This year, Alaska is once again distributing $1,000 automatic payments to residents through its long-standing Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) program.
This annual payment serves as a share of the state’s resource wealth, directly benefiting citizens who meet certain residency and eligibility criteria.
Let’s take a closer look at how this year’s PFD payments work, when they’re scheduled, and who qualifies to receive them.
What Is the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD)?
The Permanent Fund Dividend is an annual payment distributed to Alaska residents from the investment earnings generated by the state’s natural resource revenues, including oil and minerals.
Since Alaska is one of the most resource-rich states in the U.S., a portion of these profits is returned to residents as part of the PFD initiative.
In 2024, residents received $1,702, but the 2025 payment has been set at $1,000 due to lower available funds from the state’s earnings. Despite the reduction, the payment continues to play a key role in supporting households across the state.
Payment Schedule and Key Dates
The PFD payments are issued in three phases each year. Two rounds have already been distributed, and residents who haven’t yet received their funds can check their payment status on November 12.
Those whose application status reads “Eligible–Not Paid” will get their $1,000 payment on November 20.
For instance:
| Status Date | Payment Issued On |
|---|---|
| September 18 | October 2 |
| October 13 | October 23 |
| November 12 | November 20 (Upcoming) |
If your status says “Paid”, you can click the blue “Details” button on the official PFD website to view your payment method and delivery status.
Eligibility Requirements for the 2025 PFD
To receive this year’s Permanent Fund Dividend, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- Be a legal Alaska resident with the intent to live in the state permanently.
- Have been physically present in Alaska for at least 72 consecutive hours during both 2023 and 2024.
- Must not have claimed residency in another state within the past two years.
- Must not have serious criminal convictions that would disqualify them.
It’s important to note that the application deadline for the 2025 PFD was March 31. Those who missed this date will need to apply next year to qualify for the following round of payments.
PFD vs. Federal Stimulus Payments
While the Permanent Fund Dividend might appear similar to federal stimulus checks, the two are fundamentally different. The PFD is state-funded, originating from the Alaska Permanent Fund, which was created in 1976 to manage and invest revenues from oil and gas industries.
In contrast, federal stimulus payments were issued by the U.S. government to all citizens during national crises, such as the pandemic. The PFD is unique to Alaska and is distributed annually to residents as part of the state’s resource-sharing policy.
The Legacy of the Permanent Fund
The Permanent Fund Dividend has existed since the late 1970s, with the primary goal of ensuring that Alaska’s natural wealth benefits its citizens directly. Over the decades, the fund has grown into one of the world’s largest sovereign wealth funds, currently valued at over $80 billion.
This initiative has not only strengthened community welfare but also demonstrated how sustainable resource management can translate into direct economic benefit for residents.
The Permanent Fund Dividend remains one of Alaska’s most distinctive economic programs, showcasing how natural resource wealth can be shared equitably among citizens.
Even though the 2025 payment is lower than last year’s, the $1,000 payout continues to offer valuable financial support to households statewide. Residents who meet the eligibility criteria and have yet to receive their payment should check their application status on November 12 to confirm whether they’ll be included in the November 20 disbursement.
This enduring tradition reinforces Alaska’s commitment to ensuring that its people benefit from the state’s abundant resources.
FAQs
When will the 2025 PFD payments be made?
Eligible residents with an “Eligible–Not Paid” status by November 12 will receive their $1,000 PFD payment on November 20.
How much will Alaska residents receive this year?
Each qualified resident will receive a $1,000 payment, compared to $1,702 in 2024, due to reduced state earnings.
Can I still apply for the 2025 PFD?
No. The application deadline was March 31, 2025. Those who missed it will need to apply next year.




