Around 600,000 American households may soon get stimulus payments of up to $1,400. This money comes from the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD), a yearly payment given to people who live in Alaska and qualify. While the final amount for 2025 is still under discussion, some past payments are also being released soon. Let’s take a closer look at who qualifies, how much people can expect, and what’s causing the delays.
What Is the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD)?
The Alaska PFD is a payment given to residents of Alaska from the state’s oil money savings. It helps support families and individuals with yearly payments based on the state’s oil revenue. The amount changes each year based on government decisions and how much money the fund earns.
How Much Will People Get in 2025?
The amount for 2025 is still not confirmed. Here’s what’s being proposed:
Governor Mike Dunleavy wants to give $3,900 per person, based on an old formula from the 1980s.
The Alaska Senate suggested $1,000 on May 2, 2025.
The House of Representatives proposed $1,400 in April 2025.
Due to budget problems and a $1.8 billion state deficit, many believe the final amount will be somewhere between $1,000 and $1,400. The $3,900 figure is considered unlikely as it would put too much pressure on the state budget.
Why the Delay in Payments?
Alaska lawmakers must agree on the final amount. The Senate, House, and Governor’s office are still discussing it. Final decisions usually come around September each year, so people may have to wait until then to know exactly how much they will receive.
PFD Amounts Over the Years
The payment amounts have changed a lot over the years:
- In 2020, the dividend was $992.
- In 2022, it went up to $3,284.
- In 2023, it was $1,312.
- In 2024, it was $1,702 (including a $295 energy relief bonus).
This shows how the amount can go up or down based on the economy and government plans.
Who Can Still Get Money from Old Payments?
If you applied for the 2024 (or earlier) dividend but haven’t been paid yet, you might be eligible to receive it soon. The Alaska Department of Revenue will send payments on the following dates:
- April 17, 2025 – for those marked “Eligible-Not Paid” by April 9
- May 15, 2025 – for those marked “Eligible-Not Paid” by May 7
- June 18, 2025 – for those marked “Eligible-Not Paid” by June 11
So if you’re still waiting on past payments, you may be getting your money soon.
Do You Qualify for the PFD?
To get the Alaska PFD, you must:
- Live in Alaska for the whole calendar year before applying.
- Plan to stay in Alaska permanently.
- Not claim residency in any other U.S. state.
- Not have serious legal issues like felonies or arrest warrants.
- Apply by March 31, 2025 (for the 2025 payment).
- Provide proof of residence such as rent agreements or utility bills.
- Minors must have a parent or guardian apply on their behalf.
People who qualify usually get their payments in October. But the exact amount depends on the final decision by Alaska lawmakers.
While many Alaskans are hoping for a big payout of $3,900, the more likely figure will be between $1,000 and $1,400 due to budget issues. If you’ve not yet been paid for earlier applications, you could still receive money on the upcoming distribution dates.
The Alaska PFD continues to offer crucial financial help to eligible residents every year. It’s important to stay informed and meet the application rules if you want to receive your payment.
