The Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) is a special program that gives money every year to people who live in Alaska. This money comes from oil revenues earned by the state. The program started in 1982 and its main idea is simple: since Alaska’s natural resources belong to everyone living there, the benefits should be shared with all.
In 2024, the dividend was $1,702 per person. Many people got their money in October 2024, while others who were still listed as “Eligible-Not Paid” were scheduled to get their payments in May or June 2025.
What Is the PFD and How Does It Work?
The PFD comes from the Alaska Permanent Fund. This fund is managed by the state and includes investments in stocks, bonds, and real estate. Each year, the state calculates how much profit the fund made and uses a portion of that to give payments to eligible residents.
The main idea behind the PFD is that the oil and natural wealth of Alaska belong to its people, and so they should benefit from it directly. Every year, the payment amount changes based on how much profit the state earns.
How Much Is the PFD Stimulus Check for 2025?
The PFD amount for 2024 was $1,702. This was higher than the $1,312 given in 2023, thanks to better oil profits. For those who were marked as “Eligible-Not Paid,” the money will be given in two rounds in 2025:
- May 15, 2025 – For people who remained eligible through May 7, 2025.
- June 18, 2025 – For others who qualified later or missed earlier rounds.
This $1,702 amount is fixed. It doesn’t change based on age or where you live in Alaska.
Who Can Get the PFD?
To get the PFD, you must meet certain conditions:
- You must have lived in Alaska for all of 2023 and plan to stay there permanently.
- You should not have any serious criminal convictions.
- Your income and resources must fall within the required limits.
- If you have children, their guardians must also meet these conditions.
- Every year, the state checks your status using federal and state records.
Even children must have a PFD application, submitted by a parent or guardian who is also eligible. If you moved out of Alaska in 2023 or did not apply in time, you cannot receive the dividend.
Important Tips for PFD Recipients
If you’re waiting for your PFD, make sure your contact and bank details are correct. You can check your application status online using the “myPFD” tool. If you moved, submit a Change of Address Form. The online form takes about 48 hours to process, while mailing it takes up to 10 business days.
Remember, you cannot update details over the phone, and missing deadlines can delay your payment.
Also, be aware of scams. The PFD program is free to apply and does not charge any fees. Any message asking for money or promising faster payments is fake. Always check that messages come from the official https://gov.alaska.gov/ website.
Do You Have to Pay Tax on the PFD?
Yes, the PFD is considered income and is taxable by the IRS (Internal Revenue Service). If you get the dividend, you will receive a Form 1099-MISC to file with your tax return. If your children get the PFD, it must be added to your tax return or filed separately, depending on the situation.