Please can you advise me on fasting/fidya if you are unable to keep fast because of medical condition.

I have to take medication for high blood pressure,enlarged heart, diabetes and water retention 3 times a day. So far Alhamdolillah,I have been able to complete full month’s fasts. However, as the days are getting longer I am finding it harder to keep them as I cannot take my medication on time.

My questions are.
1) Do I keep as many fast as I can and pay Fidya for those I cannot keep, OR make up the fasts,(I missed),later on when I can?

2) What is the current price I have to pay per fast in Fidya?

In the name of Allah, Most Compassionate, Most Merciful, 

Answer

Individuals who are exempted from fasting in the month of Ramadhan are required to make the fast up later without making the compensatory payment. (Raddul Muhtar, Vol 2, P127)

However if the illness is of such a nature or the illness has reached such a state that recovery is unlikely for such a period of time in which the person can make up the fast then the individual may pay compensation. (Raddul Muhtar, Vol 2, P130)

In your situation if you are unable to fast in the days of Ramadhan then you should, if possible, fast in the shorter days rather than pay compensation. However if you are unable to keep fast even in those days and you are not likely to recover from the illness then you may pay compensation.

The compensation for each days fast is the same as Sadaqatul Fitr, which is 1.6 kg of wheat or its market related value. (Hidaya, Vol1, P210) Currently priced approximately in between £2.50 to £3.00.

Only Allah knows best.

Sayeedur Rahman

Darul Ifta, Birmingham