Everyone enjoys getting a little extra money—and if you’re living in Alaska, there’s good news for you in 2025. While most federal stimulus checks have already been given out in past years, one unique program is still going strong. It’s called the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD), and it’s paying out 30% more than last year.
What Is the PFD and Is It a Stimulus Check?
Many people call the PFD a “stimulus check,” but technically, it’s not a federal stimulus like those distributed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, the Permanent Fund Dividend is a yearly payment given to Alaska residents. It comes from profits made by the state through oil and other natural resources.
This payment is only for Alaska residents, and it’s managed by the state government—not by the U.S. federal government.
How Much Is the PFD in 2025?
For 2025, the PFD payment is $1,702 per eligible resident. This amount is broken into two parts:
Base Dividend: $1,403.83
Energy Relief Bonus: $298.17
This is a 30% increase from the 2024 payment, which was $1,312. The increase is thanks to higher earnings from oil, which makes up a big part of Alaska’s income.
Who Can Get the 2025 PFD?
To qualify for this year’s PFD, you must meet strict rules:
You must have lived in Alaska for the full year of 2024.
You must show that you plan to stay in Alaska long-term.
You cannot have been jailed or convicted of serious crimes in 2024.
You must have applied before March 31, 2025.
You must provide proper documents—like a government-issued ID, proof of Alaska residency, a Social Security Number or ITIN.
If you didn’t apply by the deadline, you won’t get the payment—even if you qualify.
When Will PFD Payments Be Sent?
Payments are made according to when your application was approved. If your status says “Eligible – Not Paid,” you’ll receive money on the next available payment date.
Here are the 2025 PFD payment dates:
June 18, 2025 – For applications approved before June 11
July 17, 2025 – For approvals before July 9
August 21, 2025 – For approvals before August 13
Most payments will be made by direct deposit into your bank account. But if you prefer or need a paper check, that option is also available.