Khums: Are Partially Paid ‘Īd Gifts from the Government Liable for Khums?

Practical Laws of Islam as per the teachings of Imam Khamenei

Khums: Are Partially Paid ‘Īd Gifts from the Government Liable for Khums?

English:

Question #859:

The government gives things as ‘īd gifts to employees some of which remain unused until the year’s end. Although employees’ ‘īd gifts are not subject to khums, as we make partial payment for these things, it implies that it is not fully a gift but something bought at a reduced price. Should we pay khums for the amount we have paid for it or should we calculate its total worth on the basis of its market value to pay its khums? Or is it not subject to khums at all because it is an ‘īd gift?

Answer #859:

In the given case, since the government had really given a portion of the things to the employees for free and took money for the other portion, in case the remaining goods equals the portions given by the government for free, it is not subject to khums, but if it is more than that, the extra amount is subject to khums at the actual price.

-Imam Khamenei, Practical Laws of Islam, Importance and Conditions of Khums