$1,702 Stimulus Checks in 2025 – Who’s Eligible and When Payments Will Be Issued

In 2025, Alaskans are receiving a welcome financial boost through the state’s Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) program. This year’s payout totals $1,702, a combination of the annual dividend and an added energy relief payment. While this isn’t a traditional stimulus check like those from the federal government, it offers real value to residents, especially those living in remote areas where living costs remain high.

If you’re wondering whether you qualify or how to get your hands on the money, this guide walks you through it all—from eligibility and payment dates to practical financial tips.

Overview

The 2025 PFD consists of two parts: the base dividend and an energy relief bonus. Here’s a breakdown of the numbers and what you can expect:

Feature	Details
Total Payment	$1,702 ($1,403.83 PFD + $298.17 energy relief)
Application Period	January 1 – April 31, 2025
Distribution Methods	Direct deposit or paper check
Payment Dates	April 20, May 17, June 15, 2025
Eligibility	Alaska residents meeting specific legal criteria
Tax Status	Taxable on federal returns
Apply Online	pfd.alaska.gov

Source

This payment isn’t a federal handout—it comes from Alaska’s oil revenue. The state invests a portion of its earnings from oil and mineral leases into the Alaska Permanent Fund. Each year, part of those earnings are shared with eligible residents through the PFD program.

In 2025, the total distribution includes an additional $298.17 to help with energy costs, making the full payment $1,702.

Eligibility

To qualify for the 2025 PFD payment, you must meet several key requirements:

• Be a full-year Alaska resident for 2024
• Intend to stay in Alaska indefinitely
• Not claim residency in another state or country during 2024
• Avoid disqualifying criminal convictions or long-term incarceration
• Be physically present in Alaska for at least 72 consecutive hours during 2023 or 2024

Acceptable absences (up to 180 days) include:

• Active-duty military service
• Attending college or university
• Receiving medical care
• Accompanying a qualifying family member in these categories

Payment

Payments are issued in waves depending on when your application is approved. Here’s the schedule:

Approval Date	Payment Date
By April 12, 2025	April 20, 2025
By May 9, 2025	May 17, 2025
By June 7, 2025	June 15, 2025

Payments are sent by direct deposit if banking info is provided or by paper check if not. To avoid delays, double-check your contact details when applying.

Application

Here’s how to apply:

1. Go to pfd.alaska.gov
2. Log in or create a myAlaska account
3. Fill out the 2025 PFD application
4. Upload any required documentation (especially for dependents or exceptions)
5. Select your preferred payment method

Note: If applying for a child or dependent, a parent or guardian must submit the application and documents.

Missed Deadline?

The 2025 deadline was April 31. Alaska law does not allow late applications unless you qualify for a narrow hardship exemption. If you missed out, your next chance opens on January 1, 2026.

Taxes

Yes, the PFD is taxable. You’ll need to report it on your federal tax return, and the IRS issues a Form 1099-MISC if you received a payment. This applies to adults and children alike.

Comparison

Still thinking this is just another stimulus check? Let’s clarify:

Feature	Alaska PFD	Federal Stimulus Checks
Source	State oil revenue	U.S. government funds
Frequency	Annual	One-time or periodic
Eligibility	Alaska residency	National income thresholds
Taxable?	Yes (federal)	Usually not

The PFD is unique to Alaska and tied to the state’s energy economy, not national emergencies.

Smart Use

A lump sum like $1,702 can be a lifesaver—or a lost opportunity. Here are some smart ways to use it:

• Pay off high-interest debt
• Start an emergency fund
• Improve home efficiency (e.g., insulation, heating)
• Fund education or job training
• Contribute to retirement savings

A simple rule? Try the 50/30/20 method: 50% on needs, 30% on wants, 20% into savings.

Economic Impact

The PFD isn’t just personal—it’s economic policy. Each year, it injects hundreds of millions into Alaska’s economy. In rural communities where jobs are scarce and prices are high, it’s often a lifeline. Some see it as vital support; others think more of the fund should go toward public services like roads and schools. Either way, the impact is real and long-lasting.

Whether you’re spending, saving, or strategizing, make sure you don’t miss out on your 2025 PFD. A little preparation now means a lot more peace of mind later.

FAQs