What is the ruling on paying zakat al-fitr in cash

The questioner : Peace be upon you.

The Shaykh : Peace be upon you and Allah's mercy.

The questioner : In the name of Allah, regarding a question, Honorable Shaykh, about my question concerning zakat al-fitr. Hmm? About zakat al-fitr. Yes, indeed. I have been accustomed, throughout the past years, to paying it in cash. Yes. Because wheat and barley are not available in the markets in my country, Egypt. Yes, indeed. And because I know the people’s need for cash amounts that help them buy clothes or whatever food they choose,

The Shaykh : Yes.

The questioner : What is the ruling on that.

The Shaykh : Yes, as for what has passed, there is no blame on you for it.

The questioner : May Allah reward you with every good.

The Shaykh : And as for the future, do not pay it except in food. Food. Yes.

The questioner : May Allah bless you. May Allah welcome you.

The Shaykh : May Allah welcome you.