Can Zakat al-Fitr Be Paid in Cash?
As Ramadan draws to a close, many Muslims wonder whether Zakat al-Fitr can be given in cash instead of food. However, the correct ruling—based on the Sunnah and the view of the majority of scholars—is that Zakat al-Fitr must be given in food, not money.
Shaykh Ibn Baz (رحمه الله) stated:
“It is not permissible to pay the value in money! According to the majority of scholars, this view has the stronger evidence. Rather, it must be given in the form of food, as the Prophet (ﷺ) and his Companions (may Allah be pleased with them) did. This is also the view of the majority of the ummah.”
(Majmu’ Fatawa al-Shaykh Ibn Baz, 14/200)
Why Must Zakat al-Fitr Be Given in Food?
1️⃣ Following the Sunnah – The Prophet (ﷺ) explicitly instructed that Zakat al-Fitr be given as food, and there is no authentic narration that he or his Companions gave it in money.
2️⃣ Ensuring the Poor Have Food for Eid – The purpose of Zakat al-Fitr is not just charity but to provide food for those in need so they can enjoy Eid.
3️⃣ The Stronger Scholarly Opinion – The majority of scholars, including the four major schools of thought, hold that it must be given in food.
What Should Be Given?
✅ A staple food such as wheat, rice, dates, flour, barley, or similar items commonly consumed in one’s region.
✅ The quantity is approximately one Sa’ (about 2.5–3 kg) per person.
✅ It must be given before Eid prayer so that it reaches those in need in time.
A Reminder to Follow the Sunnah
As we seek to purify our fasts and help the poor, let us make sure to give Zakat al-Fitr correctly, as prescribed by the Prophet (ﷺ). May Allah accept it from us and grant us a blessed Eid. Ameen.
اللْهُمَّ إِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ تُحِبُّ الْعَفْوَ فَاعْفُ عَنِّي
(O Allah, You are Pardoning, You love to pardon, so pardon me.) (Sunan al-Tirmidhī 3513)