I want to know how to give maaser.

It is a tremendous mitzva that you are taking on to give maaser. It is worthwhile as you begin to say that you are taking this on “bli neder,” without binding yourself with a vow to this practice.

The way to give maaser: One gives a tenth of his net income to tzedaka (charity). Net income is calculated by one’s total income minus all expenses incurred in earning this income.

Practically, many find the easiest way to do this is to write down all of one’s income (if one receives a monthly paycheck this is relatively easy). At the same time, one can continue giving tzedaka freely, and just write down every time the amount he gave to tzedaka. Periodically (say, every few months or once a year), one makes a calculation of all the income he had over the previous period, as well as all the tzedaka he give over that period, and see if they match up that he give one tenth to tzedaka. If he didn’t give enough (to be one tenth), at that point he gives the remainder that he needs to give. If it turns out he gave more than one tenth, then for the next period of time he can give less tzedaka.

There are many more nuances and details in the laws of giving maaaer. If you have any specific questions please feel free to reach out to us and we’ll try and help.

All the best!