Alaska residents can now apply for their Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) stimulus checks, which are expected to provide up to $3,900 per eligible resident. These annual payments, funded by the state’s oil revenue profits, offer significant financial support to Alaskans for housing, healthcare, education, and daily expenses.
If you live in Alaska and qualify, here’s everything you need to know about eligibility, payment amounts, application deadlines, and when to expect your check.
Contents
- 1 What Is the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD)?
- 2 How Much Will Alaskans Receive in 2025?
- 3 How PFD Checks Benefit the Alaska Economy
- 4 Who Is Eligible for the 2025 Alaska Stimulus Check?
- 5 How to Apply for the 2025 Alaska PFD Check
- 6 When Will Alaskans Receive Their PFD Payments?
- 7 Tax Implications: Is the PFD Check Taxable?
- 8 FAQs
What Is the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD)?
The Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) is a state-funded program that distributes a portion of Alaska’s oil revenue to its residents each year. Established in 1976, the PFD ensures that Alaskans benefit directly from the state’s natural resources.
How PFD Payments Are Determined
- The PFD amount changes annually based on oil revenues and state investments.
- The 2024 PFD was higher than the 2023 PFD, but the 2025 payment is expected to remain similar to 2024 levels.
- The final payment amount will be determined by the Alaska Legislature during the 2025 session.
How Much Will Alaskans Receive in 2025?
Governor Mike Dunleavy’s Proposal
Governor Mike Dunleavy has proposed that each Alaskan receive approximately $3,900. However, this plan would require withdrawing over $1.5 billion from the state’s Constitutional Budget Reserve, which may face opposition from lawmakers.
Alternative Payment Estimate
If lawmakers follow the current formula, which is based on 25% of the annual state drawdown from the Alaska Permanent Fund, the PFD payment may be around $1,400 instead.
| Year | PFD Payment Per Resident |
|---|---|
| 2025 (Projected) | $1,400 – $3,900 (TBD by Legislature) |
| 2024 | $1,702 |
| 2023 | $1,312 |
| 2022 | $3,284 |
How PFD Checks Benefit the Alaska Economy
The PFD stimulus checks provide essential financial relief, allowing residents to cover:
Rent and mortgage payments
Energy and utility bills
Medical expenses
Tuition and school supplies
Daily living costs
Many Alaskans also save a portion of their PFD payments for future financial security.
Debates Over the PFD Program
While PFD payments are widely supported, some legislators argue that a portion of the funds should be allocated to education and healthcare instead of direct payments. Others raise concerns about the long-term sustainability of these large withdrawals from the Alaska Permanent Fund.
Who Is Eligible for the 2025 Alaska Stimulus Check?
To qualify for the 2025 PFD payment, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
Be a full-year Alaska resident for 2024
Physically present in Alaska for at least 180 days in 2024
Not have committed a felony in the past year
Exceptions for Temporary Absences
If you were out of Alaska for more than 180 days, you may still qualify if you were away for:
- Military service
- Education (college/university)
- Medical treatment
Those who left for unapproved reasons will not be eligible for the 2025 PFD payment.
How to Apply for the 2025 Alaska PFD Check
The application period runs from January 1, 2025, to March 31, 2025. Late applications will not be accepted.
Step-by-Step Application Process
1. Gather Required Documents
- Alaska residency proof (utility bills, lease agreements, employment records)
- Valid Social Security Number (SSN)
- Previous year’s tax return (if applicable)
2. Apply Online or by Mail
- Online: Visit the Alaska Department of Revenue’s official website and submit your application electronically.
- Mail: Download and complete the PFD application form, then mail it to the Alaska Department of Revenue before the March 31, 2025 deadline.
3. Track Your Application Status
Once submitted, you can check your PFD application status online to ensure it is processed correctly.
When Will Alaskans Receive Their PFD Payments?
PFD payments are expected to be distributed in October 2025.
Payments will be directly deposited into the bank accounts of eligible applicants.
Tax Implications: Is the PFD Check Taxable?
Yes, the IRS considers the PFD payment as taxable income. This means:
- You must report it on your federal tax return.
- If you receive a large PFD payment, your tax liability may increase.
FAQs
1. How much will the 2025 PFD payment be?
The final amount is not yet confirmed, but estimates range from $1,400 to $3,900 per resident.
2. When is the deadline to apply?
Applications must be submitted between January 1 and March 31, 2025. Late applications will not be accepted.
3. Who qualifies for the PFD check?
Full-year Alaska residents who were physically present for at least 180 days in 2024.
Individuals convicted of felonies in 2024 are not eligible.
4. Can I still get a PFD payment if I was outside Alaska?
Yes, but only if you were away for an approved reason (military service, education, medical treatment).
5. When will PFD payments be sent?
Payments are expected to be deposited in October 2025.
