Alaska has officially confirmed the 2025 Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) payment, which will provide eligible residents with a $1,702 stimulus check. This annual payment is part of the state’s initiative to share a portion of the revenue generated from its natural resources, such as oil and gas.
Compared to last year’s payment of $1,312, this year’s increase is significant. The boost is due to Alaska’s strong economic performance, which led to a surplus in state revenues. For the 2024 payout, more than $914 million was allocated, benefiting over 600,000 residents.
The 2025 payment consists of two parts:
- $1,403.83 as the basic fund dividend
- $298.17 as an additional energy assistance payment
This extra energy assistance aims to help residents manage rising energy costs, especially during the state’s harsh winters.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the PFD payment, residents must meet strict eligibility criteria. The most important requirement is continuous residency in Alaska.
- Applicants must have lived in Alaska for the entire previous calendar year and intend to stay permanently.
- They must have resided in the state for at least 12 continuous months and not have applied to live elsewhere.
- Applicants must have spent at least 72 hours in Alaska in the last 24 months.
- Those who have been incarcerated for felonies in the past 12 months are not eligible.
- Those convicted of more than two misdemeanors since January 1, 1997, may also be ineligible.
How to Claim
Applying for the $1,702 PFD payment is a simple process.
- The application period runs from January 1 to March 31, 2025.
- Applications can be submitted online through the PFD portal at pfd.alaska.gov.
- Paper applications can be mailed to the designated PFD processing center.
Since January 1 is a holiday, online applications will open at 9:00 a.m. on that day. The portal allows residents to check their eligibility and track the status of their application.
The final deadline to submit applications is April 1, 2025. Missing this deadline means forfeiting the payment for the year.
Permanent Fund Dividend
Alaska’s PFD program is unique in the United States. Unlike other states that rely on income taxes for funding, Alaska distributes a portion of its resource-based income directly to residents. This system not only provides financial relief but also fosters a sense of shared responsibility for protecting the state’s resources.
For eligible residents, this year’s $1,702 payment is a welcome financial boost, helping them manage expenses and cope with rising living costs. If you qualify, make sure to apply before the deadline to secure your payment.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the $1,702 Alaska PFD?
Alaska residents who meet residency and legal eligibility criteria.
Why is the 2025 PFD payment higher than last year?
Alaska’s strong economy led to increased state revenues.
When is the deadline to apply for the PFD payment?
The application deadline is April 1, 2025.
How can I apply for the stimulus check?
Apply online at pfd.alaska.gov or by mailing a paper application.
What is the energy assistance payment in the PFD?
A $298.17 bonus to help with rising energy costs.
