The Ruling on Delaying the Missed Fasts of Ramadan Until the Next Ramadan

Question:

What is the ruling on someone who did not fast for two days in Ramadan and delayed making them up until the arrival of the next Ramadan?


Answer:

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, and may peace and blessings be upon the Messenger of Allah, his family, companions, and those who follow his guidance.


If someone misses fasting in Ramadan, they are required to make up the missed fasts before the next Ramadan. The period between the two Ramadans allows flexibility, as granted by our Lord. If the person makes up the fasts in Shawwal, Dhu al-Qa’dah, Dhu al-Hijjah, Muharram, or any time up to Sha’ban, they fulfill their obligation.


However, if they delay making up the missed fasts until the next Ramadan arrives, they are still required to fast the missed days. Additionally, they must feed a poor person for each missed day as compensation. This ruling is based on the opinion of a group of the Prophet’s (peace be upon him) companions. The required feeding is half a sa’ (approximately 1.5 kg) of the staple food of the land, such as dates, rice, or any other staple food.


On the other hand, if the person makes up the fasts before the arrival of the next Ramadan, then no expiation (feeding the poor) is required—only the missed fasting days must be completed.