The Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) stimulus check program will begin phased payments in 2025, just a few weeks away. According to the official schedule, $1,702 was distributed in 2024, leading some to speculate that the payment could be similar in 2025.
This annual system, in operation since 1982, seeks to distribute oil revenues to permanent Alaska residents. Payments scheduled for May 15, 2025, will benefit residents classified as “Eligible-Not Paid” through May 7. A second group will receive funds on June 18.
But there will be other approved payments that already correspond to those for 2025, and if you’re eligible, this information is certainly important for you.
Where does the money for the PFD benefit payment fund come from?
The Alaska Permanent Fund invests in stocks, bonds, and real estate to generate income. The program’s website states that the state’s natural resources “belong to all its residents.” Historically, amounts have fluctuated based on annual oil yields, with previous payments of $1,312 in 2023.
Residents can check their status on the “myPFD” platform. Those who did not update their information in a timely manner must submit a Change of Address Form or contact the appropriate department. Changes are not accepted by phone, and physical changes take up to 10 business days to process.
To receive the money, you must meet the following requirements:
Requirements include continuous residence in Alaska through 2023 and plans to remain there indefinitely. Also required are absence of felony convictions and compliance with income limits. The check cross-references state and federal records, including criminal background checks and immigration status.
Minors require an application from a parent or guardian, who must meet the same criteria. Those who moved or changed their immigration status in 2023 are not eligible. The official website offers guides for appealing denials or correcting errors in previous applications.
The average payments from the PFD stimulus payment program in the last ten years
Over the past decade, from 2014 through 2024, the distribution of Alaska’s Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) checks has seen its fair share of ups and downs. While the PFD isn’t officially a “stimulus check,” many Alaskans have relied on it similarly—especially during tough economic times.
Payments have ranged widely, from just over $1,000 in some years to nearly $2,100 in others, influenced by oil revenues and legislative changes. Notably, the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 prompted a one-time accelerated payment that felt like a stimulus to many residents.
More recently, the state has occasionally added supplemental energy relief payments, further blurring the line between PFDs and traditional stimulus aid.
Beware: Your stimulus check may have to be taxed.
The PFD is subject to federal income tax. Beneficiaries receive a Form 1099-Misc to report their income. Dependents must include the amount on their own or their guardians’ returns, following IRS regulations. No tax exemptions have been announced for 2025.
The PFD Department warned about scams that promise to expedite payments or charge fees. The application and status check are free. Official communications use the domain https://gov.alaska.gov/, and payments are deposited directly into registered accounts. Changes of address require notification before monthly deadlines.
