The Alaska government has given its residents relief again with the announcement of a stimulus payment of $1,702, to be paid in May and October of 2025. This payment is through the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) program, which are distributions of income from the state’s natural resources, such as oil.
PFD payments started in 1976 with the idea being to provide future generations with the benefits of Alaska oil wealth. The fund is managed by the Alaska Permanent Fund Corporation (APFC) which invests in various asset classes such as stocks, bonds and real estate.
How was the amount of $1,702 created?
The PFD amount set for 2024 was:
- \$1,403.83 – Regular dividends
- \$298.17 – Additional Energy Assistance Amount approved by the State Legislature
The total amount of both would total $1,702 to be paid per eligible resident. The final 2025 amount has not yet been finalized but is expected to be equal or greater than this amount.
Payment Dates in 2025
Applicants with a status of “Eligible-Not Paid” in 2025 will receive payments according to the schedule below:
- April 17, 2025: For applications that are in “Eligible-Not Paid” as of April 9
- May 15, 2025: For applications that are in this status as of May 7
- June 18, 2025: For applications that are eligible as of June 11
Who is eligible?
The following qualifications are required to receive a PFD for 2025:
- Permanent Residency: You must have been a resident of Alaska for the entire 2024 year and have the intention of remaining in the future.
- Physical Presence: You must have been physically present for 72 hours in Alaska (not transiting or on a cruise) in 2023 or 2024.
- Long Absence: If you have been out of state for more than 180 days, you must state that the excuses are education, treatment or military duty.
- Criminal Record: If a person has a felony or multiple character crimes filed against him/her in 2024. That person will not be legal.
- Eligible Application Deadline: Applications will no longer be valid if they are submitted after March 31, 2025.
Note: Obtaining a driver’s license from another state for REAL ID may also affect eligibility, so it is advisable to avoid it.
How to Apply?
The application process for PFD is quite simple:
- Visit the official website: pfd.alaska.gov
- Create or log in to a myAlaska account.
- Fill out the application form – including personal information, proof of residency, and bank statements.
- If you have been temporarily out of Alaska, upload supporting documentation.
- Submit the application before the deadline (April 2025).
Common mistakes to avoid
These common mistakes can lead to delays or denial of PFD funds:
- Not filing the application on time
- Providing incorrect bank or mailing information
- Not reporting an absence from Alaska
- Incorrect or incomplete residency documentation
Is this payment taxable?
Although the state of Alaska does not tax this amount, it is considered federal taxable income according to the IRS (Internal Revenue Service).
- This amount must be reported on your 2025 tax filing.
- Adjust tax withholding to ensure taxes are due on time.
What if the application is not on time?
The Alaska government does not accept late applications after the April 2025 due date, meaning that you would not receive your dividend payment until 2026.
Conclusion: Don’t miss this opportunity
The Alaska PFD of $1,702 is more than just an economic relief for Alaskans, it is a representation of the shared wealth of the state of Alaska. If you meet all the eligibility requirements in a timely manner, this payment should arrive to your bank account by May 5, 2025.
Remember:
- Read the eligibility conditions carefully
- Apply between February to April 2025
- Fill all the information accurately
- Do not miss any document
It is easy to avail this scheme, just take some precautions and keep track of the time – and then be a part of this prosperity of the state!
FAQs
Q1. Who is eligible for the $1,702 PFD payment in 2025?
Residents of Alaska who lived in the state for all of 2024, with the intent to remain permanently, and who have no major felony convictions are eligible.
Q2. When will the $1,702 payments be issued?
Payments are expected to begin on May 5, 2025, with additional scheduled dates on April 17, May 15, and June 18, 2025 for pending eligible applications.
Q3. How do I apply for the Alaska PFD 2025?
You can apply online at pfd.alaska.gov or submit a paper form between February and April 2025.
Q4. Is the $1,702 PFD payment taxable?
Yes, the IRS considers it taxable income, though the State of Alaska does not tax it.
Q5. What if I miss the application deadline?
Late applications are not accepted. You will need to wait until 2026 to apply in the next cycle.