Q: Is it permissible for a woman to go to work during iddat in order to retain her job thereafter, if she has no brothers, the rest of her mahrams are not interested in supporting her, though they have not been specifically asked, and her father is retired and so may not be able to support her after iddat. The question surrounds necessity. What constitutes necessity? It is unlikely that in a Western country, where benefits are paid, she is likely to starve. Furthermore, it is not the case that the father of the girl is so poor that he is eligible for zakat. It is very likely that he could provide his daughter meals and basic shelter after divorce. In such a scenario, would it be necessary for the woman to go to work during iddat if her husband is willing to pay maintenance?
A: If there is no one prepared to bear the future responsibility of this women and this seems to be the only way to secure herself then she is allowed to leave only to the point of need. She should first request her employers to allow her leave so that she may be able to observe her iddat. If this also does not work out then this will be the last option as explained.
And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
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