Money found on the street

It is not permissible to simply take and use money found on the street. If a person picks up this money, they become responsible for safeguarding it and making efforts to return it to their rightful owner.

The correct course of action is as follows:

Announce the discovery of the money in the vicinity where it was found or place a public notice about the lost funds.

If the genuine owner comes forward and can accurately describe the amount and composition of the money lost, you must return it to them.

If, after a reasonable period and sincere efforts, the owner cannot be located, you have two options: a. Continue to hold the money in trust indefinitely. b. Give the money in charity on behalf of the unknown owner.

Should the owner appear after the money has been given in charity, inform them of your actions. If they accept the charity, they will receive its reward. If not, you must reimburse them from your own wealth, and you will receive the reward for the charity. (Hindiyyah 2:289)

Note 1: If the finder is destitute, they may use the money for essential needs only if all efforts to locate the owner have failed.

Note 2: In areas with established lost and found facilities, handing over the money to these authorities fulfils your responsibility.

And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best