Understanding Fidya and Kaffarah for Missed Ramadan Fasts
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Fasting during Ramadan is a fundamental obligation in Islam. However, there are situations where Muslims may miss fasts due to illness, travel, or other valid reasons. This raises an important question: what should you do if you miss a fast?
This guide explains the difference between Fidya and Kaffarah, when each applies, and how to fulfil your obligation correctly.
What Is Fidya?
Fidya is a form of compensation paid when someone is unable to fast due to a valid and ongoing reason and has no hope of making up the missed fasts later.
When Is Fidya Required?
You must give Fidya if:
- You are elderly and cannot fast
- You have a chronic illness
- Your condition is unlikely to improve
What Does Fidya Involve?
- Feeding a poor person for each missed fast
- Or paying the equivalent cost of one meal per fast
Example:
If you miss 30 fasts → you must feed 30 poor people or pay equivalent value.
What Is Kaffarah?
Kaffarah is a more serious penalty applied when someone intentionally breaks a fast without a valid reason during Ramadan.
When Is Kaffarah Required?
You must give Kaffarah if:
- You deliberately break a fast
- Without a valid excuse
- After intending to fast
What Does Kaffarah Involve?
You must choose one of the following:
- Free a slave (historical ruling)
- Fast for 60 consecutive days
- If unable → feed 60 poor people
This applies for each deliberately broken fast
Key Differences Between Fidya and Kaffarah
Fidya:
- For inability to fast
- Due to valid reasons
- Feed 1 poor person per missed fast
Kaffarah:
- For intentionally breaking fast
- Without valid excuse
- Feed 60 people or fast 60 days
Can You Combine Fidya and Kaffarah?
No. These are separate rulings.
- If you cannot fast at all → Fidya
- If you break fast intentionally → Kaffarah
What If You Missed Fasts Due to Temporary Reasons?
If your reason is temporary (e.g., illness, travel, pregnancy):
You must make up the fasts (Qadha) later
Fidya is not required in this case
How Much Is Fidya Per Day?
The amount varies by country but is based on:
- The cost of feeding one poor person for one day
In the UK:
- Typically around £3–£6 per fast (depending on charity)
How Much Is Kaffarah?
If feeding 60 people:
- 60 × cost of one meal
Example (UK):
- £3 × 60 = £180 per missed fast
Can You Pay Fidya and Kaffarah Online?
Yes. Many charities allow you to:
- Donate online
- Select number of fasts
- Automatically calculate amount
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Confusing Fidya with Kaffarah
- Paying Fidya when Qadha is required
- Delaying compensation without reason
- Not calculating correctly
- Assuming all missed fasts require Kaffarah
FAQs – Fidya and Kaffarah
What is the difference between Fidya and Kaffarah?
Fidya is for inability to fast, while Kaffarah is for intentionally breaking a fast.
Do I have to pay Fidya if I can make up my fasts later?
No. You must perform Qadha (make up the fasts) instead.
How many people do I feed for Fidya?
One person per missed fast.
How many people do I feed for Kaffarah?
60 people for each intentionally broken fast.
Can I pay money instead of giving food?
Yes, if it equals the cost of feeding the required number of people.
What if I break multiple fasts intentionally?
Kaffarah applies for each fast.
Can Fidya be given to one person?
Yes, but it must cover the equivalent of multiple days’ meals.
Is Kaffarah required for accidental breaking of fast?
No. Kaffarah only applies to deliberate actions.
Fulfil Your Responsibility with Confidence
Understanding the difference between Fidya and Kaffarah ensures that you fulfil your religious obligations correctly.
Whether you need to make up missed fasts, feed the poor, or give compensation, acting promptly and sincerely brings both peace of mind and spiritual reward.
Make your intention clear, fulfil your duty, and turn missed fasts into an opportunity to help others.
