Fidyah is a compensation paid when someone cannot fast due to a permanent condition (chronic illness, old age, pregnancy). It involves feeding one poor person per missed day. Kaffarah is a penalty for deliberately breaking a fast without a valid excuse — it requires fasting 60 consecutive days or feeding 60 poor people.

Fidyah is the cost of feeding one poor person one meal per missed fast. The amount varies by location and is typically based on the average cost of a meal in your area. Most scholars estimate it at roughly $10–$15 USD per day in Western countries. Check with a local Islamic authority for the exact amount in your region.

Those exempt include the elderly who cannot fast, people with chronic or terminal illness, pregnant and breastfeeding women (if fasting harms them or the baby), travelers, and menstruating women. Temporary exemptions (travel, menstruation, acute illness) require making up the days later. Permanent exemptions require paying fidyah instead.

Yes, most scholars permit paying fidyah in advance for the entire month of Ramadan if you have a permanent condition that prevents fasting. You can pay for all 30 days at the start of the month. However, if your condition changes and you become able to fast, you should fast the remaining days instead.