Watching a parent grow older changes many things, including Ramadan. The mother who once woke the whole family for suhoor may now be told by her doctor not to fast. The father who never missed a fast may simply no longer have the strength. In this situation, Islam does not leave them burdened. Instead, they pay Fidya for missed fasts, and as their child you can help them fulfil it. This guide explains how Fidya for elderly parents works, how much it costs, and how to pay it on their behalf.
Does My Elderly Parent Need to Pay Fidya?
Fidya is for a Muslim who cannot fast for a valid reason and is not expected to ever make the fasts up. Old age is one of the clearest examples. The Qur'an gives this concession in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:184): those who can fast only with severe hardship may feed a poor person for each day instead.
Your parent likely owes Fidya if:
- Fasting has become physically too difficult because of old age and weakness.
- A doctor has advised them not to fast because of a long-term health condition that is not expected to improve.
- They are frail, on regular medication with meals, or at risk of dehydration or dizziness when fasting.
If your parent missed fasts only because of a temporary illness or a hospital stay and later recovers, they should make up those days (qada) instead. For a detailed breakdown, read Who Must Pay Fidya?
What If My Parent Has Dementia or Memory Loss?
This is a common and sensitive question. According to the majority of scholars, a person who has lost mental capacity (for example, advanced dementia) is no longer legally responsible for fasting, so Fidya is not obligatory for those days. Many families still choose to feed the needy in their parent's name as voluntary sadaqah, which is a beautiful act of kindness. Because cases differ, ask a trusted scholar about your parent's specific condition.
Can I Pay Fidya on Behalf of My Parents?
Yes. In Islam, appointing someone to feed the poor on your behalf (wakalah) is permitted. A son or daughter can pay Fidya for an elderly parent with the parent's knowledge and agreement. You can pay from your own money as a gift to them; there is no need for your parent to transfer the amount first.
Paying a parent's Fidya is also a form of birr al-walidayn, honouring and serving one's parents. It removes a worry from their heart in their later years and feeds people in need at the same time.
What If a Parent Has Passed Away With Fidya Unpaid?
If a parent passed away while owing Fidya and left instructions for it, it should be paid from their estate (within one-third of the wealth). If they left no instruction, children and relatives may still pay it voluntarily, and scholars hope it is accepted and benefits the deceased. Many families do this out of love, often alongside other charity in their parent's name.
How Much Fidya Do I Pay for Elderly Parents?
Fidya equals the cost of feeding one needy person for each missed fast. In 2026, most U.S. Islamic organisations set it between $10 and $15 per fast. At MakkahZabiha, Fidya is $10 per fast, sold in packages that feed 6 people.
| Fasts missed | Packages needed | Total |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 1 | $60 |
| 12 | 2 | $120 |
| 30 (full Ramadan) | 5 | $300 |
| 30 each for two parents | 10 | $600 |
For a step-by-step calculation, see How to Calculate Your Fidya Payment.
How to Pay Fidya for Your Parents in Makkah
Many children living abroad cannot take their parents to Umrah anymore. Paying their Fidya in Makkah Al-Mukarramah lets the blessings of the Holy City reach them at home.
- Count the missed fasts for each parent separately.
- Choose your quantity on our Fidya in Makkah — Feed 6 People package (one package covers 6 fasts).
- Add your parent's name in the order notes so the Fidya is made in their name.
- Our team in Makkah feeds the needy on your parent's behalf, according to Islamic guidelines.
- You receive confirmation by WhatsApp and email, which you can share with your parent.
Curious how the meals reach people? Read How Your Fidya Is Distributed in Makkah.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay Fidya for both parents in one order?
Yes. Increase the quantity to cover both, and write both names with the number of fasts for each in the order notes.
Should I pay Fidya before or after Ramadan?
Either is valid. Many families pay at the start of Ramadan so the needy are fed during the blessed month, once it is clear their parent cannot fast.
Is Fidya the same as Kaffarah?
No. Kaffarah is for a fast broken deliberately and is much heavier. See Fidya vs Kaffara: What's the Difference?
Honour Your Parents With Their Fidya
Your parents carried you through every stage of life. Now you can carry this obligation for them. Pay Fidya for your elderly parents in Makkah today, and let them know their Ramadan duty has been fulfilled in the Holy City.
This article is general guidance. For rulings on your family's specific situation, please consult a qualified scholar.