Obligation to give charity for a taxpayer
Question
I don’t tithe since I consider that most of my money I pay in taxes goes to charity. I have job that leaves me living in my car. I will be begin working at a second job starting in a week. I have no retirement or savings and I will be 64 this year.
Answer
Hello,
Taxes are not considered charity; the majority of tax revenues do not go towards charitable purposes, but rather towards the needs of citizens, such as infrastructure, roads, sports, etc.
If your income is not sufficient to cover your expenses, you are indeed exempt from giving tithes.
However, if your expenses are covered, you are obliged to give charity according to your ability.
Answered by
Answers questions at Rav Amram Fried's Beit Horaah
Smicha "Yoreh-Yoreh" (2012), Rav Amram Fried's Beit Horaah
Orach Chaim, Yoreh Deah
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