Fidyah and Kaffarah FAQ

Answer

**Q: What is Kaffarah?** A: The penalty upon a person who intentionally breaks their fast for no valid shar'i reason, by eating, drinking, or engaging in conjugal relations. The Kaffarah is to fast 60 consecutive days; if that isn't possible due to a valid shar'i reason (e.g. old age or chronic illness), one feeds 60 poor people two full meals for one day, or one poor person two full meals a day for 60 days — the Sadaqatul Fitr (Fitra) amount may be given instead of feeding them directly.

**Q: How do I pay Fidyah to compensate for missed fasts if I am no longer able to fast?** A: Fidyah is monetary compensation given to poor Muslims; it can be paid during or after Ramadaan, but not before.

**Q: Can a sick person pay fidyah instead of fasting?** A: Only a person permanently incapable of fasting due to a terminal illness or old age. Fidyah cannot be given for a temporary sickness or a temporary valid excuse such as pregnancy or breastfeeding.

*And Allah Ta'ala Knows Best.*