As Ramadan 2025 approaches, the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety has officially announced the Zakat Nisab, setting the threshold for automatic zakat deductions on bank accounts.
According to the latest notification, Zakat will be deducted from savings accounts that have a balance of Rs179,689 or more on the first day of Ramadan, expected to fall on March 1 or 2, 2025. However, current accounts are exempt from Zakat deductions.
Who Will Be Affected by the Zakat Deduction?
- If you have a savings account with a balance of Rs179,689 or more, Zakat will be deducted automatically.
- If your balance is below Rs179,689, no deduction will be made.
- Current accounts are not subject to Zakat deductions.
This decision aligns with the Zakat and Ushr Ordinance of 1980, which regulates the collection and distribution of Zakat in Pakistan. The deducted funds are used for welfare programs, assisting low-income families, widows, orphans, and those in need.
Fitrana and Roza Fidya Guidelines for 2025
In addition to Zakat deductions, the Chairman of the Islamic Ideological Council, Dr. Raghib Hussain Naeemi, has provided guidance on Fitrana and Fidya payments for Ramadan 2025.
Fitrana (Sadqa-e-Fitr) – Minimum Payment Amounts
Fitrana is an obligatory charity that must be given before Eid-ul-Fitr, allowing those in need to celebrate the occasion. The amount varies based on the staple food chosen:
- Wheat-based Fitrana → Rs220 per person
- Barley-based Fitrana → Rs660 per person
- Dates-based Fitrana → Rs1,650 per person
- Raisins-based Fitrana → Rs2,500 per person
- Dried Apricots-based Fitrana → Rs5,000 per person
Families using subsidized wheat flour can pay a minimum of Rs160 per person.
Fidya (Compensation for Missed Fasts)
For those unable to fast due to health conditions or other valid reasons, Fidya must be paid for each missed fast. The Fidya amount for 30 days of fasting is calculated as follows:
- Wheat → Rs6,600
- Barley → Rs13,500
- Dates → Rs49,500
- Raisins → Rs75,000
- Dried Apricots → Rs150,000
Kaffara (Penalty for Breaking a Fast Deliberately)
If someone deliberately breaks a fast without a valid reason, Kaffara must be paid. This involves either:
- Fasting for 60 consecutive days
OR - Feeding 60 needy individuals two meals each
Why Are These Payments Important?
The payments of Zakat, Fitrana, and Fidya hold immense significance in Islamic teachings, ensuring that the less fortunate are supported during Ramadan and Eid celebrations.
For those eligible to pay, it is recommended to make these contributions as early as possible to allow timely distribution to those in need.
Stay updated with the latest Ramadan guidelines and Islamic financial rulings by visiting Brides & You.