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Ramadan is a sacred time of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims around the world. But what happens if someone genuinely cannot fast? Islam, in its divine mercy, provides alternatives for those unable to fulfil this pillar. One such alternative is Fidyah.
Whether you’re caring for a loved one, struggling with long-term health issues, or facing a situation that prevents you from fasting, this guide explains what Fidyah is, who should pay it, and how to do so correctly.
Fidyah refers to a compensatory donation paid by someone who cannot fast during Ramadan and cannot make up the missed fasts later due to valid reasons such as illness or old age.
The Quran mentions Fidyah in the context of fasting:
"For those who can only fast with extreme difficulty, compensation can be made by feeding a needy person for every day not fasted. But whoever volunteers to give more, it is better for them. And to fast is better for you, if only you knew."
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:184)
According to the Hanafi, Shafi’i, and Hanbali schools of thought, Fidyah should be paid by:
a. Elderly people who cannot fast and have no hope of regaining the strength to do so.
b. Chronically ill people whose sickness is permanent and offers no hope of recovery.
Fidyah is not a penalty but rather a merciful concession for those unable to fast.
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Islam recognises the diversity of human situations. You may be eligible to pay Fidyah if:
If age has weakened you to the point where fasting endangers your health or causes severe hardship, then you are exempt and must pay Fidyah instead.
Those with long-term illnesses where fasting worsens their condition are allowed to pay Fidyah, provided the condition is unlikely to improve. This includes conditions like severe diabetes, kidney disease, or heart failure.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women who fear for their own health or the health of their baby may pay Fidyah if making up the fasts later is not possible. However, scholars differ here; in some opinions, they must make up the fasts when able.
It’s always best to consult a trusted scholar or local imam for individual cases.
Fidyah is one meal given to a poor person per day of fasting missed.
In monetary terms, most Islamic scholars and charities agree that the amount should be equivalent to the cost of feeding a poor person two simple meals for each missed fast.
Most UK-based Islamic charities currently recommend £5 to £7 per missed fast.
So, if you missed all 30 days of Ramadan:
£5 x 30 = £150
£7 x 30 = £210
Always check with a reputable charity to confirm the updated daily rate.
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This is the original and preferred method. You may give cooked meals or provide the value of those meals directly to someone in need.
If you know someone locally who struggles to afford meals, this is a beautiful and direct way to fulfil your duty.
Many reliable charities in the UK offer Fidyah payment services. They distribute food on your behalf to those in need across the UK and globally.
Be sure the charity is:
a. Transparent about distribution
b. Follows Islamic rulings
c. Uses your funds exclusively for food provision to those in need
You can also pay Fidyah online via charity websites. Simply select “Fidyah” during donation and enter the number of missed fasts.
Tip: Always make your intention (niyyah) before paying.
Yes, Fidyah can be paid in advance if you are certain that you will not be able to fast due to a chronic illness or old age.
For example:
An elderly person who has been unable to fast for years can pay for all 30 days at the beginning of Ramadan.
However, if you are unsure whether you’ll be able to fast, it's best to wait and pay after Ramadan based on the exact number of missed fasts.
These two are often confused, but they’re quite different:
Fidyah | Kaffarah |
For those who can’t fast due to valid, permanent reasons | For those who break a fast without a valid reason (e.g., eating intentionally) |
One meal per day for a poor person | Fasting for 60 consecutive days or feeding 60 poor people |
A compassionate concession | A penalty and expiation for a deliberate act |
So, if you deliberately miss or break your fast without a valid reason, Fidyah does not apply, you must pay Kaffarah instead.
There are several trustworthy options to pay your Fidyah from the UK:
a. Islamic Relief UK – transparent rates and wide distribution
b. Muslim Hands – offers local and international Fidyah services
c. Human Appeal – an easy-to-use online portal
d. National Zakat Foundation (NZF) – supports UK-based Muslims
Many mosques accept Fidyah payments during Ramadan. Ask your local imam or mosque office about their process.
Websites like LaunchGood and GoFundMe (with verified Islamic causes) also allow you to support community kitchens and feeding programmes that align with Fidyah requirements.
Fidyah is a gentle reminder of Islam’s compassion. It ensures that no one is burdened beyond their capacity and allows everyone to participate in the spirit of Ramadan, even when fasting isn’t possible.
If you are in a position where you’re exempt from fasting due to age, illness, or other permanent conditions, fulfilling Fidyah with sincerity and care is your way of maintaining the beauty and discipline of this blessed month.
So give with a willing heart, seek Allah’s mercy, and rest easy knowing that you have honoured His command in the best way you can.
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