John Hughie
Stimulus payments remain one of the most effective tools for both state and federal governments to offer direct financial assistance to citizens during challenging economic periods.
These payments are typically one-time disbursements tied to specific circumstances, but some states have introduced recurring programs that offer yearly benefits. In one such state—Alaska—residents are slated to receive a $1,700 stimulus check by August 2025.
Federal Stimulus Payments: The Last Round Was During COVID-19
Although recent speculation has suggested that the federal government may soon release new stimulus payments, no such initiative has been officially announced. The last federally approved stimulus occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the Biden Administration authorized three rounds of Economic Impact Payments (EIPs) to assist citizens suffering from job loss and economic hardship.
The final $1,400 EIP remained available to claim up until the most recent tax season. While the Trump Administration has not confirmed any broad new stimulus plans, the recently passed “Big, Beautiful Bill” introduces targeted one-time payments.
Under this bill, new parents who welcome a baby between 2025 and 2028 can receive a $1,000 ‘Trump Account’ bonus, aimed at encouraging early savings for children’s futures.
Alaska Residents to Receive $1,700 This Year
In the absence of federal efforts, the state of Alaska is providing its own yearly financial relief through the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD). Thanks to its small population of approximately 600,000 residents and abundant mineral and oil reserves, Alaska is in a unique position to offer this benefit.
Managed by the Alaska Department of Revenue, the PFD program has been operating since 1980, giving Alaskans a share of the state’s resource-based revenues. Each year, eligible residents receive a dividend that varies based on the fund’s performance.
In 2025, the dividend is set at $1,702.
Eligibility Criteria for the $1,702 Payment
To qualify for this year’s Alaska PFD, applicants must meet the following requirements:
| Eligibility Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Residency | Must be a resident of Alaska |
| Duration | Must have lived in Alaska for at least 12 months and have no plans to leave |
| Absence Allowance | If temporarily out of state (e.g., military service or education), must have spent at least 72 consecutive hours in Alaska during the last 24 months |
| Criminal History | Cannot have been incarcerated for a felony in the past 12 months |
| Conviction Record | If convicted of a felony or two misdemeanors since 1997, there must be no misdemeanors in the last 12 months |
When Will Alaska Residents Receive the Payment?
The distribution of PFD payments began in June 2025 and will continue through August. Important dates include:
- June 18: First batch sent to applicants marked “Eligible-Unpaid” as of June 11
- July 17: Payments issued to those labeled “Eligible-Not Paid” by July 9
If your application status is “Eligible-Unpaid” and you weren’t paid on July 17, but the status remains the same by August 13, you can expect your $1,702 payment by August 21.
Additionally, to be considered for this year’s dividend, you must have submitted your application by March 31, 2025. Missed the deadline? You’ll need to wait until next year to apply.
For residents of Alaska, the Permanent Fund Dividend continues to serve as a vital financial resource, especially in times of economic uncertainty. With this year’s payment amounting to $1,702, eligible individuals will receive a helpful boost by August 21, 2025.
Unlike federal stimulus programs, which have largely paused since the pandemic, Alaska’s approach demonstrates the power of state-led relief initiatives. Be sure to check your status on the official website and ensure all eligibility criteria are met to secure your payout.
FAQs
How much is the Alaska PFD for 2025?
The 2025 Permanent Fund Dividend for Alaska residents is $1,702.
Can I still apply for the 2025 PFD if I missed the deadline?
No. The application deadline was March 31, 2025. If you missed it, you must wait until the next cycle.
How do I check the status of my Alaska PFD payment?
Visit the official Alaska Department of Revenue website and enter your details to check your payment status. Look for labels such as “Eligible-Unpaid” for upcoming disbursements.
