On Friday, December 26, 2025, a fresh wave of $1,000 payments is going out—not from the federal government, but from the Alaska Department of Revenue. This is part of the annual Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD), a program that shares the state’s oil wealth directly with its residents. So, if you’re an Alaskan wondering whether that money is headed your way, here’s what you need to know.
Table of Contents
Overview
Let’s clear something up right away. This isn’t a federal stimulus check. It’s Alaska’s way of sharing the profits from its oil reserves with the people who call the state home. The money comes from the Alaska Permanent Fund, a huge investment pool funded by oil revenues. Every year, a portion of the fund’s earnings is distributed to eligible residents as the PFD.
In 2025, the dividend is set at $1,000 per person. This might not sound like a massive windfall, but for many Alaskans—especially in rural areas—it makes a real difference.
Criteria
To get the PFD, you can’t just pass through Alaska or move there last week. The program is designed for long-term residents, and the eligibility rules reflect that. Here’s what you need to qualify:
- You must be a legal resident of Alaska with plans to remain indefinitely
- You must have been physically present in Alaska for at least 72 consecutive hours during both 2023 and 2024
- You can’t claim residency in any other state
- You must not have been convicted of a serious crime
- You must have filed a timely PFD application for 2025
If you check all those boxes, you’re likely in line to receive the payment—assuming your application has already been processed and marked eligible.
Timing
Not all payments go out at once. The Alaska Department of Revenue issues the PFD in several rounds or “batches” throughout the year. This helps the state manage application processing and avoid delays.
Here’s how the schedule works for late 2025 into early 2026:
| Eligibility Status Date | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| By November 12, 2025 | November 20, 2025 |
| By December 10, 2025 | December 26, 2025 |
| By January 7, 2026 | January 15, 2026 |
So, if your application status is marked “Eligible – Unpaid” by December 10, you’ll get your $1,000 PFD on December 26, just in time to help with post-holiday expenses or early 2026 bills.
Process
Once you’re eligible, how do you get your money? Just like with Social Security or tax refunds, direct deposit is the fastest and most secure method. If you’ve provided your bank info to the Alaska Department of Revenue, your payment will be sent straight to your account.
If you opted for a paper check, it will be mailed around the same time, but it may take longer to arrive—especially with potential postal slowdowns after Christmas.
Impact
For many in Alaska, the PFD is more than just a bonus—it’s a vital part of their yearly income. Families with children receive $1,000 for each member, which adds up fast. In remote communities where job opportunities are limited and the cost of living is high, this yearly payment offers real financial relief.
The 2025 PFD is smaller than in some past years, but it still plays a big role in household budgets across the state.
Whether you’re using it to catch up on bills, buy winter gear, or set some money aside, that December 26 payment is right on schedule—as long as your status was updated by December 10.
FAQs
Is the $1,000 payment a federal check?
No, it’s Alaska’s PFD, not a federal stimulus payment.
Who gets paid on December 26?
Applicants marked ‘Eligible – Unpaid’ by December 10, 2025.
How do I qualify for the PFD?
Be an Alaska resident, present 72 hrs in 2023-24, no serious crimes.
Can I get the PFD if I live outside Alaska?
No, you must reside in Alaska and not claim residency elsewhere.
When is the next PFD payment after Dec 26?
January 15, 2026, for those eligible by January 7, 2026.
