For Alaskans, the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) is more than just a yearly payout—it’s a share of the state’s resource wealth that supports households and boosts the local economy. Established in 1976 after the discovery of oil in Prudhoe Bay, the fund was designed to save a portion of oil revenues for future generations.
Managed by the Alaska Permanent Fund Corporation, the fund invests its principal, while a part of the earnings is shared with eligible residents.
Alaska’s Annual Stimulus Check
The PFD is often called Alaska’s “stimulus check” because it puts cash directly into residents’ pockets. This payment helps families cover expenses, supports local businesses, and gives a boost to consumer spending.
Every year, the payment amount is based on a set formula. Some years, extra bonuses are added to help cover energy costs. However, the exact figure depends on oil prices, investment performance, and state approvals.
Alaska PFD 2025 Payment Schedule
The distribution of payments is done in phases throughout the year. Direct deposits are sent first to applicants listed as “Eligible-Not Paid” by the cutoff dates, while paper checks usually arrive later.
Here is the official 2025 payment schedule:
| Payment Date | Eligible by Application Status Date |
|---|---|
| May 15, 2025 | Eligible-Not Paid by May 7, 2025 |
| June 18, 2025 | Eligible-Not Paid by June 11, 2025 |
| July 17, 2025 | Eligible-Not Paid by July 9, 2025 |
| August 21, 2025 | Eligible-Not Paid by August 13, 2025 |
| September 11, 2025 | Eligible-Not Paid by September 3, 2025 |
| October 2, 2025 | Eligible-Not Paid by September 18, 2025 |
| October 23, 2025 | Eligible-Not Paid by October 13, 2025 |
Eligibility Rules for PFD
To qualify for the PFD, applicants must meet strict residency and presence requirements:
Must have lived in Alaska for the full previous calendar year.
Must intend to remain in Alaska permanently.
Must be physically present in the state for at least 72 consecutive hours during the qualifying year.
Cannot be absent from the state for more than 180 days, except for allowed reasons like education or medical treatment.
Convictions for certain felonies can disqualify applicants.
The application deadline is March 31 each year, and residents must apply through the official online portal or by paper form.
How Much Will Alaskans Get in 2025?
The final 2025 PFD amount hasn’t been announced yet. It will be based on the Alaska Permanent Fund’s investment performance over several years and can also be influenced by legislative decisions. Historically, payments have included both a base dividend and occasional energy-related bonuses.
The Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend remains a unique program that directly shares the state’s resource wealth with its people. With payments scheduled from May through October 2025, residents can plan their budgets accordingly.
While the final dividend amount is yet to be confirmed, the PFD continues to serve as a financial lifeline for households and a powerful boost for Alaska’s economy.
