Ask the Rabbi
- Family and Society
- Tzedakka - Charity
- Ma'asser - Tithing - To Who?
- Halacha
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- General Questions
Question
Hi,
Can the membership dues that one pays to a shul count towards fulfilling one’s annual maaser requirement? Thanks.
Answer
Ma'aser money should be given to the poor. However, one may give it to other good causes after consulting a Rabbi. Giving to the building or upkeep of a shul one can give Ma'aser money. Membership dues should not be paid from Ma'aser money.
Rabbi Yitzchak Grinblat

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