Stimulus payments are always a welcome relief for many Americans, providing financial support and boosting economic activity. While federal stimulus payments, like those issued during COVID-19, have been widely publicized, states also have their own versions.
This month, Alaska residents can look forward to a new round of payments as part of the state’s Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD), which shares revenue from state resources with eligible residents.
Stimulus Checks
The IRS is still distributing unclaimed stimulus payments from previous federal relief efforts. These payments were initially released during the COVID-19 pandemic to help struggling families, but around one million eligible individuals never claimed their funds.
In total, approximately $2.4 billion in unclaimed payments remain, and the IRS has been automatically sending out these credits to qualifying individuals. If you believe you may be eligible but haven’t received your payment, you can check your status on the IRS website.
Permanent Fund
Unlike federal stimulus checks, which are distributed during times of crisis, Alaska’s Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) is a state-level initiative that provides annual payments to residents.
These payments come from the profits generated by Alaska’s oil and mineral wealth, ensuring that residents benefit from the state’s natural resources.
The 2025 PFD payment is set at $1,702 per eligible resident. Payments were initially distributed in October 2024, with the final scheduled round released on March 20, 2025. However, additional distributions are planned for later in the year for eligible residents who have not yet received their payments.
Who Qualifies?
To receive the $1,702 payment, residents must meet the following criteria:
- Be an Alaska resident for at least one full year before applying
- Intend to remain in Alaska indefinitely
- Have spent at least 72 hours in Alaska in the past two years
- Have no felony convictions in the last 12 months
- Have no more than two misdemeanor convictions since January 1, 1997
Payout Dates
If you missed the March 20 payment, here are the upcoming payment dates for 2025:
| Payment Status | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| “Eligible-Unpaid” by April 9 | April 17 |
| “Eligible-Not Paid” by May 7 | May 15 |
Alaska residents who meet the eligibility criteria but haven’t received their funds should check their status through the Alaska Department of Revenue.
Other State Initiatives
Stimulus payments are especially beneficial to low- and middle-income households, providing much-needed financial relief. In addition to the Alaska PFD, other states offer financial aid through tax rebates and state assistance programs.
One example is Florida’s Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) program, which supports families with children under 18 years old. This program provides temporary financial aid while parents seek stable employment.
Other states have similar initiatives, demonstrating the importance of government programs in helping struggling families. If you live outside of Alaska, check with your state’s Department of Social Services for any available aid programs.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the Alaska PFD?
Residents who have lived in Alaska for at least one year and meet other eligibility criteria.
How much is the 2025 Alaska PFD payment?
Eligible residents will receive $1,702.
When are the next Alaska PFD payments?
Payments will be sent on April 17 and May 15, 2025.
How can I check my stimulus payment status?
Check your status on the IRS or Alaska Department of Revenue websites.
Are other states offering stimulus payments?
Some states provide tax rebates or assistance programs for low-income residents.
