How to Calculate Fidyah
A Simple Guide to Fulfilling Your Obligation
The Basic Rule
For each day of Ramadan missed and not able to be made up, one poor person must be fed one full meal, or its equivalent value in food or cash. This is the compensation for each missed fast.
How Much Per Day?
The amount of Fidyah per missed fast is based on the Sadaqatul Fitr rate — the same amount as Fitrah. Scholars set this at the value of one Sa' of a staple food per day, which in contemporary practice translates to a cash amount set annually by Islamic organizations. Check with a local Islamic organization or scholar for the current rate.
Calculating Your Total
- Count the total number of fasting days you missed and cannot make up
- Multiply by the current daily Fidyah rate
- Pay that total amount to eligible recipients
For example, if the daily rate is $10 and you missed 30 days of Ramadan, your total Fidyah would be $300.
What About Previous Years?
If you owe Fidyah for missed fasts from previous Ramadans and have not paid, you must pay for all outstanding days as soon as possible. Some scholars hold that the amount increases with delay; others say the original amount is sufficient. Consult a scholar you trust and pay as soon as you are able.
Can Fidyah Be Given as Food?
Yes. The original form of Fidyah is feeding a poor person directly. You can provide a full meal to a needy person for each missed fast. Donating the cash equivalent to a trustworthy organization that will use it to feed the poor is also widely accepted by contemporary scholars.
