My husband provides the basic necessities such as food, drink, and clothing, but he does not meet my personal needs, such as providing pocket money or buying gold, under the pretext that we are in a foundational stage. We live abroad, and I endure loneliness and the children. Is it permissible for me to take money without his knowledge in exchange for reducing my meals, so that I can buy my necessities? I kindly ask for your prayers for me, my children, and my husband for righteousness, guidance, and happiness.

The default rule is that a wife is prohibited from disposing of her husband's money without his permission, except in the case where he withholds maintenance. In such a case, she is permitted to take what is sufficient for her and her children, within reason. If the husband entrusts her with the maintenance, she is permitted to dispose of it in a way that is Islamically permissible, as long as no harm results from it. A husband is advised to be generous towards his family if Allah has made him prosperous, as gifting his wife is a sign of good companionship and earns her affection.