What Is Fitrana (Zakat al-Fitr)?
Fitrana, also called Zakat al-Fitr, is an obligatory charity that every Muslim must pay during the month of Ramadan before the Eid‑ul‑Fitr prayer. It serves two main purposes: to purify the fasting person from indecent speech or actions and to provide food for the needy so they can celebrate Eid with dignity.
Why Do I Need to Pay Fitrana?
Fitrana is a religious duty for all Muslims who possess food in excess of their basic needs during Ramadan. It is distinct from the annual Zakat (Zakat al‑Maal) because it is specifically tied to the end of Ramadan and is due for each member of the household, regardless of age.
How Much Is Fitrana 2026?
The amount of Fitrana is traditionally based on the value of one sa’ of staple food — historically dates, barley, wheat or similar. In modern practice, this value is often translated into a monetary amount to make payment easier.
Typical 2026 Estimates:
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UK: Approximately £5 per person (minimum rate used by many charities)
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Amounts can vary by region based on local food prices — for example, amounts used in other countries may equate to higher or lower values.You must pay Fitrana for:
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Yourself (if you’re an adult Muslim with surplus food)
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All dependents in your care — including children and babies
The head of household typically pays on behalf of children and dependents.
When Should I Pay Fitrana 2026?
The obligation must be met before the Eid prayer on the day of Eid‑ul‑Fitr. In 2026, Eid is expected to fall around March 20–21, 2026 depending on the moon sighting. Fitrana should ideally be paid a few days before Eid so recipients can receive it in time.
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Best practice: Pay 1–2 days before Eid so distribution to the needy can be arranged.
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Latest: Before the Eid prayer — after this time, payments count only as voluntary charity (sadaqah), not obligatory Fitrana.
How to Pay My Fitrana
You can pay Fitrana in several ways:
Through Mosques or Local Amils
Many local mosques collect Fitrana donations during Ramadan. You can hand cash directly or through charity boxes in mosques.
Online Through Charities
Many Muslim charities allow you to pay your Fitrana online, which they then distribute to those in need on your behalf. This method is especially useful if you cannot donate food directly.
Examples of services that provide online Fitrana payment include:
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Charity organizations that collect Fitrana online
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Ramadan giving platforms with dedicated Fitrana donation pages
(Always ensure the charity is trustworthy before donating.)
Direct to Needy Individuals
If you know of eligible needy people locally, you can give your Fitrana directly to them before Eid prayer.
What Happens If I Pay Late?
If Fitrana is given after the Eid prayer, it doesn’t fulfill the obligatory duty. It becomes sadaqah (voluntary charity) — still rewarding, but not obligatory Fitrana.
Fitrana Vs Other Islamic Obligations
| Aspect | Fitrana (Zakat al-Fitr) | Zakat al-Maal |
|---|---|---|
| Obligation timing | End of Ramadan only | Year‑round (once per year) |
| Purpose | Purify the fast; feed the needy at Eid | Purify wealth; support eligible recipients |
| Amount | Fixed standard per person | 2.5% of accumulated wealth |
| Who pays? | Every Muslim with surplus food | Muslims above Nisab threshold |
(Fitrana is separate and specific to Ramadan and Eid.)
Conclusion
Paying your Fitrana 2026 is an important part of Ramadan and preparing for Eid.
To fulfil this obligation:
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Calculate the total amount (per person × number in household).
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Pay before the Eid prayer — ideally a couple of days early.
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Use trusted channels like local mosques or reputable charities.