The Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) is about to bring significant payments to qualified Alaskans, with the 2024 PFD stimulus check set at $1,702 per person. These payments come from the Alaska Permanent Fund, a state savings account that started in 1976, fueled mainly by oil and natural resources extracted from the state’s land.
The goal of the PFD is to share the wealth generated by these resources with residents who live in Alaska year-round. However, not everyone is eligible, and there are a few important criteria to qualify for the check.
Eligibility for the PFD Stimulus Checks
To qualify for this stimulus check, you must meet the following non-negotiable requirements:
Residency: You must have lived in Alaska the entire year, from January 1 to December 31, 2024. If you left for more than 180 days without an approved reason, you won’t qualify.
Intent to Stay: You need to show that you intend to remain in Alaska permanently. Limited absences for work, school, medical, or military reasons are acceptable, but extended time away without a valid reason will disqualify you.
Ineligible Circumstances: If you were convicted of certain crimes or spent time in jail during the eligibility window, you will not qualify. Additionally, if you collected benefits from another state or claimed residency elsewhere, you won’t be eligible.
Payment Dates for the 2025 PFD
The 2025 PFD payments will be distributed in three rounds:
June 18, 2025: If your application status changed to “Eligible-Not Paid” by June 11, 2025.
July 17, 2025: If your application status changed to “Eligible-Not Paid” by July 9, 2025.
August 21, 2025: If your application status changed to “Eligible-Not Paid” by August 13, 2025.
Once your status hits “Eligible-Not Paid,” the payment will be processed on the corresponding date. You can track your application status via the myPFD system on the official website.
How to Apply for the PFD Stimulus Check
Applying for the PFD is free, but there are some important things to gather before you begin:
A current Alaska ID (driver’s license or state ID card).
Proof you lived in Alaska in 2024.
Your Social Security card or Social Security number.
Banking details if you prefer direct deposit (paper checks will take longer).
Make sure your application is submitted before March 31, 2025, as late submissions will not be accepted. Double-check your banking details, as even a small mistake can delay your payment.
Important Dates and Shutdown Information
PFD offices will be closed from July 7-18, 2025, as staff work to process applications. Don’t try to call or visit the office during this period, as no one will answer. The myPFD portal will remain open, so you can still check your status online.
Tax Considerations
Good news: Alaska does not tax your PFD money. However, you must report the $1,702 payment as taxable income on your federal tax return, so keep that in mind when filing with the IRS.
Scam Warning
Be cautious during PFD season, as scammers often try to take advantage of people. The PFD office will never ask for personal information like passwords or account details via text or email. Always verify any communication through official channels before providing sensitive information.
