Fidyah and Kaffarah FAQs

"Fasting is for a fixed number of days, and if one of you be sick, or if one of you be on a journey, you will fast the same number of other days later on. For those who are capable of fasting (but still do not fast) there is a redemption: feeding a needy man for each day missed. Whoever voluntarily does more good than is required, will find it better for him; and that you should fast is better for you, if you only know." [Qur'an, 2:184]

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What is Fidya?

Fidya is a charitable compensation for missed fasts in cases where you are unable to make them up, such as prolonged illness, advanced age, or other valid reasons. It entails providing a meal for each missed fast to a Zakat-eligible individual.

When should Fidya be paid?

To fulfill your Fidya, payment should be made before missing the fast, acknowledging that it cannot be compensated for. If you anticipate missing the entire month of Ramadan, Fidya should be calculated for each day of fasting.

How much is Fidya and who benefits?

For $15, you can provide a meal for one person in Canada. Fidya is intended for those eligible to receive Zakat. At National Zakat Foundation, our goal is to distribute all Fidya donations within Ramadan. Any remaining funds are allocated to those in need in the weeks following Eid Al-Fitr.

What if I missed my fast without a valid reason?

Fidya is not applicable on fasts missed without a valid reason. In such cases, Kaffarah may be required, involving options like making up the fast, fasting for 60 consecutive days, or providing meals for 60 people per missed fast. For further guidance, consult your local Imam or scholar.

For additional information on Zakat or specific inquiries, feel free to ask an expert at National Zakat Foundation by submitting your questions online or scheduling a call.