Is it permissible for me to work with my father in the sales tax department, which imposes taxes on alcohol and cigarettes?

The state is permitted to impose taxes if the public treasury (Bayt al-Mal) is depleted, provided that the expenditure is on essential services and there is no mismanagement of public funds. However, if taxes are imposed without need or while there are sufficient funds in Bayt al-Mal, they are prohibited. The one who imposes them is considered a "Sahib Maks" (an unjust tax collector), who will not enter Paradise.

The ruling on working in tax collection depends on the nature of the collection: It is permissible if it adheres to Islamic law, is spent on the interests of Muslims, and the state treasury is empty. It is forbidden if taxes are imposed without need or if the labor laws contravene Islamic law, as this constitutes aiding in sin and aggression.

As for collecting taxes on alcohol and cigarettes, both are forbidden. The state is not allowed to accept their trade; rather, it must combat them. Working in the collection of taxes on them is like other taxes, with the consideration that their price is unlawful for their owner.

A Muslim is advised to seek out what is permissible and to distance themselves from doubtful matters, and to avoid working in tax administrations that may fall into forbidden acts.