Alaska’s well-known Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) program has confirmed the 2025 stimulus check payment for eligible residents. This year, Alaskans will receive a $1,702 payment, which is higher than the $1,312 issued in 2024. The increase comes from the state’s economic success and its dedication to sharing natural resource revenues with its people.
If you’re an Alaskan resident, you might be wondering about your eligibility, payment details, and how this year’s dividend was determined. Here’s a complete breakdown of what you need to know.
Payment
The 2025 PFD amount was set at $1,702 per eligible resident. This figure was calculated based on the fund’s earnings reserve, which totaled $914,315,845 this year. The basic dividend per person, before additional state adjustments, was initially calculated at $1,403.83. However, the Alaska Legislature approved an increase, leading to the final $1,702 payout.
Compared to last year’s $1,312, this year’s dividend reflects a rise of nearly $400. This increase was possible due to better-than-expected oil revenues and adjustments made by state lawmakers.
Eligibility
Not all residents automatically qualify for the PFD. The state has strict requirements to ensure the funds benefit genuine Alaskans. Here are the main criteria:
- You must have lived in Alaska for the entire calendar year before applying.
- You must plan to remain in Alaska permanently.
- You must have been an Alaskan resident for at least 12 continuous months before applying.
- You cannot have applied to live in another state or country.
- You must have spent at least 72 consecutive hours in Alaska in the past 24 months.
- You must not have been convicted of a felony or served time for a serious misdemeanor in the last 12 months.
Meeting these conditions is essential to qualify for the $1,702 PFD in 2025.
Distribution
The Alaska Department of Revenue confirmed that more than 600,000 residents will receive the PFD this year. The payment will be distributed according to the state’s official schedule, with direct deposits and paper checks issued based on application approvals.
In December, Governor Mike Dunleavy initially proposed a $3,500 dividend. However, the final approved amount followed the Senate-favored 75-25 formula, which directs one-quarter of the Permanent Fund’s annual earnings to dividends and the remaining three-quarters to state services.
The Legislature made an additional adjustment, increasing the PFD by about $300 due to unexpected oil revenue gains.
Future
The PFD has always been a topic of debate in Alaska’s government. While some argue for higher dividends to support residents directly, others emphasize the need to maintain state services. The final approved amount often depends on oil revenues, legislative decisions, and budget considerations.
For now, the 2025 PFD stands at $1,702, providing financial relief to many Alaskans while keeping the state’s economy balanced.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the 2025 PFD?
Alaskan residents who meet the state’s residency and legal requirements.
How much is the 2025 Alaska PFD?
The payment is set at $1,702 per eligible resident.
When will the PFD payments be issued?
Payments will be distributed according to the state’s official schedule.
Why is the 2025 PFD higher than 2024?
Increased oil revenues and legislative adjustments raised the amount.
Can felons receive the PFD?
Felons and certain misdemeanor offenders may be ineligible.
