
Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim, Siman 694, Se'if 1.
There, Siman 695, Se'if 4, and Mishnah Berurah, Se'if Katan 25
Azmera Leshimcha 198