At what rate should the fidya and the fitra be paid?

Question

For paying the fidya (expiation) for fasting and the Eid fitra, is the market rate considered or the “control” rate (the regulated government price)? The one to whom it is intended to be given can obtain wheat at the “control” rate; in the market wheat is expensive, although if it is brought from the villages it is not generally that expensive.

Answer

Give the fitra and the fidya at the same rate at which one’s own needs are met. It is evident that nowadays general needs are not met through the “control”; therefore give at the market rate.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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