Pidyon Kaparos-Donating the chicken or its worth to the poor:[1]
It is customary to donate the chicken to paupers. Nevertheless, it is better to redeem the chicken with money and give the money to the poor, as opposed to giving the actual chicken to the poor.[2] [This money is formally known as Pidyon Kaparos.]
___________________________________________________________________[1] 605:4; Rama 605:1; Maharil
[2] The reason: This is done in order to prevent the paupers from facing the embarrassment of receiving the chickens which were taken for atonement. [ibid]
Question:
How much money should I give for Pidyon Kaparos if I’m not using a chicken?[1]
Answer:
The custom is to redeem the Kaparos chicken with money and donate that amount to the poor. While there is no fixed sum, many follow the practice of giving the equivalent value of a chicken—typically around $18 per person. Some give more generously, especially if they are able. The key is that the money should be given with the intention of fulfilling the mitzvah of tzedakah through Pidyon Kaparos.
[1] Admur 605:4; Rama 605:1; Maharil
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