Responsibilities of a Stepfather

The stepfather has no financial obligation towards his stepchild.

In the absence of the actual father, the responsibility for the child’s maintenance (nafaqah) falls on the paternal and maternal grandfathers if they are financially capable.

If the grandfathers are unable to support the child or have passed away, the mother assumes the responsibility of maintenance.

If the mother has no financial means to support her child but is physically capable of working, she is obligated to seek employment to provide for the child’s needs. In this instance, the husband cannot prevent her from working unless he voluntarily supports the child.

Nonetheless, it remains encouraged to care for orphans, as a fatherless child is considered an orphan until he or she reaches the age of puberty.

والله تعالى أعلم

And Allah knows best