Fitrana FAQs
What is Zakat ul Fitr and why is it paid?
Zakat ul Fitr is incumbent on every Muslim who possesses one saa’* of food which is not needed as a basic necessity for themselves self or their family for the duration of one day and night.
“Sadaqah In our most recent Qurbani campaign, your donations enabled Islamic Relief to distribute Qurbani meat to over 3 million people across 27 countries — including 44,822 people right here in South Africa.sin as water extinguishes fire.”
Ibn `Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported:
“The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) ordained Zakat ul Fitr to purify the fasting person from indecent words or actions, and to provide food for the needy. It is accepted as Zakat for the person who gives it before the Eid prayer; but it is a mere Sadaqah for the one who gives it after the prayer.” [Abu Dawud and Ibn Majah]
When is Zakat ul Fitr paid?
Fitrah (Zakat ul Fitr) must be paid within the month of Ramadan. The latest it can be paid is before the Eid prayer begins so that those in need can benefit in time for Eid.
Ibn Abbas narrates:
“It is accepted as Zakat for the person who gives it before the Eid prayer; but it is a mere Sadaqah for the one who gives it after the prayer.” [Abu Dawud]
Do children have to pay?
It is compulsory for every member of a household including children and babies to pay Zakat ul Fitr (Fitrana). However, parents/guardians may pay on behalf of their children/dependents.
Who are the recipients of Zakat ul Fitr?
The majority of scholars hold the opinion that only the first two categories of the recipients of Zakat can receive Zakat ul Fitr.
Fitrana FAQs : Miscellaneous
Can I pay Zakat ul Fitr late if I forget?
One of the conditions of Fitrah (Zakat ul Fitr) is that it must be paid before the Eid prayer. However, if paid after it will be treated as Sadaqah, therefore the reward will be lesser.
What do you mean when you say Islamic Relief acts as an agent and how does this allow me to pay in currency?
An agent is someone who facilitates your paying of Fitrana (Zakat ul Fitr) because they are better placed to distribute it. You can pay them in currency because it is as if you are asking them to pay on your behalf. We use that money to buy the food which we give to the appropriate recipients, therefore, it is as if you are the one giving food rather than currency.
Can I take Zakat ul Fitr before 27th Ramadan
Yes you can, according to the Hanafi Madh-hab. The Shafi’i Madh-hab also follows follows this ruling.
Visit our Zakat page for answers on frequently asked questions around Zakat.