As the blessed month of Ramadan approaches, many Muslims wonder about the religious rulings regarding fidyah—the compensation paid by those who cannot fast due to a permanent excuse.
A common question is: Can fidyah be given before Ramadan begins?
This reflects the sincere desire of Muslims to fulfill their religious duties correctly and have their deeds accepted by Allah Almighty.
In this article, we present the opinions of Islamic scholars and religious evidence on this matter to clarify the ruling on giving fidyah before Ramadan starts.
Fidyah is obligatory for those who are permanently unable to fast, such as elderly people or patients with chronic illnesses.
However, scholars have different opinions regarding whether it is permissible to give fidyah before the start of Ramadan.
According to the Shafi‘i school, it is not permissible to give fidyah before Ramadan begins.
The reason is that the obligation of fidyah only arises after the month starts, once the inability to fast becomes certain.
Imam Al-Nawawi said:
“Our scholars unanimously agree that it is not permissible for the elderly who cannot fast, or the chronically ill with no hope of recovery, to pay fidyah before the start of Ramadan.”
The Hanafi scholars allow giving fidyah at the beginning of Ramadan for all the days of the month.
They argue that since the cause (the inability to fast) exists and the month has begun, the fidyah can be paid at any time.
Ibn ‘Abidin stated:
“One may pay the fidyah either at the beginning or the end of Ramadan—it is permissible in both cases.”
Based on the scholarly consensus, it is not permissible to give fidyah before Ramadan begins.
However, after the month starts, it may be given daily or all at once at any time during the month.
It is recommended to consult local scholars in your country to follow the ruling practiced in your community.
