Alaska is unlike any other U.S. state. Instead of keeping all the profits from its oil resources, it shares a portion with its residents every year through the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD). Created back in 1976, the fund invests the state’s oil income and distributes part of the earnings to Alaskans. In 2025, that payout is set at $1,702 per person—a welcome boost for families and seniors facing rising living costs.
Breaking Down the 2025 PFD Payment
The 2025 payment, just like last year’s, is divided into two parts:
- $1,403.83 as the regular dividend
- $298.17 as an energy assistance bonus
This mix reflects Alaska’s steady oil revenue and strong economy. While the final number could shift slightly, most expect it to remain around $1,702.
Payment Schedule for 2025
The PFD isn’t handed out all at once—it follows a set schedule:
- August 21, 2025: First batch, for applicants marked “Eligible-Not Paid” from the previous year.
- September 3–18, 2025: The main wave, with direct deposits sent to bank accounts.
- September 11, October 2, and October 23, 2025: Additional payments, either by check or direct deposit.
Seniors with direct deposit usually see their funds hit first.
Who Qualifies?
Not every Alaskan automatically gets the payout. To qualify, you must:
- Be a resident of Alaska for the entire year of 2024 and plan to stay.
- Have been physically present in the state at least 72 hours during 2023 or 2024.
- Limit absences to less than 180 days unless for reasons like military service, school, or medical care.
- Have no serious felony convictions or multiple misdemeanors.
- Apply by March 31, 2025—no late applications are accepted.
How to Apply
The application process is straightforward:
- Go to pfd.alaska.gov.
- Sign in or create a myAlaska account.
- Fill in your residency details, banking info, and personal documents.
- Upload proof if you were temporarily out of state.
- Submit your application.
Every member of the household, including kids, must apply separately.
Why Payments Might Be Delayed
Even small mistakes can push back your payment. Common errors include:
- Missing the deadline
- Entering wrong bank details
- Forgetting to report absences
- Submitting incomplete paperwork
Double-checking your application can save you weeks of waiting.
Tax Implications
While Alaska doesn’t tax this payout, the IRS does. That means the PFD counts as income on your federal tax return. Adjusting your tax withholding ahead of time can help you avoid surprises at filing time.
Missed the Deadline?
Unfortunately, if you miss the March 31, 2025 deadline, you’re out of luck. The state does not allow late applications, so you’d have to wait until 2026.
Why This Matters
For many Alaskans—especially seniors—the PFD is more than just a yearly bonus. It helps cover heating bills, groceries, and other essentials, while also reminding residents that the state’s oil wealth belongs to them, too.
FAQs
Q: How much is the 2025 Alaska PFD payment?
A: The expected amount is $1,702 per eligible resident.
Q: Who qualifies for the PFD?
A: Alaska residents who meet the residency rules, have no serious criminal record, and apply on time.
Q: When will payments be sent out?
A: Between September 3 and September 18, 2025, with some early and later batches in August, September, and October.
Q: How do I apply?
A: Online at pfd.alaska.gov or by paper form between February 1 and March 31, 2025.
Q: Is the PFD taxable?
A: Yes—federally taxable by the IRS, but not taxed by the State of Alaska.