As July winds down, some Americans are looking toward August with a sense of anticipation. Why? Because a fresh round of $1,700 stimulus checks has been confirmed—but only for residents of one state. If you call Alaska home, you might be in luck. The state’s unique financial program is back for its final payout of 2025, and qualifying residents are set to receive a much-needed check later this month.
Let’s cut into who qualifies, how much is coming, and when it will hit your bank account.
Program
Alaska isn’t like any other state—and not just because of its glaciers and remote wilderness. It’s the only state in the U.S. that literally pays residents to live there. Through the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) program, Alaskans receive annual payments funded by oil and natural resource revenues.
Launched in 1980, the PFD program was designed to help residents share in the state’s natural wealth and to support the local economy. In 2025, nearly 600,000 Alaskans are expected to receive benefits from the fund.
Payout
For 2025, the total stimulus check from the PFD program is $1,702, broken down as follows:
| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Annual PFD Dividend | $1,440 |
| Energy Relief Bonus | $262 |
| Total Payment | $1,702 |
This amount is tax-free and distributed either via direct deposit or mailed check, based on what you selected during your PFD application.
Two rounds of payments have already been completed this year. The third and final batch is scheduled for later this August.
Eligibility
Not everyone in Alaska qualifies automatically. There are specific rules in place to ensure the funds go to long-term, law-abiding residents.
You’ll qualify if you:
- Were a full-year resident in Alaska during 2024
- Intend to remain in Alaska indefinitely
- Were not absent from the state for more than 180 consecutive days in 2024
- Have not claimed residency in another state or country since December 31, 2023
- Were not incarcerated or convicted of a felony in 2024
- Applied for the 2024 PFD before March 31, 2025
If you meet all those boxes, congrats—you’re in line for a check.
Payment
So when does the money arrive?
If your application is marked “Eligible-Not Paid” by August 13, 2025, then you’re scheduled to receive your payment on:
August 21, 2025
The Alaska Department of Revenue will process these payments based on your application preference—either through direct deposit or a mailed check.
To track your payment, visit the official Alaska Department of Revenue PFD portal and click “myPFD.” From there, verify your mailing address or update it if needed. You can also download and submit a Change of Address form to one of the local PFD offices.
Future
Not receiving a payment this year? No worries—you can apply for the next round. Applications for the 2026 PFD will be open from January 1 to March 31, 2026. As long as you remain an eligible resident and meet the same criteria, you’ll be set for the following year.
Other states also offer their own relief programs, but Alaska’s PFD remains the most consistent, state-funded benefit program tied directly to natural resource revenues.
FAQs
How much is the Alaska PFD 2025 payment?
It totals $1,702, including a $1,440 dividend and $262 bonus.
When will the last payment be made?
August 21, 2025, for those marked ‘Eligible-Not Paid’ by August 13.
Do I need to apply every year?
Yes, you must reapply annually between January 1 and March 31.
Can I still qualify if I left Alaska briefly?
Yes, but not if you were absent over 180 consecutive days.
Where can I check my payment status?
Visit the Alaska PFD website and select the ‘myPFD’ portal.
