Imagine getting free money every year just for living in one place. Sounds too good to be true, right? But in Alaska, this is actually real. It’s called the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD), and it’s a yearly payment given to eligible residents.
The money comes from the state’s oil and natural resources. If you’re a full-time Alaskan, you could get a pretty nice amount added to your bank account every year.
What Is the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD)?
The Alaska PFD is a yearly cash payment for people who live in Alaska full-time. It was created back in 1976 when the state decided to save a part of the money it makes from oil and other natural resources.
Instead of spending it all at once, Alaska set up a special fund – the Permanent Fund. This fund is like a big savings account that earns money through smart investments in things like stocks, real estate, and bonds.
Every year, part of the money earned from these investments is shared with the people of Alaska. The idea is simple: if the state’s natural wealth is being used, the benefits should go to its people too.
How Much Was the PFD in 2025?
In 2025, each eligible Alaskan received $1,702 through the PFD program. This amount included a base dividend of around $1,403 plus a special energy bonus of about $300.
If you submitted your application by June 11, 2025, you likely received your money by June 18. It’s a good deal for simply being a long-term resident of Alaska.
Who Can Get the PFD?
Not everyone can claim the PFD. To qualify, you must have:
Lived in Alaska for the entire year before the payment.
Planned to stay in Alaska permanently.
Not claimed residency in another state or country.
Not been out of Alaska for more than 180 days (unless for approved reasons like military service or college).
Spent at least 72 straight hours in Alaska sometime in the last two years.
Also, having a criminal record could prevent you from getting the payment. Felonies and some other crimes can disqualify you. Children born or adopted during the year may receive the payment if their parent or guardian meets all the rules.
How the Fund Makes Money
The Alaska Permanent Fund started with the goal of saving 25% of the state’s earnings from oil and minerals. Over time, the money has been invested wisely. By 2025, the fund had grown to over $80 billion. Only the profits made from these investments are used to pay the dividends – the original savings are kept safe.
Every year, about half of the average profit from the past five years is used for the PFD. This amount is then shared equally among all eligible applicants. The actual payment can change depending on how the fund performs and how many people apply.
When and How to Apply
To get the PFD, you must apply between January 1 and March 31 each year. If you miss this window, you’ll have to wait until the next year to apply. So it’s important to remember the dates and apply on time if you want your share.