THE ZAKATUL FITR

1. What is the Zakatul Fitr?

Zakatul Fitr means the purifying dues given on ending the fasts of Ramadhan. It is a charity given as an act of purification.

2. On whom Zakatul Fitr is binding?

Zakatul Fitr is binding on each and every Muslim who possesses more than he needs.

3. What is the difference between Zakah and Zakatul Fitr?

ZAKAH:                                                           

* Zakah is one of the five pillars of Islam. 
* Zakah can be given any time of the year   
* Zakah is obligatory only on rich Muslims    
* Zakah is levied on cash and kind.                

ZAKATUL FITR: 
* It is not one of the five pillars of Islam

* It must be given on the day of Id-ul-Fitr or a day or two before the day of Id
* Zakatul Fitr is obligatory on every Muslim who possesses more than he needs.
* Zakatul Fitr is levied on individuals.

4. What is the main aim of Zakatul Fitr?

The main aim is to allow the poor and the needy enjoy the Id-ul- Fitr.

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5. What does Zakatul Fitr purify?

It purifies the fasters of their errors, mistakes and short comings that happened in the month of Ramadhan. 

It helps to perfect the fast, because good deeds drive evil deeds.

6. Who are entitled to receive the Zakatul Fitr? When should it be paid?

Eight categories of people are entitled to receive the Zakatul Fitr:

            1. The poor (Fuqara)

            2. The needy (Masakeen)

            3. Those employed to collect the fund

            4. those who have been inclined towards Islam

            5. to free the captives

            6. those in debt 

            7. those fighting in the cause of Allah, and

            8. the wayfarer or traveller.

It should be paid either a couple of days before Id-ul-Fitr or on the day of Id-ul-Fitr but before offering the Salatul Id-ul-Fitr.