Do I Need to Give Charity if I Previously Earned Haram Income Out of Ignorance?
Question
I worked at Burger King as a student and earned a salary for my work there, which I have already spent on rent and food in Germany. At that time, I did not know that selling non-halal meat is not allowed, even to non-Muslims. Burger King also sells halal items, and even in the burgers, some parts are halal, such as the bun, salad, and cheese, while the meat is the non-halal part. I sometimes worked as a cashier and sometimes in the kitchen. I never sold alcoholic drinks. I thought this work was permissible, so I did not think I was doing anything wrong. Now I have learned that this type of work may not be allowed, and I am worried about the money I earned. I am now working in a halal job. Do I have to give sadaqah from my current halal income to make up for the haram portion of my previous income? Note: I follow Hanfi school of thought.
Islamic Ruling & Answer
You did this work without knowing, so InshaAllah you are not sinful. The money you already earned and spent does not need to be returned.
However, for peace of heart and as a precaution, it is very good and rewarding to give some voluntary charity from your current halal income, with the intention that Allah forgives any past mistakes and makes your earnings pure.
Also, keep making repentance (tawbah) and asking for forgiveness.
Answered by
Mufti Tosif Qasmi
May 03, 2026 · Updated July 01, 2026
Researched & verified under our editorial & answer-review policy.
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