As Shahr Ramadan comes to an end, Muslims worldwide embrace an important charitable obligation that embodies generosity and community spirit—Zakat Al-Fitr.
This guide will help you fulfill this essential duty, ensuring that your fast is completed with purity and that those in need can celebrate Eid with dignity.
Key Information You Should Know
📅 Deadline: Before Eid prayer
💰 Amount: Equivalent to 3kg of staple food per individual
👥 Who Must Pay: Every eligible Muslim
🎯 Who Receives It: Needy Shia Muslims
⏰ Best Time to Give: The night before Eid
Understanding Zakat Al-Fitr (Fitrana)
Zakat Al-Fitr, also known as Fitrana, is a compulsory donation given at the end of Shahr Ramadan. It serves to purify one’s fast while ensuring that underprivileged individuals can partake in Eid celebrations. Unlike annual zakat, Zakat Al-Fitr is a fixed obligation for every Muslim who meets the criteria.
Differences between Zakat al-Fitr and Regular Zakat
| Aspect | Zakat Al-Fitr | Regular Zakat |
| Timing | End of Ramadan | Annually |
| Amount | Fixed (food value) | 2.5% of wealth |
| Eligibility | All Muslims | Those with qualifying wealth |
| Purpose | Purification and Charity | Redistribution of Wealth |
Who Must Pay Zakat al-Fitr?
- You meet the conditions by sunset on the last day of Shahr Ramadan.
- You have sufficient food and resources for Eid.
- You are responsible for dependents (you must pay on their behalf).
Guidelines from Sayyid Sistani (ha)
- Who Can Receive Zakat Al-Fitr?
- Must be given to needy Shia Muslims.
- Cannot be given to one’s dependents.
- When Should It Be Paid?
- Anytime after Maghrib sets in on the 1st of Shawwal (Eid Al-Fitr night).
- Must be given before performing Eid prayer (or Dhuhr prayer if you are not performing Eid prayer).
- If giving in advance, your niyyat (intention) must be of a loan; once the required time set in, you will need to change your niyyat to Zakat Al-Fitr.
Commonly Asked Questions
- Can I pay early? – Yes, but with the intention of loan; this will need to change after the time sets in.
- What if I miss the deadline? – It becomes a debt that must be settled quickly. Your niyyat will be qurbat, and neither ada or qadha.
Can I give directly to someone? – Yes, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
Why Zakat al-Fitr Matters
- Completes your Shahr Ramadan obligation.
- Purifies your fasts and wealth.
- Allows struggling families to enjoy Eid.
- Strengthens the unity of the Muslim Ummah.
How Your Contribution Helps
- Provides essential food supplies for Eid.
- Helps families afford clothing and essentials.
- Supports those struggling with basic needs.
A Sacred Obligation
“It is obligatory to pay Zakat al-Fitr as a means of purifying one’s fast and feeding the poor. Whoever pays it before the Eid prayer, it is considered an accepted zakat, and whoever pays it after the prayer, it is just a form of charity.” – Ayatollah Sistani (ha)
Steps to Give Zakat al-Fitr
- Step 1: Calculate your total amount.
- Step 2: Choose your preferred payment method.
- Step 3: Complete your donation before Eid prayer.
💝 Ensure Every Family Can Celebrate Eid—Donate Now!
