KEY GUIDELINES FOR ZAKAT AL-FITR 1447 / 2026
Zakat al-Fitr, also referred to as Sadaqat al-Fitr, Fitrana, and Fitrah, is a mandatory charity that every able Muslim must give before Eid al-Fitr prayer. It purifies shortcomings during fasting and ensures that those in need can celebrate Eid with dignity.
Ibn Abbas (RA) reported: The Messenger of Allah ﷺ obligated Zakat al-Fitr as purification of the fasting person from vain talk and misbehavior, as food for the poor. Whoever pays it before the Eid prayer, it is accepted as Zakat. Whoever pays it after the Eid prayer, it is part of voluntary charity. (Recorded by Abu Dawood and Ibn Majah)
عَنْ ابْنِ عَبَّاسٍ قَالَ فَرَضَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ زَكَاةَ الْفِطْرِ طُهْرَةً لِلصَّائِمِ مِنْ اللَّغْوِ وَالرَّفَثِ وَطُعْمَةً لِلْمَسَاكِينِ مَنْ أَدَّاهَا قَبْلَ الصَّلَاةِ فَهِيَ زَكَاةٌ مَقْبُولَةٌ وَمَنْ أَدَّاهَا بَعْدَ الصَّلَاةِ فَهِيَ صَدَقَةٌ مِنْ الصَّدَقَاتِ – أخرجه أبو داود (1609)، وابن ماجه (1827)
WHAT: One صاع (saa’) of staple food (wheat, barley, dates, raisins, rice, beans, etc.), understood to be about 2.2 to 3.3 kg by most jurists, depending on the volume of the chosen staple food. Giving its price in cash is generally considered acceptable.
AMOUNT: $15 per individual, including infants and newborns. Giving more is highly encouraged. For those who are struggling, $10 may suffice based on prices at some discount stores. Staple foods can also be given directly to the needy or to Muslim food banks accepting Zakat al-Fitr.
WHEN: Before Eid al-Fitr prayer, at the latest. It is recommended to give it earlier in Ramadan to facilitate timely distribution.
WHO: The head of the household gives on behalf of themselves and their dependents to the needy in the Muslim community.
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