Alaska residents are set to receive a $1,702 payment in 2025 as part of the state’s Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) program, but it’s not a federal stimulus check—it’s unique to Alaska. This has caused confusion among many Americans wondering why they’re not getting similar payments. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is the $1,702 Alaska PFD Payment?
The $1,702 payout is not a nationwide stimulus but a state-level dividend funded by profits from Alaska’s oil wealth. Established in 1976, the Alaska Permanent Fund invests revenues from the state’s natural resources and shares a portion of those profits with residents annually.
Breakdown of the 2024 PFD:
| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Regular Dividend | $1,403.83 |
| Energy Relief Bonus | $298.17 |
| Total Payment | $1,702 |
The 2025 payout is expected to match this amount, though the final number may change based on fund performance and state budget decisions.
Who Qualifies for the 2025 Alaska PFD?
To receive the 2025 PFD, you must meet strict residency requirements:
- Lived in Alaska for the full year of 2024
- Still live in Alaska when applying
- Submit your application between February and April 2025
- Provide documentation if you had allowed absences (military duty, medical treatment, etc.)
- Avoid obtaining an out-of-state driver’s license, as it could disqualify you
Each person in a household—including minors—must apply individually at pfd.alaska.gov.
When Will Payments Be Sent?
If your application was marked “Eligible – Not Paid” by May 7, 2025, you will receive your payment on May 15, 2025.
Upcoming 2025 Payout Dates:
| Status Deadline | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| May 7 | May 15 |
| June 11 | June 18 |
Direct deposits go out first, while paper checks are mailed later in May.
Why Only Alaska?
People from all over the U.S. have expressed frustration and confusion about this program, especially those living in states like Illinois, Texas, Arizona, New Jersey, and Minnesota. The answer is simple: The Alaska PFD is not a federal program.
This money comes directly from Alaska’s own oil revenues—not from federal stimulus funds. Other states do not have equivalent oil wealth or programs like the PFD. That’s why residents in other states do not receive this payment.
Tax Implications
Even though Alaska doesn’t tax the PFD, the IRS does. The full $1,702 must be reported as taxable income on your federal return.
What If You Didn’t Receive Your PFD?
If you’re a qualified Alaska resident and didn’t receive your payment, here’s what to check:
- Was your application submitted before the April 2025 deadline?
- Did you maintain Alaska residency throughout 2024?
- Was your application marked “Eligible – Not Paid” by the cutoff?
- Do you have direct deposit details correct in the system?
You can track your application at myAlaska.
If you’re not a resident of Alaska, you are not eligible for this payment.
While the Alaska PFD is a significant financial benefit for eligible residents, it is not a stimulus check for all Americans. Those outside Alaska will not receive this $1,702 unless their state launches a similar program. For now, Alaska remains the only U.S. state with an oil-funded dividend distributed to all qualifying residents.
FAQs
Is the $1,702 PFD the same as a federal stimulus?
No. It is a state-funded dividend from Alaska’s oil revenues.
Can I get the PFD if I live in another state like Texas or Illinois?
No. Only Alaska residents who meet all eligibility requirements can receive it.
Is the PFD taxable?
Yes. The IRS considers the PFD as taxable income.
What happens if I miss the application deadline?
You will have to wait until the next cycle in 2026. Late applications are not accepted.
Where can I apply for the PFD?
At the official site: pfd.alaska.gov
