Your No-Stress Guide to Giving Matanot La'evyonim on Purim

As Purim approaches, one of its central mitzvot is caring for those in need. Matanot la’evyonim is not just an act of charity, but a key way we ensure that everyone can share in the joy of the day. Here is a clear, beginner-friendly guide to who gives, who receives, and how the mitzvah is fulfilled.

Who Should Receive Matanot La’evyonim

The mitzvah is to give two gifts to two people in need, meaning one gift to each person.

A person in need is someone whose income does not cover their basic monthly expenses. Someone who earns well but is struggling due to poor financial management is not considered needy for this mitzvah.

Giving to a husband and wife who both qualify as needy counts as giving to two people. Giving to a father and his dependent son also fulfills the requirement. A minor who qualifies as needy may receive matanot la’evyonim as well.

What to Give and How Much

The mitzvah is fulfilled with money or ready to eat food. Clothing, household items, or utensils do not count.

Technically, even a very small amount is sufficient. Still, one should try to give generously and with warmth, roughly enough to cover a simple meal such as bread and a side dish.

On Purim, we do not question or investigate those who ask. Anyone who reaches out is given.

If possible, it is better to spend more on matanot la’evyonim than on the Purim meal or mishloach manot. The greatest joy of Purim is bringing happiness and relief to those who are struggling.

When to Give

In cities that were not walled, matanot la’evyonim is given on the 14th of Adar, from after the daytime Megillah reading until sunset.

In cities that were walled, it is given on the 15th, during the same time window.

In cities where it is unclear whether they were walled in ancient times, the basic obligation is on the 14th. Some are careful to give again on the 15th.

Matanot la’evyonim must be given during the daytime, not at night, and ideally right after the daytime Megillah reading. If it was given before this time, the mitzvah has not been fulfilled.

Who Is Obligated to Give

• Men
• Women, including married women
• Boys age 13 and up
• Girls age 12 and up
• Even someone who themselves receives charity

Children who have reached the age where they can be taught mitzvot should also be encouraged to give, as part of their education.

Using Charity Tithe Funds

The basic obligation of matanot la’evyonim should not be fulfilled using regular charity tithe funds, since mitzvah obligations should be paid from personal funds.

However, if someone originally set aside charity funds without a binding commitment and is under financial strain, those funds may be used. In addition, once a person has fulfilled the basic requirement, any extra giving may be done using charity tithe money.

Giving Through a Charity Organizer

If you do not personally know people in need, you may give your money to a trustworthy charity organizer who distributes it on Purim. This fulfills the mitzvah as long as the funds are actually given to recipients on the correct day.

If You Cannot Find a Recipient

If no recipients are available, you may set aside the money and designate it for distribution to those in need at a later point.

How Recipients May Use the Money

Money given for matanot la’evyonim may be used by the recipient however they choose. It does not need to be spent on food and may be used for clothing, books, or other personal needs.

This mitzvah reminds us that the joy of Purim is not complete until everyone is able to celebrate with dignity and peace of mind.