Zakat al-Fitr: what is the dollar amount? I understand it is preferred to give out wheat or rice, for example, but to do so, I need to send money overseas, and it is preferred to give locally. Therefore it is hard for somebody to accept food, and they prefer cash. What is the general stance of scholars in the US on the subject?

Jazakum Allah khair.

It is preferred to keep your Zakat ul-Fitr in the U.S. because many Muslims here are in need of it. You can pay it in cash if this is more beneficial for the recipients. It would be $10 per person. May Allah accept it from you.