Maintenance During Iddat

Q: I requested Talaq (divorce) from my husband and he eventually agreed but gave me 3 Talaq. He has left me with considerable debt and does not want to pay maintenance. What is he liable for during my Iddah and how do I make him pay this?

A. It is compulsory for the husband to provide for the divorced wife during her Iddat as he would have provided for her during their marriage.

If the debts were incurred by yourself, then you are liable for them. On the other hand, if the debts were caused by him in your name, he shall have to settle them.

We suggest you ask the elders from both families to speak to him and resolve these issues or contact your local Ulama and request them to speak to your ex-husband.

Mufti Siraj Desai