It is narrated from Nafi‘ that Sayyiduna Abdullah bin Umar (may Allah be pleased with them both) used to send the Sadaqat al-Fitr two or three days before Eid to the person where the Sadaqat al-Fitr used to be collected.

Imam Malik (may Allah have mercy on him) said: I have seen the people of knowledge, they considered it preferable to give out Sadaqat al-Fitr when dawn breaks, before the Eid prayer.

Imam Malik (may Allah have mercy on him) said: This matter is broad; whether one gives it before going to the prayer or after, it is permissible.