Every year, Alaskans eagerly await the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD), a unique program that shares the state’s oil wealth with its residents. In 2025, eligible Alaskans will receive a $1,702 payment, set to hit bank accounts or mailboxes on August 21, 2025. This cash boost, combining a base dividend of $1,403.83 and a $298.17 energy relief bonus, helps families tackle rising costs like heating, groceries, and other essentials. Here’s everything you need to know about the 2025 PFD, including who qualifies, how to get paid, and what to expect.
What Is the Permanent Fund Dividend?
The PFD started in 1982 to share Alaska’s oil revenue with its people. The state created the Alaska Permanent Fund in 1976, investing money from oil and gas into a fund managed by the Alaska Permanent Fund Corporation. Each year, a portion of the fund’s earnings is paid out to eligible residents. For 2025, about 600,000 Alaskans will receive the $1,702 payment, injecting nearly $1 billion into the state’s economy. This program is one-of-a-kind in the U.S., offering residents a direct share of natural resource wealth.
Who Can Get the $1,702 Payment?
To receive the PFD, you must meet strict rules set by the Alaska Department of Revenue. These ensure only long-term residents benefit. The requirements are clear, and missing even one can disqualify you. Check if you qualify with these key points:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Residency | Lived in Alaska for all of 2024. |
| Intent to Stay | Plan to remain an Alaska resident indefinitely. |
| No Other Residency | Cannot claim residency in another state or country since December 31, 2023. |
| Physical Presence | Spent at least 72 consecutive hours in Alaska during 2023 or 2024. |
| Criminal Record | No felony convictions in 2024; no disqualifying misdemeanors. |
| Application Deadline | Applied by March 31, 2025. |
If your application status is “Eligible-Not Paid” by August 13, 2025, you’ll receive the payment on August 21.
How and When Will You Get Paid?
Payments go out in batches, with August 21, 2025, being a major distribution date for those with “Eligible-Not Paid” status by August 13. Direct deposit is the fastest way to get your money, landing in your bank account on the payment date. If you chose a paper check, it may take longer due to mailing times. To avoid delays, update your banking and address details on the myPFD portal at pfd.alaska.gov. About 600,000 residents are expected to receive this payout, which includes the base dividend plus an energy relief bonus to help with high fuel costs.
Why Is the 2025 Payment $1,702?
The 2025 PFD amount comes from the fund’s earnings in 2024, plus a one-time energy relief bonus approved by the Alaska Legislature. The base dividend of $1,403.83 reflects the fund’s performance, while the $298.17 bonus helps residents manage rising energy prices. This total is about $400 more than the 2023 PFD, thanks to strong oil revenues and careful budgeting. However, the full $1,702 is taxable for federal income taxes, so plan to set aside some money for your 2025 tax return. Alaska does not tax the payment at the state level.
How to Check Your Status and Apply
To ensure you get your payment, visit pfd.alaska.gov and log into the myPFD portal using your myAlaska account. This lets you check your application status, update your address, or switch to direct deposit. If you haven’t applied yet, the 2025 application period closed on March 31, 2025, but you can apply for 2026 between January 1 and March 31, 2026. Missing the deadline or having incorrect information, like an outdated address, can delay or cancel your payment. Always use the official PFD website to avoid scams.
Tips to Make the Most of Your PFD
The $1,702 payment can help with bills, savings, or winter preparations. Financial experts suggest these steps to maximize your dividend:
- Set aside 10–15% for federal taxes to avoid a big tax bill.
- Use direct deposit for faster, safer delivery.
- Budget the money using a plan like the 50/30/20 rule (50% needs, 30% wants, 20% savings).
- Watch out for scams—only share details through pfd.alaska.gov.
This payment is a lifeline for many Alaskans, especially in rural areas, and boosts local businesses by increasing spending.
Why the PFD Matters to Alaskans
The PFD isn’t just extra cash—it’s a tradition that supports Alaska’s economy and families. For a family of four, the 2025 payout could mean over $6,800, helping cover essentials or boosting savings. The program also makes Alaska’s income distribution more equitable, reducing poverty, especially for rural and elderly residents. As oil revenues fluctuate, the Alaska Legislature continues to debate the PFD’s future, but for now, it remains a vital part of life in the Last Frontier. Stay informed, check your status, and make sure you’re ready for the August 21 payout.