Question Summary:
Does my husband have the right to stop me from spending my own money?

Question Detail:

I want to ask that I am earning my own money and working. Does my husband have the right to tell me not to use my money for going somewhere or shopping? I do work from home selling bakings etc to earn a living for my own spending as I don’t get money for him for own shopping. I think its unfair of him to stop me from using my hard earned money, what does shariah say that a person has their own money, no on ehas the right to stop them and control how they use their money?

Answer :

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh.
In principle, it is allowed for women to run their own business and to spend their own money according to their personal choice. Nobody has the privelige to infringe upon the right of the other person to spend their own money.
However, one must also realise that running a business comes with expenses, such as the flour, sugar, utility bills etc. Since you as a wife are rightful for a monthly allowance, the best compromise in the situation could be by both parties agreeing on a specific amount of monthly allowance from which the business expenditures get deducted accordingly. In this manner, there is a complete seperation between house expenditures and private business expenses which may lie at the root of the conflict between the two of you.
At the same time, breaking a habit that has lasted for many years is not easy. Since your husband didn’t provide you with any monthly allowance until now, he may feel baffled by your sudden demand. Approach him with wisdom and softness and gently request him to negotiate certain terms and conditions that can look at the best interest of both parties involved. Do supplicate Allāh ﷻ to assist you in this matter, show him this Fatwa and resolve the issue with maturity and understanding. If any of the two parties is unwilling to co-operate, then consider approaching a local scholar for guidance to mediate the matter between the two of you.
And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best
Khalil Johnson
Student Darul Iftaa
Canada 
Checked and Approved by,
Mufti Ebrahim Desai