In 2025, eligible residents of Alaska can expect a $1,702 stimulus check, thanks to the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD). This annual payout is not part of a temporary federal relief effort, but rather a longstanding state program funded by Alaska’s oil and gas revenues. While not every Alaskan qualifies automatically, the application process is straightforward—if you know what to look for.
Whether you’re a lifelong resident or recently moved to Alaska, understanding how the PFD works can help ensure you receive your share this year.
What Is the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend?
The Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) is a yearly cash payment provided to eligible Alaskan residents. It reflects a share of the state’s oil and gas wealth that’s set aside for public benefit. For 2025, each approved applicant is expected to receive $1,702. While many refer to it as a “stimulus,” it’s better described as a state-backed dividend funded by resource earnings rather than federal emergency support.
Alaska’s Oil Wealth: A Payout to the People
The Alaska Permanent Fund was created in 1976 to reserve a portion of the state’s oil profits for future generations. Beginning in 1982, the state started issuing annual PFD checks to qualifying residents. The exact amount fluctuates each year based on the fund’s investment earnings and the number of applicants.
The program’s goal is clear: ensure that Alaskans—not just corporations—benefit from the state’s natural resources.
Why the PFD Matters to Alaskans
The PFD is more than just a bonus—it plays a vital role in the state’s economy. Many families use it to cover essential expenses such as heating, groceries, and school supplies. In remote areas where jobs and services are limited, this check can act as a financial lifeline, reducing poverty and offering some measure of economic stability.
2025 PFD Details at a Glance
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | $1,702 per eligible resident |
| Application Window | January 1 – August 31, 2025 |
| Expected Payment Date | October 2025 |
| Income Limit | Reduced eligibility above $80,000 (single) |
| Tax Requirement | PFD is taxable income |
| Where to Apply | Alaska Permanent Fund Division website |
Who Is Eligible for the 2025 Alaska PFD?
To receive the 2025 PFD payment, you must meet specific eligibility criteria set by the state:
Full-Year Residency Required
Applicants must have lived in Alaska for the entire calendar year (2024). If you moved into the state during 2024, you will not be eligible for the 2025 payout.
Limited Time Spent Outside Alaska
You must not have been out of the state for more than 180 days in 2024, unless the absence qualifies under exemptions such as military deployment, full-time education, or medical treatment.
No Felony Convictions
Individuals who were convicted of a felony during the qualifying year (2024) are disqualified from receiving the payment.
Income-Based Reductions
While the PFD does not impose a hard income cap, single applicants earning over $80,000 and joint filers above $160,000 may see reduced eligibility, depending on annual guidelines.
Dependents Also Qualify
Each qualifying child or dependent is also eligible for a separate $1,702 payment, which can greatly benefit larger families.
How to Apply for the Alaska PFD in 2025
The application process is digital-first and user-friendly, but timing is crucial. Here’s how to apply:
Step 1: Check Eligibility and Requirements
Visit the official Alaska Permanent Fund Division website to review all documentation and eligibility criteria.
Step 2: Prepare Necessary Documents
You will need your Alaska residency proof, Social Security number, and documents for any dependents you are including.
Step 3: Submit the Application Online
Most applicants choose to apply online, which is faster and easier than submitting a paper form.
Step 4: Wait for Approval
After your application is processed and approved, the payment will be issued via direct deposit or mailed check in October 2025.
Step 5: Report It on Federal Taxes
Even though Alaska does not charge a state income tax, the PFD is considered taxable income on your federal return.
What If Your Application Gets Denied?
Application denials do happen—but often due to easily correctable errors, such as missing paperwork or questions around residency. Here’s what to do:
- Contact the Alaska Permanent Fund Division
- Submit supporting documents that prove your eligibility
- File your appeal before the final review deadline
By promptly responding, many denied applicants are able to successfully reverse the decision.
Debates Over the Use of Oil Revenue
The PFD has always been a subject of political and financial debate. Some lawmakers argue that the state’s oil revenue should be redirected toward essential services such as healthcare, education, or infrastructure. Others insist that the annual dividend is a necessary way to distribute state wealth fairly, especially to those in economically disadvantaged regions.
Given the fluctuations in oil prices and fund earnings, future PFD amounts remain uncertain. However, as of now, the 2025 payout is confirmed at $1,702 for every eligible Alaskan.