Who has to make up missed fasts?
Anyone who missed Ramadan fasts for a valid excuse that is expected to end, such as a passing illness, travel, or menstruation and post-natal bleeding, must make up each day with another day. The days don’t have to be made up in order, and they can be fasted separately or consecutively.
When should they be made up?
- Before the next Ramadan: the majority of scholars hold that missed days should be made up before the following Ramadan, if possible.
- Delayed with an excuse: someone whose excuse continued (such as ongoing illness) is not sinful, and makes up the days when able.
- Delayed without an excuse: many scholars hold that the person must make up the days and also feed a poor person for each day. This has details worth asking a scholar about.
Make-up fasts vs fidyah
Qada (making up) means fasting one day for each day missed, and applies to anyone able to fast later. Fidyah means feeding one poor person for each day, and replaces making up only for someone who can never fast, such as a person with a chronic illness or an elderly person unable to fast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do make-up fasts have to be in order or consecutive?
No. The majority of scholars do not require any order or continuity; you can fast them separately or in a row, as suits you.
What if I don’t remember exactly how many days I missed?
Make your most careful honest estimate and act on what you believe most likely, leaning towards caution. The principle is ease combined with sincere effort.
Can someone fast on my behalf if I die before making up the days?
This has scholarly detail. For someone who died with missed fasts, it is recommended for their closest relative to fast for them, or to feed on their behalf, depending on the scholars’ view of the case. Please ask a trusted mufti about the specific situation.