Understanding Fidya in Islam

Fidya (fidyah) is a charitable compensation required when someone is unable to fast during Ramadan and cannot make up the missed fasts later. It serves as a means to fulfill one’s religious obligation by providing food to those in need.


Who Needs to Pay Fidya?

Fidya applies to individuals who cannot fast due to valid reasons and have no hope of regaining the ability to do so. This includes:

The elderly who are physically unable to fast. Those suffering from chronic illnesses with no expectation of recovery. If someone misses fasts due to temporary illness, travel, or menstruation, they are required to make up the fasts later rather than pay fidya.


Shafi’i and Hanbali Schools: Fidya is also required for those permanently unable to fast. However, these schools differ from the Hanafi school in the fidya amount required. Maliki School: Paying fidya is recommended for those who cannot fast due to old age or chronic illness but is not considered mandatory.

Additionally, the majority of Maliki, Shafi’i, and Hanbali scholars hold that if someone delays making up missed fasts beyond the next Ramadan, they must both fast later and pay fidya as extra compensation.

How Much is Fidya? Fidya is the cost of feeding a poor person two meals per missed fast. The exact amount depends on local food prices, so it is best to check with a trusted Islamic organization or scholar. Many charities provide fidya calculation services to ensure accurate donations.

Would you like help calculating your fidya or finding a charity to donate through?