What should I do about a maid who worked in exchange for food and clothing, then left me, and I was unable to give her the rest of what she was owed?
If the inquirer and the maid agreed that her wage would be her food and clothing, then this is permissible according to some scholars. However, if no wage was agreed upon, then the hiring contract is invalid (), and the hirer must pay the customary wage (ajrat al-mithl). If the customary wage is determined, it remains owed by the inquirer until the maid or her representative comes to collect it. If she despairs of her coming, she should give it as charity on her behalf. If the maid later comes and approves the charity, then she will have the reward. If she does not approve it, then the wage remains obligatory upon the inquirer.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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