A new wave of direct payments is heading to Alaskans just before the year ends. The state is set to issue another round of its 2025 Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) on Thursday, December 18. If you’re a resident with an approved application, this $1,000 stimulus payment could hit your account or mailbox within days.
Here’s everything you need to know about the payment, who qualifies, and what the key dates are.
Table of Contents
Overview
The Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend is a long-standing program that distributes a portion of the state’s oil investment earnings to residents. It’s not a one-time relief payment or a temporary stimulus. It’s a yearly payout funded by Alaska’s sovereign wealth fund, built from oil revenue and investment returns.
The amount changes every year. For 2025, the PFD amount is $1,000. While that’s less than the $1,702 paid in 2024, it still offers meaningful support, especially at a time when inflation continues to push up the cost of fuel, groceries, and utilities.
Purpose
Unlike other stimulus checks issued by federal programs, the Alaska PFD is part of a permanent state-level structure. It’s designed to ensure that the benefits of Alaska’s natural resources are shared directly with its residents.
This December payment is part of the 2025 round, which will include two remaining disbursements: one this month and the final one in January 2026. The December payment helps ease end-of-year financial strain for many households, covering holiday expenses or basic bills.
Eligibility
Not everyone living in Alaska qualifies automatically for the PFD. The state has strict residency requirements designed to ensure only true long-term residents benefit.
Here are the core eligibility rules:
- Must be a legal Alaska resident with the intent to stay permanently
- Must 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 during that time
- Must not have been convicted of a serious felony crime
These conditions aim to promote long-term residency and community involvement in the state.
Payment Amounts
Each year, the PFD amount is determined based on how well the fund has performed and how the state legislature allocates the money. Here’s how the last two years compare:
| Year | PFD Amount |
|---|---|
| 2024 | $1,702 |
| 2025 | $1,000 |
Even though this year’s payment is smaller, it still provides a helpful financial cushion for eligible families—especially when combined with other end-of-year financial planning.
Payment Dates
Three key dates are tied to the 2025 PFD distributions. If your application was approved and is in “Eligible – Unpaid” status by the dates below, you can expect your payment soon after:
| Application Status Date | Payout Date |
|---|---|
| November 12, 2025 | November 20, 2025 |
| December 10, 2025 | December 18, 2025 |
| January 7, 2026 | January 15, 2026 |
If you fall under the December 10 group and your application was approved by that date, your $1,000 will be distributed on December 18.
How to Check Status
If you’re unsure about your eligibility or payment status, you can check your application status on the official myPFD portal. You’ll need your PFD confirmation number or other identifying details. The site will show if your application is marked “Eligible – Unpaid,” which means you’re in line for the next payment.
If your status still shows “Pending” or “In Review,” then you’ll need to wait until the next payout cycle, or contact the Permanent Fund Dividend Division for help.
FAQs
When is the next Alaska PFD payment?
The next payment is scheduled for December 18, 2025.
How much is the 2025 PFD payment?
Eligible residents will receive $1,000.
Who qualifies for the PFD payment?
Long-term Alaska residents meeting specific criteria.
Can I still apply for the PFD?
Applications for 2025 are closed; wait for 2026.
How do I check my PFD status?
Visit pfd.alaska.gov and log into your account.
