“He has certainly succeeded who purifies himself and mentions the name of his Lord and prays.”
(Qur’an 87:14-15)
Zakat Al-Fitr
(For the Fort Wayne Muslim Community)
What is Zakat Al-Fitr?
Zakat Al-Fitr is an obligatory charity that Muslims give at the end of Ramadan to support those who are less fortunate.
Purpose of Zakat Al-Fitr
The purpose of Zakat Al-Fitr is to help those in need fulfill their basic needs on Eid so they can participate in the celebration.
It was narrated from Ibn ʿUmar (reported by Ibn ʿAdi and Ad-Daraqutni) that the purpose is:
“To save them (the poor) from wandering around on that day asking for food.”
Who Must Pay Zakat Al-Fitr?
Zakat Al-Fitr is obligatory upon every Muslim who possesses at least one Sa’ of food beyond what is needed for themselves and their family for the day and night of Eid.
The head of household must pay on behalf of:
Himself or herself
Spouse
Children
Dependents
Newborn babies
Amount of Zakat Al-Fitr
The amount of Zakat Al-Fitr is one Sa’ (approximately 5 pounds) of staple food such as:
Wheat
Barley
Rice
Flour
Dates
In the United States, the estimated equivalent is approximately $15 per person
Reference: Fiqh Council of North America
When Should Zakat Al-Fitr Be Paid?
Zakat Al-Fitr may be paid any time during the month of Ramadan, but it must be paid before the Eid prayer.
We strongly encourage paying it as early as possible so that organizations can distribute it before Eid, allowing recipients to prepare for their Eid needs.
Who Qualifies to Receive Zakat Al-Fitr?
Zakat Al-Fitr may be given to:
Individuals or families who do not have income or whose income is insufficient for their basic needs.
Those who are in debt and are unable to repay their immediate obligations.
New Muslims who need support and assistance from the community.
Individuals who have basic livelihood but cannot afford their Eid necessities.
🚨 Important Note ⚠️
It is haram (forbidden) to take money from Zakat Al-Mal or Zakat Al-Fitr if you do not qualify as a recipient.
Need Assistance?
If you or someone you know. is in need of assistance, please reach out to any local Masjid, Imam, or Board Member and leave your contact information
Prepared by:
Imam Hamzah Sharif
Imam Hashem Awayesha