Thousands of Alaskans are gearing up for the $1,702 stimulus check, a benefit drawn from the state’s oil and gas revenues. This annual distribution provides significant economic relief, especially considering Alaska’s higher living costs.
In May 2025, eligible recipients will see a boost from the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD), which has long been a pillar of support for local families. The payment combines a main dividend of $1,403.83 plus a $298.17 energy bonus, reflecting a 30% increase over the previous year.
Why Alaska residents anticipate the $1,702 dividend payment every year: Requirements to be met
Alaska’s dividend system dates back to 1976, when authorities set aside revenues from oil and gas development in the Permanent Fund. Ever since, the fund’s management has been in the hands of the Alaska Permanent Fund Corporation, which invests the money and channels it back to qualifying locals. Can you imagine how much this extra cash helps with monthly bills or emergency savings?
To secure the $1,702 payment, applicants had to submit documentation by March 31, 2025, and prove they lived in Alaska throughout the previous year. A continuous residency of at least 12 months is essential, without attempts to establish residency elsewhere. Individuals also need to have been physically present in the state for at least 72 hours in the last two years.
Legal matters count as well. Anyone convicted of serious crimes in the prior 12 months, or with more than two misdemeanor convictions since 1997, is ineligible. Still, many residents find the process straightforward if they meet the basic rules and deadlines.
Dates and payment schedule updates that beneficiaries should mark on calendars
The Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend has provided a clear timeline for those who are still awaiting their deposits. If you submitted an eligible application for 2024 or earlier years, here’s the upcoming schedule:
| Application Status Date | Expected Payment Date |
|---|---|
| March 12, 2025 | March 20, 2025 |
| April 9, 2025 | April 17, 2025 |
| May 7, 2025 | May 15, 2025 |
Residents whose applications remain “Eligible-Not Paid” on May 7 should circle May 15 on their calendar. Who wouldn’t want a little extra cushion to help manage expenses? While the PFD stands out as a personal boon, many analysts also note the collective economic lift. Additional spending power flows into local stores, boosts small businesses, and helps families stay afloat.
If you are among the lucky recipients, remember to plan how you’ll use this money—whether it’s covering your energy bills, stocking up on essentials, or saving for the future. To learn more, visit pfd.alaska.gov, call 907-465-2326, or stop by the PFD office in Juneau.