Can I receive Zakaat? How should I Fast?

Asalaam wa Alaikum

I have a chronic disease named sickle cell disease which is incurable scientifically I would like to know does this qualify me for Zakaat and how do fast during Ramadhan jazakaAllah.

Wa Alaikum Assalaam,

الجواب و بالله التوفيق

If you are in a state where you need assistance and you cannot do anything to earn a livelihood, then you can accept Zakaat.

If, on account of this disease, you cannot observe the fast, nor do you expect to have the health and strength in the future to keep the fast, then you may avoid observing the fast and pay fidya for each day missed.

If you are not financially able to pay fidya for missing the fast, then you will be absolved from this.

And Allah Knows Best.

Mufti Waseem Khan.

29/9/16