Must I return the 8,000 EGP I found as an excess after my divorce, and take the remaining 12,000 EGP of my mut'ah (compensatory gift) from my ex-husband, knowing that I took 12,000 EGP from his home during our marriage, and I intend to use all these funds to secure my children's future?

The "mut'ah" (consolatory gift) for a divorced woman with whom the marriage was consummated is recommended, not obligatory. Therefore, the wife does not have the right to demand it unless the husband gives it willingly. As for the "nafaqat al-iddah" (maintenance during the waiting period), it is a right of the divorced woman. If the husband refuses to provide maintenance, the woman may take from his wealth what suffices her and her young children, provided it is not for the children's future maintenance. In case of dispute, the determination of maintenance is referred to the Sharia judge. It is not permissible for a woman to take her husband's money without his permission, unless she has a right to it. If she takes it, she is sinful and must repent and return the money. There is no harm for the husband in preferring one of his wives with a gift if he provides each with her right to maintenance. Sustenance is in the hands of Allah, and a Muslim must employ legitimate means.