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Fasting during Ramadan is one of the most cherished acts of worship for Muslims around the world. It is a time for spiritual reflection, increased devotion, and striving to grow closer to Allah. But sometimes, a fast may be broken before sunset, intentionally or unintentionally. The question then arises: what does Islam say about this? And in cases where a fast is broken intentionally without a valid reason, what is the expiation or compensation that must be offered?
In Islamic law, the concepts of Kaffarah and Fidyah address these situations. These rulings are grounded in the Qur’an and authentic tradition (Sunnah), and they offer both structure and mercy for those seeking to fulfil their duties correctly.
This blog explains what Kaffarah and Fidyah mean, when each is required, how much is due for breaking a fast early, and how Muslims in the UK can calculate and pay these dues.
Let’s begin with the basics.
In Arabic, Kaffarah (expiation) refers to a prescribed act of compensation or atonement for a major lapse in fulfilling an obligation. It goes beyond the normal makeup fast (qadha) and is specifically required when a fast is broken intentionally without a valid Islamic excuse.
Fidyah, on the other hand, refers to compensation owed when someone misses a fast for a legitimate reason but is unable to make it up later, such as due to chronic illness, old age, pregnancy or other lasting hardship. It takes the form of feeding a needy person for each missed day.
Both rulings come from the broader framework of Islamic law on fasting during Ramadan, which is commanded in the Qur’an:
“˹Fast a prescribed number of days. But whoever of you is ill or on a journey, then let them fast an equal number of days after Ramaḍan. For those who can only fast with extreme difficulty, compensation can be made by feeding a needy person for every day not fasted. But whoever volunteers to give more, it is better for them. And to fast is better for you, if only you knew.”
(Qur’an 2:185)
This passage establishes fasting as an obligation, but also shows that there are allowances and compensations for those unable to fast or who break fasts under certain circumstances.
Islam draws a clear line between breaking a fast due to a valid reason and breaking it intentionally without excuse.
If someone forgets they are fasting or breaks the fast unintentionally, there is no kaffarah due; they simply continue their fast or make up the day later (qadha). But if someone deliberately breaks their fast without a valid excuse, then Kaffarah becomes mandatory.
According to Islamic scholars, a break is considered deliberate when:
a. A person is fully aware they are fasting
b. They know that the act they intend to do will invalidate the fast
c. They choose to do it anyway
This could include eating or drinking on purpose during daylight hours of Ramadan while knowing it will break the fast. Intent matters. Eating or drinking accidentally, or because of forgetfulness, does not require kaffarah.
In some circumstances, a fast may be broken early for a valid reason such as sudden severe illness, pregnancy, travel hardship, or other hardship. In such cases, no kaffarah is due, though the fast must be made up later (qadha) and, if one cannot make up the fasts later due to permanent incapacity, fidyah is owed instead.
If Kaffarah is required for deliberately breaking a fast in Ramadan, then the person must either (hadith reference Sahih al-Bukhari 1937):
This is the primary form of expiation for intentionally violating a fast. The 60 fasts must be continuous, with no breaks, and observed outside of Ramadan. If one misses a day during the 60, the count must start again from the beginning. This shows steadfastness, sincere repentance, and dedication.
If the person is unable to fast for physical reasons (for example, illness, pregnancy, or weakness), then the alternative is to feed sixty needy people for each day of intentionally broken fasts. The food offered should be of decent quality and adequate quantity to genuinely nourish the recipient. This is an act of mercy that serves both the person offering Kaffarah and those in need.
Fidyah is different from kaffarah. It applies when someone misses or breaks a fast for a valid reason and is unable to make up the fast later. Examples include:
a. Long‑term illness
b. Chronic health conditions
c. Old age
d. Pregnancy or breastfeeding where fasting would cause harm
In these cases, the person must feed one needy person for every missed fast day. This compensation is only applicable when the person genuinely cannot make up the fast later. If they can make up the fast after Ramadan, then they should do so and no fidyah is paid.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) guided that fidyah should be given for each missed fast. Traditionally, it is measured using a sa‘, an old Islamic measure (about four double handfuls, or mudd).
Hanafi school: Half a sa‘ of staple food (roughly 1.75–2.3 kg) per day
Shafi‘i, Maliki, and Hanbali schools: One full sa‘ per day
If giving food directly is difficult, the monetary equivalent can be paid to ensure someone in need receives the same benefit.
When it comes to the UK context, the cost is calculated based on feeding two meals to the needy for each person:
Fidyah amounts to feeding one needy person two meals for each missed fast. Many organisations use a rate based on current meal costs in the UK, often around £4 – £7 per missed fast day, though this can vary year to year.
Kaffarah is the cost of feeding sixty people two meals, so it is typically 60 times the fidyah amount. Depending on the organisation and the exact rate they use, a single Kaffarah for one broken fast might be £300‑£420 or more in the UK.
It’s important to check with your local mosque or charitable organisation for the current fidyah and kaffarah rates each Ramadan, as prices can change based on the local cost of staple foods and meals.
Many UK charities also provide online kaffarah calculators, which let you input the number of broken fasts and receive an up‑to‑date amount to pay. These tools make it easier to fulfil your obligation accurately and responsibly.
The mercy of Islam is evident in how it balances obligation with compassion and practicality. While fasting in Ramadan is a profound act of worship, Islam recognises that human beings are fallible and life brings unexpected challenges. The rulings of kaffarah and fidyah offer structured guidance so that, even when mistakes are made, we can make amends, help others, and maintain spiritual integrity.
Whether you are based in the UK or elsewhere, seeking clarity and acting with sincerity will help you fulfil your religious responsibilities with confidence and peace.
If you’re ever uncertain about your situation, talk to a qualified imam or local Islamic scholar who can provide personalised guidance based on your circumstances.
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