Must maintenance be given to children in cash?

Question

Question: If the father does not pay the maintenance (nafaqa) that is binding upon him in the form of cash, but himself arranges the children’s clothing, food and medical treatment, will the right of maintenance be fulfilled or not? Explain, and be rewarded.

Answer

It will be fulfilled. Giving cash is not required; the purpose is that the needs be met.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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