Understanding Fitrah (Zakat al-Fitr) – Meaning, Purpose, and How to Pay in 2025

Fitrah, also known as Zakat al-Fitr, is a compulsory charity due at the end of Ramadan. It serves both a spiritual and social function — purifying the fast and enabling those in need to celebrate Eid al-Fitr with dignity.

What Does “Fitrah” Mean?

The word Fitr comes from the same root as Iftar (breaking the fast) and Futoor (breakfast). Thus, Fitrah in Islam refers to the charity given after fasting during Ramadan — typically before the Eid prayer.

Is Zakat al-Fitr Obligatory?

Yes. Zakat al-Fitr is wajib (obligatory) for every Muslim who has more food than they need for the day. It must be paid before the Eid prayer, and the head of the household is responsible for paying on behalf of all dependents — including children.

How Much Is Fitrah in 2025?

For Australian Muslims, MAA recommends $17 per person for Fitrah in 2025. This amount is based on the current price of staple food items, such as rice.

While $17 is the recommended donation, giving more is encouraged if your means allow.

How Is Fitrah Calculated?

Traditionally, Fitrah is equal to one saʿ (approx. 2–3.8kg) of staple food:

• Dr. Ali Gomaa: 3.25kg
• Dr. Wahba al-Zuhayli: 3.8kg
• Other madhahib: closer to 2kg

In Australia, rice is considered the local staple for calculation. Prices are based on standard retail (not discounted) values from stores like Woolworths and Coles.

Who Must Pay Fitrah?

You must pay Fitrah if:

• You’re a Muslim
• You possess more than your daily needs on the night before Eid
• You’re paying on behalf of yourself and your dependents (children, spouse, etc.)

When to Pay Fitrah?

• Start time: After sunset on the last day of Ramadan
• Deadline: Before the Eid prayer (morning of Eid)
• It is recommended to pay a few days before Eid, as the Companions of the Prophet ﷺ used to do

Delaying beyond the Eid prayer without a valid excuse is not permissible and incurs sin.

Spiritual Purpose of Fitrah in Islam

Fitrah is both a purification for the fasting person and a source of joy for the poor.

“The Prophet ﷺ made Zakat al-Fitr compulsory so those who fasted may be purified of idle deeds and so the poor may be fed.”
(Abu Dawood 2:421)

Fitrah builds:

• Gratitude to Allah
• Compassion toward the less fortunate
• Brotherhood and sisterhood across economic lines
• Circulation of wealth and shared celebration of Eid

Can Fitrah Be Paid in Cash?

Yes. Most scholars permit paying Fitrah in cash if it’s more beneficial to the recipient. In today’s context, cash enables easier distribution and purchasing of relevant goods.

If you’re financially able, consider giving more than the minimum, especially in wealthier regions like Australia.

Who Can Receive Fitrah?

The recipients of Zakat al-Fitr are the same as those of regular Zakat:

• The poor (fuqara’)
• The destitute (masakeen)
• Zakat workers and distributors
• New Muslims (mu’allaf)
• People in debt
• Stranded travellers

Fitrah should be given to Muslims only, and preferably in your local area or to those most in need globally.

How to Pay Fitrah with MAA

MAA International ensures your Zakat al-Fitr donation reaches verified recipients before Eid. You can:

• Pay online in under 2 minutes

• Give on behalf of multiple family members

• Use your zakat or sadaqah funds as applicable