Zakat al-Fitr must be paid before `Eid Salah. According to the fuqaha (jurists), it is permitted to pay it in advance during Ramadan. We learn from the traditions that the Prophet (peace be upon him) used to accept Zakah from his uncle `Abbas in advance before it was due; there is no reason why this rule should not be extended to Zakat al-Fitr.

 

Following this rule would help the poor prepare for the `Eid; it would also facilitate the distribution of Zakah to the needy in time for `Eid if we choose to send it overseas.

 

Delaying Zakat al-Fitr till after the Salah is not at all recommended. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “If someone pays it before `Eid Salah, his charity will be considered Zakah. If someone pays it after the Salah, it is reckoned only as a regular form of charity.” (Abu Dawud on the authority of `Abd Allah ibn `Abbas)

 

Almighty Allah knows best.