Good news for many who need a little financial stimulus to finish starting the year. New stimulus checks that could be on the way, with a payment of up to $1,400, have everyone talking. This money comes from the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD), a super special program that distributes part of Alaska’s oil profits to its residents. So, if you live in Alaska, pay attention because this interests you!
About 740,000 people in the state could be eligible to receive this check, as long as they meet the requirements, such as having lived in Alaska all of last year, and having applied to request the money before the end of the 2025 deadline.
What is the PFD stimulus payment program
Created in 1976, the PFD distributes profits from the Alaska Permanent Fund, a sovereign wealth fund fueled by oil surpluses. In 2015, the fund exceeded $53.7 billion, according to official records. Annual payments depend on available income, eligible applicants and policy decisions.
The amount Alaska residents will receive in 2025 as part of the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend has not yet been established. According to legislative branch sources, current proposals range between $1,000 and $1,400 per person.
While the House of Representatives supports the higher figure, the Senate considers it more prudent to reduce the payment. As of May 9, 2025 (by the moment this article was published), none of the proposals had been officially approved.
The negotiations are taking place in the midst of a complicated fiscal panorama. The State of Alaska faces a budget deficit estimated at $450 million, according to data released by the House.
This situation has been aggravated by the decline in oil revenues, which has generated tension between different political forces over how to balance public accounts without cutting the PFD too much. The state legislative session usually concludes in May, suggesting an imminent definition.
What the history of PFD payments suggests
These were the amounts of the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) corresponding to the last 10 years, from 2014 to 2024:
- 2024: $1,702
2023: $1,312
2022: $3,284 (includes a one-time energy bonus of $662) - 2021: $1,114
- 2020: $992
- 2019: $1,606
- 2018: $1,600
- 2017: $1,100
- 2016: $1,022
- 2015: $2,072
- 2014: $1,884
Although $1,400 has been proposed as a stimulus check for this year, the chances of the amount being that amount are somewhat low. A lower PFD could limit the impact on the local economy, which traditionally relies on these payments for essential expenses. In 2023, 78% of beneficiaries used the money for basic services, according to state surveys. An amount of $1,000 would be equivalent to a 41% reduction compared to the governor’s initial proposal.
The legislative session is due to close in May, but could be extended if disagreements persist. Once approved, the Department of Revenue will announce the final amount. Meanwhile, we recommend verifying official sources to avoid speculation.
