Zakat al-Fitr 2026: Amount, Rules, and When to Pay

How Much Is Zakat al-Fitr in 2026?

Zakat al-Fitr is one sa’ (approximately 2.5-3 kg) of staple food per person, or its cash equivalent of $12-15 in the US. Every Muslim who has food beyond their Eid day needs must pay it for themselves and each dependent. For a family of four, this means approximately $48-60 total.

The amount is based on the local price of staple food (wheat, rice, barley, or dates). Check with your local mosque or use our Zakat calculator for current amounts.

Who Must Pay Zakat al-Fitr?

Every Muslim with food exceeding their needs on Eid day must pay Zakat al-Fitr. The head of household pays for all dependents: spouse, children (including newborns born before Eid), and elderly parents under their care. Unlike regular zakat which requires a minimum wealth threshold (nisab), Zakat al-Fitr applies to nearly everyone.

When Must I Pay Zakat al-Fitr?

The deadline is before the Eid al-Fitr prayer on Eid day (March 20-21, 2026). The preferred time is between Fajr and the Eid prayer. Most scholars allow paying it 1-2 days before Eid. The Hanafi school permits paying it any time during Ramadan.

If you pay after the Eid prayer, it counts as regular charity (sadaqah) and does not fulfill the Zakat al-Fitr obligation. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever pays it before the prayer, it is accepted Zakat al-Fitr. Whoever pays it after the prayer, it is regular charity” (Abu Dawud).

What Is the Difference Between Zakat and Zakat al-Fitr?

	Zakat	Zakat al-Fitr
Amount	2.5% of qualifying wealth	Flat rate per person (~$15)
Who pays	Those above nisab threshold	Nearly every Muslim
When	Any time, annually	End of Ramadan, before Eid prayer
Purpose	Purifies wealth	Purifies the fast, feeds the poor on Eid
Based on	Accumulated savings	Having enough food for Eid day

Use our Zakat calculator to determine your annual Zakat obligation separately.

Who Receives Zakat al-Fitr?

Zakat al-Fitr goes to the poor and needy so they can celebrate Eid without worrying about food. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Enrich them on this day” (Bayhaqi). Most scholars direct it to the same 8 categories of Zakat recipients mentioned in the Quran (9:60), with priority given to local poor.

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Related Guides

• Zakat Calculator — Calculate your annual Zakat accurately
• Eid Dates 2026 — When is Eid al-Fitr this year
• Ramadan 2026 FAQ — All your Ramadan questions answered
• Fasting Times 2026 — Suhoor and iftar schedule

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Last updated: February 10, 2026