As the cost of living continues to rise, Alaska residents are set to receive a major financial boost this summer through the state’s Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) program.
Worth $1,702 in 2025, this payment will land in bank accounts in August—but the application deadline is fast approaching.
For many, this is more than just extra money; it’s an essential form of support that helps cover the state’s higher costs for food, fuel, and everyday necessities.
Understanding the Alaska PFD
The Permanent Fund Dividend program was introduced in the early 1980s when Alaska’s oil industry was booming.
The idea was simple but impactful—invest a portion of oil revenue into a permanent fund, then distribute the returns directly to residents each year.
Over the decades, it has become a staple of Alaskan life, providing annual payments that help families prepare for winter and manage seasonal expenses.
How Much Will Residents Receive in 2025?
For 2025, the Alaska Department of Revenue has confirmed a total payout of $1,702 for eligible residents. This includes:
- Base Dividend: $1,403.83
- Energy Relief Payment: $298.17
Both amounts are combined into a single payment. It’s important to note that the PFD is taxable at the federal level, so recipients will receive a 1099-MISC form in early 2026 to report this income when filing taxes.
Eligibility Requirements
Not all Alaskans automatically qualify for the payment. To receive the 2025 PFD, you must:
- Have lived in Alaska for the entire 2024 calendar year.
- Intend to remain an Alaska resident indefinitely.
- Have been physically present in Alaska for at least 72 hours during 2023 or 2024.
- Not have claimed residency in another state or country during 2024.
- Have no disqualifying felony convictions or incarcerations during the qualifying year.
Special provisions allow for certain absences without losing eligibility, including:
- Full-time college attendance
- Military service
- Medical treatment
- Accompanying a spouse or dependent engaged in the above activities
How Many Will Benefit?
It’s estimated that around 600,000 residents will qualify for the 2025 payment—representing the vast majority of Alaska’s population.
Key Payment Dates and Deadlines
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | August 31, 2025 |
| First Payment Batch | June 20, 2025 |
| Second Payment Batch | July 17, 2025 |
| Third Payment Batch | August 15, 2025 |
| Major Distribution | August 21, 2025 |
Late applications are generally not accepted unless there is a documented hardship. Missing the deadline means waiting until the 2026 cycle, which opens June 1, 2026.
How to Apply for the 2025 PFD
Applying is free and must be done online through the official state portal. Here’s how:
- Visit the official PFD website.
- Log in with your myAlaska account or create one.
- Complete the 2025 PFD application form.
- Upload any required documents (especially for dependents).
- Choose your payment method (direct deposit or paper check).
- Submit your application before August 31, 2025.
Payment Methods
- Direct Deposit: Funds usually arrive within 1–2 business days after release.
- Paper Check: May take up to 10 business days depending on your location.
Direct deposit is recommended for faster and more secure delivery.
Checking Your Application Status
You can track your payment progress by logging into your myPFD account. Payment statuses such as “Eligible – Paid” or “Eligible – Unpaid” will show whether your funds have been released.
Always ensure your mailing and banking information is up to date to avoid delays.
Tax Implications
Unlike federal pandemic-era stimulus payments, the PFD is subject to federal income tax.
The state will send a 1099-MISC form in early 2026 for the total amount you received. Alaska has no state income tax, so there are no state-level deductions.
Why the 2025 PFD Matters
This year’s payment is particularly important because it includes a $298 energy relief component to help offset high utility costs.
For many households—especially those in remote communities—this money will help cover heating bills, groceries, and transportation costs as winter approaches.
Avoiding Scams
The PFD program is a frequent target for fraud. Protect yourself by:
- Ignoring unsolicited calls, emails, or texts asking for personal or banking details.
- Only applying through the official PFD website.
- Avoiding anyone who claims they can “speed up” your payment for a fee.
The Alaska Department of Revenue will never charge a fee to process your application.
The $1,702 Alaska PFD payment is a long-standing commitment to share the state’s resource wealth with its people. With the August 31, 2025 deadline quickly approaching, eligible residents should act now to secure their payment.
Whether used for heating costs, groceries, or savings, this year’s PFD is a timely boost that will help many Alaskans navigate the months ahead.
FAQs
How much will the 2025 Alaska PFD be?
Eligible residents will receive $1,702, which includes a base dividend of $1,403.83 and an energy relief payment of $298.17.
When will I get my PFD payment?
The major distribution date is August 21, 2025 for those marked “Eligible – Paid” before the cutoff. Earlier batches began in June and July.
What if I miss the application deadline?
If you miss the August 31, 2025 deadline, you will generally need to wait until the 2026 application cycle, unless you can prove a valid hardship.