Zakat al-Fitr
زكاة الفطر
Pronunciation: zah-KAHT al-FIT-r
A special charitable contribution required at the end of Ramadan, paid per person in the household.
Definition
A special charitable contribution required at the end of Ramadan, before Eid al-Fitr prayers. Unlike regular Zakat (which is wealth-based and annual), Zakat al-Fitr is a fixed amount per person in the household — typically the cost of one meal or approximately $10–$15 per person in the U.S. It must be paid before the Eid prayer to count.
The head of household pays for themselves and all dependents. Its purpose is to purify the fasting person from any idle talk or indecent behavior during Ramadan and to ensure the poor can celebrate Eid with dignity.
Related Terms
Zakatزكاة
One of the Five Pillars of Islam — an obligatory annual 2.5% charitable contribution on qualifying wealth.
Nisabنصاب
The minimum wealth threshold above which zakat becomes obligatory — equivalent to 85 grams of gold or 595 grams of silver.
Sadaqahصدقة
Voluntary charitable giving — distinct from obligatory zakat.
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Quick Answer
Zakat al-Fitr (زكاة الفطر) — A special charitable contribution required at the end of Ramadan, paid per person in the household. A special charitable contribution required at the end of Ramadan, before Eid al-Fitr prayers. Unlike regular Zakat (which is wealth-based and annual), Zakat al-Fitr is a fixed amount per person in the household — typically the cost of one meal or approximately $10–$15 per person in the U.S.
Key Takeaways
- A special charitable contribution required at the end of Ramadan, paid per person in the household.
- Category: Zakat
- Related: Zakat, Nisab, Sadaqah
- Compare related Shariah-compliant products on HalalWallet
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Last reviewed: 2026-03-06
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