Is it permissible to accept a sum of money in exchange for using one's personal name to obtain customs exemptions for those who are not entitled to them?
The question involves the ruling on customs duties and their collection from Muslims, which is strictly forbidden and falls under the category of "maks" (unjust tax or toll), concerning which the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Indeed, the collector of maks is in the Fire." It is permissible to evade these forbidden fees by any means that does not result in greater harm, even through stratagem or by paying a sum, and this is not considered relinquishing a right for money. Those working in this field should serve their brothers gratuitously to alleviate injustice from them. If they are unwilling to do so, they are not permitted to charge more than the customary wage to cover shipping costs and procedures.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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Where this answer came from
- Source platform
- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 190613
- Added here
- . This is when the answer was added to El Fatwa, not the fatwa's date.
- Text
- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
- Read the full ruling
- Read the full answer on Ftawy