As the holy month of Ramadan comes to a close and Eidul Fitr approaches, Muslims are reminded of their obligation to pay Fidya and Fitrana, which are integral parts of the Islamic tradition during this blessed month.
Here’s everything you need to know about how to pay these charitable dues, including their value, who should pay, and when.
Who Should Pay Fitrana?
Zakat al-Fitr (Fitrana) is obligatory for all Muslims, whether or not they are required to pay regular zakat. If a person is liable for zakat or possesses wealth in excess of essential needs (such as home, clothing, and household goods) that equals or exceeds the Nisab threshold, they must pay Zakat al-Fitr.
This applies regardless of whether the wealth is from trade goods or personal assets, and regardless of whether a full year has passed. Those who meet these criteria are required to fulfill this duty.
When to Pay Fitrana
Zakat al-Fitr is specifically tied to the morning of Eidul Fitr, starting at dawn, when Fajr prayer time begins. Ideally, Fitrana should be paid before the Eid prayer on the morning of Eid.
Paying it before the prayer brings great reward. If it is not paid before the prayer, it can still be paid after, though the reward will be diminished. One can also pay it during the month of Ramadan but delaying payment beyond the morning of Eid is discouraged and considered contrary to tradition, but it remains obligatory.
What is Fidya?
Fidya is a form of charity for Muslims who are unable to fast due to reasons such as illness, old age, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or any other condition that permanently prevents them from fasting. Instead of making up for missed fasts, these individuals can pay Fidya to feed a poor person for each missed fast. The concept of Fidya is outlined in the Quran.
When to Pay Fidya
Fidya can be paid in the form of food or money, depending on personal circumstances and available resources. It can be paid before or during Ramadan but is preferably given before Eidul Fitr, marking the end of the fasting month. Fidya can be paid online through various Islamic charitable websites or offline via local mosques or Islamic organizations.
Value of Fitrana and Fidya
Renowned religious scholar and former Chairman of the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, Mufti Muneeb-ur-Rehman, had announced the minimum values for Fitrana and Fidya for the current year.
The minimum amount for both is set at Rs240 per person.
Mufti Muneeb-ur-Rehman emphasized that individuals of means should pay their Fitrana, Fidya, and Kaffara according to their financial capacity. He also clarified the specific values for various forms of Fidya: Rs240 for wheat flour, Rs700 for barley, Rs4,000 for premium dates, and Rs6,400 for high-quality raisins.
In addition, Mufti Muneeb-ur-Rehman explained that the Kaffara for breaking a fast, due to reasons such as intentionally eating or drinking—is to feed two meals to 60 needy individuals.
As Ramadan comes to a close, Muslims are encouraged to fulfill these charitable obligations, ensuring the welfare of those in need and receiving the rewards of their acts of charity.
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