Paying Fidya is an important Islamic obligation for Muslims who cannot fast in Ramadan due to valid reasons such as chronic illness or old age. However, many people unintentionally make mistakes when calculating or paying Fidya.

This guide explains the most common mistakes Muslims make when paying Fidya, how to avoid them, and what Islamic scholars say, so you can fulfil your obligation correctly and with confidence.

What Is Fidya in Islam?

Fidya is compensation given when a Muslim cannot fast in Ramadan permanently and is unable to make up the missed fasts later.

It generally applies to:

• Elderly people who cannot fast
• Those with long-term or chronic illness
• Individuals whose health would significantly worsen by fasting
• Certain cases of pregnancy or breastfeeding (depending on recovery ability)

Fidya is typically paid by feeding one poor person for each missed fast.

7 Common Mistakes When Paying Fidya

Understanding these errors helps ensure your worship is valid and accepted.

1️⃣ Paying Fidya When Qada Is Actually Required

One of the biggest mistakes is assuming Fidya replaces making up fasts.

If a person:

• Is temporarily ill
• Pregnant and expects to recover
• Travelling
• Recovering from surgery

They must make up the fasts (Qada) later, not pay Fidya.

Fidya only applies when fasting is permanently impossible.

2️⃣ Delaying Fidya Without Valid Reason

Some people delay payment for months or years without necessity.

While Fidya can be paid after Ramadan, it is better to:

• Pay during Ramadan
• Or immediately after

Unnecessary delay may be sinful if one has the means to pay.

3️⃣ Incorrect Calculation of Amount

Another common mistake is underpaying.

Fidya must equal the cost of feeding one poor person per missed fast.

Errors occur when people:

• Guess the amount
• Use outdated rates
• Multiply incorrectly

Always confirm the current local rate from a reliable Islamic organisation.

4️⃣ Paying for Someone Who Can Actually Fast Later

Sometimes family members pay Fidya for elderly relatives without proper consultation.

If the person can:

• Regain strength
• Recover medically
• Fast shorter winter days

Then Qada may still be required instead of Fidya.

5️⃣ Confusing Fidya With Kaffarah

Fidya and Kaffarah are completely different.

• Fidya: For inability to fast
• Kaffarah: For deliberately breaking a fast without valid excuse

Kaffarah is much heavier (fasting 60 consecutive days or feeding 60 poor people).

Mixing the two leads to incorrect payments.

6️⃣ Not Intending (Niyyah) Properly

Even though Fidya is a financial act, intention matters.

Before paying, one should intend in the heart:

“This payment is Fidya for my missed Ramadan fasts.”

No verbal statement is required, but sincerity is essential.

7️⃣ Giving Fidya to Ineligible Recipients

Fidya must go to eligible poor individuals (similar to Zakat recipients).

It should not be given to:

• Wealthy individuals
• Immediate dependents
• Those already financially responsible under your care

Always ensure it reaches legitimate beneficiaries.

When Is Fidya Valid?

Fidya is valid when:

✔ The person cannot fast permanently
✔ The correct amount is paid
✔ It reaches eligible poor recipients
✔ The intention is clear

How to Avoid These Mistakes

To ensure correct payment:

• Confirm whether you owe Qada or Fidya
• Calculate accurately
• Pay promptly
• Consult a qualified scholar if unsure
• Use trustworthy Islamic organisations

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I pay Fidya even if I might recover later?

No. If recovery is possible and you can fast later, you must make up the fasts (Qada) instead of paying Fidya.

2. What if I already paid Fidya but later recovered?

You must make up the fasts. Fidya alone does not replace fasting if recovery becomes possible.

3. Can Fidya be paid in instalments?

Yes, if you cannot afford it all at once. It remains a debt until fully paid.

4. Is paying extra better?

Yes, giving more than the minimum amount is allowed and rewarded as charity.

5. Does Fidya require a verbal intention?

No. Intention in the heart is sufficient.

6. What if I calculated incorrectly?

If you underpaid unintentionally, pay the remaining balance as soon as possible.

7. Can Fidya be given as money instead of food?

In the Hanafi school, monetary value is permissible if it benefits the poor. Other schools prefer food distribution.

Final Advice

Fidya is not just a payment, it is an act of obedience and mercy. Mistakes usually happen due to misunderstanding, not negligence.

Before paying:

• Confirm your obligation
• Calculate carefully
• Fulfil it sincerely

May Allah accept your efforts and grant you ease.