Stimulus checks are government payments to boost the economy during crises. In the US, they were used during the COVID-19 pandemic. Alaska has a unique model that is not replicated in any other state in the country: the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD), which distributes annual oil profits to residents. This program, created in 1976, seeks to share natural resources with the population.
The Alaska Permanent Fund invests in oil and mineral exploitation royalties. Their returns finance the PFD, which varies according to the market and legislative decisions. For example, in 2022, the payment included a non-taxable energy relief, raising the amount to $3,284, in 2023 the payment dropped to $1,312 and in 2024 it was $1,702. For 2025, the value is not yet announced, but is expected in October or November.
The history of PFD stimulus payments from recent years
PFD amounts have varied considerably over the past five years, reflecting both the financial performance of the Alaska Permanent Fund and the state’s legislative priorities.
Because the majority of oil profits are not always dedicated to stimulus checks, but there are other investments such as education and public services that also use this money for financing.
- 2020
- Dividend amount: $992.00
- 2021
- Dividend amount: $1,114.00
- 2022
- Dividend amount: $3,284.00
- Notes: Included $662 non-taxable energy relief
- Dividend amount: $3,284.00
- 2023
- Dividend amount: $1,312.00
- 2024
- Dividend amount: $1,702.00
- Notes: Included $1,403.83 standard dividend and $298.17 energy relief
- Dividend amount: $1,702.00
2025 PFD news: when will we know the final amount?
As of April 2025, the amount of the 2025 PFD has not been revealed. The Alaska Department of Revenue calculates the dividend using five-year average earnings and the number of applicants. Official announcements are usually made in September, with payments in October or November.
Requirements for 2025 include residency through 2024, intent to remain in Alaska, and excused absences under 180 days. Those who claim out-of-state residency or have serious convictions are ineligible. The process requires an annual application before March 31.
To receive the PFD, applicants must:
- Residing in Alaska from January 1 to December 31, 2024.
- Do not claim residency benefits in other states or countries.
- Physically be in Alaska for at least 72 consecutive hours in 2023 or 2024.
- Have no felony convictions in 2024 or incarceration for prior misdemeanors.
Absences of more than 180 days require justification (work, health or military service). Those who fail to meet these criteria lose the right to payment, even if they previously received PFD. The state verifies data with other government agencies.
Applications for 2025 were due by March 31, 2025, online or by mail. The myPFD portal allows you to update banking or postal information. Late applications are automatically rejected. Upon approval, funds are sent via direct deposit or check, depending on registered preference.
The Department of Revenue notifies denials by mail, with the option to appeal within 30 days. Common errors include outdated addresses or inconsistencies in residency records. In 2024, 2% of applications were rejected, according to official data.
Qualifying residents should monitor myPFD.alaska.gov for any developments that we were not aware of at the time of publication of this article.
