Is it permissible to pay the expiation for delaying the making up of Ramadan fasts in money to a needy woman, if she is the one who requested the money because it is more suitable for her to buy a specific type of food, knowing that the original form of expiation is food?

The expiation for delaying the making up of Ramadan fasts is required for each day if the delay was intentional and with knowledge of its impermissibility. However, if it was due to forgetfulness or ignorance, then only making up the fasts is obligatory. The expiation (fidyah) must be food according to the majority of scholars, and its monetary value is not sufficient except for the Hanafis or if it results in a benefit for the poor. Giving the expiation in cash is disfavored but sufficient after it has occurred. It is permissible to give the expiation to a single needy person.