A big update is here for Alaska residents! Nearly 600,000 people have been selected to receive a $1,702 stimulus check through the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) program. This yearly payout gives residents a share of Alaska’s oil money and is meant to support them with extra financial help.
Let’s understand how this program works, how much people have received in past years, and what’s expected in 2025.
What is the PFD Stimulus Check?
The Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) is a yearly payment given to people living in Alaska. It comes from the state’s earnings made through oil and gas sales. Since 1982, the government has been sharing a part of this money with residents to support them financially and help them enjoy the state’s natural wealth.
The amount is calculated using oil revenues, investment profits, and decisions made by Alaska lawmakers.
PFD Amount in 2024 and Past Years
In 2024, the PFD was $1,702. This included a base payment and a $298.17 bonus to help cover rising energy costs. Here’s a look at previous years’ payments:
2022 – $3,284
2023 – $1,312
2024 – $1,702
2025 – Not announced yet (expected by September)
The announcement is usually made in September, and payments are sent in October or November.
Who Will Get the 2025 PFD?
The final list of people getting the 2025 PFD check will be confirmed in September 2025. If you applied before March 31, 2025, and chose direct deposit, you’ll likely get your payment faster.
It’s important to note that only about 600,000 of the 740,000 eligible residents were approved in the last round.
New Law Could Change Future PFD Payments
There’s a new proposal in Alaska’s government that could reduce the PFD payment to $1,000. House Bill 209, introduced by Democrat Zack Fields, aims to limit who can get the money. People earning over $50,000 a year (single) or $100,000 a year (couples) might be left out.
The idea behind this bill is to use the extra money—around $300 million a year—for public services like schools and roads. Supporters believe it’s a good way to keep the state’s budget strong and improve essential services.
What Are the Arguments?
Not everyone agrees. Some lawmakers say the $1,000 limit is too low and doesn’t consider inflation. Others think the income limits are unfair to middle-income families. Critics worry that changing the PFD could lead to legal action and hurt a program that many Alaskans rely on every year.
The debate shows the difficulty of choosing between keeping a beloved cash benefit and funding important public services.
What Should You Do Now?
If you’re a resident of Alaska and applied on time, just wait for the official announcement in September 2025. The payment will likely be made in October or November, just like in past years. Make sure your bank details are updated to avoid delays.
For now, it’s important to stay informed about new laws that could impact your future payments and keep an eye on updates from the Alaska Department of Revenue.
The PFD stimulus check is a helpful yearly support for many Alaskans, offering a share of the state’s oil money. While nearly 600,000 people qualified in 2024 for the $1,702 payment, upcoming changes may affect who gets it and how much they receive in the future.
As Alaska discusses budget needs and public spending, the future of this dividend is still being debated. Be sure to apply on time and stay updated on any legal changes so you don’t miss your chance at the payment.
