Everyone loves a good stimulus check, and while many programs have already distributed their payments, there’s still one program that stands out this year. The Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) program in Alaska is sending out checks that are 30% larger than last year.
This annual payment benefits over 600,000 eligible residents of Alaska, and in 2025, the amount will be a significant $1,702. But what exactly is this payment, and how do you qualify for it? Let’s dive into the details.
What is the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD)?
The Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) is a unique program in Alaska that gives eligible residents a portion of the profits generated from the state’s natural resources, especially oil. It’s not a federal stimulus check program, but rather a state-based initiative.
Each year, a portion of Alaska’s earnings from its natural resources is distributed to its residents as a dividend. While some might call it a “stimulus check,” it is unrelated to federal stimulus payments that were distributed during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
How Much Will the 2025 PFD Payment Be?
For 2025, eligible Alaskans will receive a payment of $1,702. This is a significant increase from the 2024 payment of $1,312, reflecting a 30% boost. The total amount is made up of two parts:
- Base Dividend: $1,403.83, which is the standard dividend based on the state’s oil revenues.
- Energy Relief Bonus: $298.17, which is a supplement to the base dividend and aims to help with rising energy costs.
This increase in the dividend is directly linked to the higher revenues from the state’s oil industry. Each year, the amount varies depending on Alaska’s energy market performance.
Who is Eligible for the 2025 PFD Payment?
To qualify for the 2025 PFD, there are strict residency and legal requirements. Here are the key qualifications:
- Residency: Applicants must have lived in Alaska for the entire year of 2024 and must intend to remain in the state indefinitely.
- Criminal History: People convicted of certain felonies, or those who were incarcerated for a felony at any point during 2024, will not qualify for the PFD.
- Application: To receive the payment, eligible residents must submit a formal application. This can be done online through the official PFD portal (pfd.alaska.gov) or by mailing a physical application by the deadline.
- Deadline: The deadline for applications for 2025 is March 31, 2025. Late applications will not be considered.
Additionally, applicants need to provide necessary documentation, including a government-issued ID, proof of residency in Alaska, and a valid Social Security number or ITIN.
When Will the 2025 PFD Payments Be Made?
The PFD payments for 2025 will be distributed on specific dates based on the approval status of the application. Here’s the payment schedule:
- First Payment: June 18, 2025, for applications approved before June 11, 2025.
- Second Payment: July 17, 2025, for applications approved before July 9, 2025.
- Third Payment: August 21, 2025, for applications approved before August 13, 2025.
The primary method of payment will be direct deposit, but paper checks are available for those who prefer or do not have a bank account.
The Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) in Alaska is a significant annual benefit for residents of the state, offering a share of the profits from its natural resources. With the 2025 PFD payment being larger than in previous years, many Alaskans are eagerly anticipating their checks.
If you’re eligible, make sure to apply by the deadline and ensure you have all the necessary documentation ready. It’s a great example of how state resources can be used to benefit residents directly.
