If you’re an Alaska resident, you’re likely excited about the $1702 stimulus check coming in August 2025. This payment is part of the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) program, a unique initiative that shares the state’s oil revenue with its residents. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the 2025 PFD payment, including who qualifies, when you’ll get the money, how to apply, and tips to avoid delays.
What Is the Alaska PFD Program?
The Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) is a special program in Alaska that started in 1976. It takes a portion of the state’s oil and gas earnings and shares it with eligible residents every year. The goal is to give Alaskans a share of the state’s natural resource wealth while boosting the local economy. In 2025, each eligible resident will receive $1702, which can help with expenses like groceries, bills, or winter supplies.
This payment isn’t a federal stimulus check like the ones issued during the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, it’s a state-run program managed by the Alaska Department of Revenue. Around 600,000 Alaskans are expected to benefit from this payout in 2025, making it a significant source of financial relief.
Why Is the 2025 PFD Important?
The $1702 payment comes at a time when many Alaskans are dealing with rising costs for essentials like fuel, food, and utilities. For many families, this money can make a big difference, whether it’s used to pay bills, buy school supplies, or save for emergencies. The PFD also helps local businesses by encouraging spending in communities across Alaska.
Who Can Get the $1702 Stimulus Check?
To receive the $1702 PFD payment, you must meet specific requirements set by the Alaska Department of Revenue. Here’s a clear breakdown of the eligibility criteria:
Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Residency | You must have lived in Alaska for all of 2023 and intend to stay permanently. |
| Absences | If you were out of Alaska for more than 180 days in 2023, you must qualify for an allowable absence (e.g., military service, education, or medical treatment). |
| No Other Residency Claims | You must not have claimed residency in another state or country during 2023. |
| Legal Status | You cannot have been convicted of a felony or incarcerated for a misdemeanor (if you have prior convictions) in 2023. |
| Application | You must submit a PFD application by March 31, 2025. Both adults and children need separate applications. |
If you meet these conditions and your application is marked “Eligible – Unpaid” by August 13, 2025, you’ll receive your payment on August 21, 2025.
Who Is Not Eligible?
You may not qualify if:
- You moved to Alaska after January 1, 2024.
- You claimed residency in another state or country in 2023.
- You were incarcerated for a felony or certain misdemeanors in 2023.
- You missed the application deadline (March 31, 2025).
When Will You Receive the $1702 Payment?
The Alaska Department of Revenue has set a clear schedule for 2025 PFD payments. Most payments are sent via direct deposit, which is faster than mailed checks. Here’s the key date for August:
| Status Check Date | Payment Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| August 13, 2025 | August 21, 2025 | For applications in “Eligible – Unpaid” status. Direct deposits arrive 5–7 days earlier than checks. |
If you applied for the 2025 PFD between January 1 and March 31, 2025, and your application is approved, you can expect your payment on August 21, 2025, if your status is “Eligible – Unpaid” by August 13.
Earlier Payment Dates
Some Alaskans may have received their 2025 PFD earlier if their applications were processed sooner:
- June 18, 2025: For those with “Eligible – Not Paid” status by June 11.
- July 17, 2025: For those with “Eligible – Not Paid” status by July 9.
If you received a payment earlier in 2025, you won’t get another one in August. Each eligible resident receives only one PFD payment per year.
How to Apply for the 2025 PFD
Applying for the PFD is straightforward, but you need to follow the process carefully to avoid delays. Here’s how to do it:
Steps to Apply
- Visit the Official PFD Website: Go to pfd.alaska.gov and click on the “myPFD” section.
- Create or Log In to a myAlaska Account: This secure system lets you apply online and manage your application.
- Submit Your Application: File your application between January 1 and March 31, 2025. Both adults and children need separate applications.
- Update Your Details: Ensure your address and banking information are correct to avoid delays. If you applied online, you can update details in the myPFD portal.
- Check Your Status: Log in to myPFD to confirm your application is in “Eligible – Unpaid” status before August 13, 2025.
Tips to Avoid Delays
- Apply Early: Don’t wait until the March 31 deadline. Early applications are processed faster.
- Double-Check Information: Make sure your Social Security number, address, and banking details are accurate.
- Report Absences: If you were out of Alaska for more than 180 days in 2023, provide documentation for allowable absences.
- Avoid Scams: Only use the official PFD website (pfd.alaska.gov) or myAlaska portal. Never share personal information with unverified sources.
How to Check Your PFD Application Status
To ensure you’re on track to receive your $1702 payment, regularly check your application status. Here’s how:
- Go to pfd.alaska.gov and click “myPFD.”
- Log in with your myAlaska account credentials.
- Review your application status. It should say “Eligible – Unpaid” if you’re set to receive the payment.
- Update your address or banking details if needed to avoid delays.
If your status isn’t “Eligible – Unpaid” by August 13, 2025, contact the PFD Division at (907) 465-2326 or visit a PFD office.
Is the $1702 PFD Payment Taxable?
Yes, the $1702 PFD payment is considered taxable income by the IRS, even though Alaska has no state income tax. Here’s what you need to know:
- Federal Taxes: You’ll receive a Form 1099-MISC in January 2026 to report the PFD on your 2025 federal tax return.
- Withholding: If your application details don’t match IRS records (e.g., Social Security number), 24% of your payment may be withheld for taxes. Update your information in the myPFD portal to avoid this.
- Child Payments: PFDs for children may also be taxable, depending on the amount and your tax situation. Consult a tax professional for advice.
To avoid surprises at tax time, consider adjusting your tax withholding or setting aside money from the PFD for taxes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some errors that could delay or prevent your PFD payment:
| Mistake | How to Avoid |
|---|---|
| Missing the Deadline | Apply by March 31, 2025. Late applications are not accepted. |
| Incorrect Information | Verify your Social Security number, address, and banking details in myPFD. |
| Not Reporting Absences | Disclose any time spent outside Alaska in 2023 and provide documentation. |
| Using Unverified Sources | Only use pfd.alaska.gov or myAlaska for applications and updates. |
If you miss the 2025 application window, you’ll need to wait until 2026 to apply for the next PFD.
Why the PFD Matters to Alaskans
The $1702 PFD payment is more than just extra cash. For many Alaskans, it’s a lifeline to cover high living costs, especially in rural areas where groceries and fuel are expensive. Families might use the money to:
- Pay for utilities or heating during the winter.
- Buy school supplies or clothes for kids.
- Save for emergencies or future expenses.
The PFD also boosts Alaska’s economy by encouraging spending at local businesses, from grocery stores to restaurants.
Beware of Scams
With any large payment program, scams are a risk. Here’s how to protect yourself:
- Use Official Sources: Only trust information from pfd.alaska.gov or myAlaska.gov.
- Avoid Phishing: The PFD Division and myAlaska do not send texts or emails asking you to update passwords or personal details.
- Report Fraud: If you suspect a scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the PFD Division at (907) 465-2326.
FAQs About the $1702 PFD Stimulus Check
Is the $1702 payment a federal stimulus check?
No, it’s a state payment through Alaska’s Permanent Fund Dividend program, funded by oil revenue, not a federal initiative.
Can children receive the $1702 PFD?
Yes, children are eligible, but they need a separate application submitted by a parent or guardian by March 31, 2025.
What if I miss the August 21, 2025, payment?
If your application wasn’t in “Eligible – Unpaid” status by August 13, 2025, you may need to resolve issues with the PFD Division or wait for the next payment cycle in 2026. Contact (907) 465-2326 for help.
Do I need to file taxes to get the PFD?
No, but the payment is taxable at the federal level. You’ll receive a Form 1099-MISC for your 2025 tax return.
Can I update my address after applying?
Yes, if you applied online, update your address in the myPFD portal. For paper applications, submit an Address Change Form to a PFD office.
Conclusion
The $1702 Permanent Fund Dividend payment in August 2025 is a valuable opportunity for Alaska residents to ease financial burdens and support their families. By meeting the eligibility requirements, applying by March 31, 2025, and keeping your information updated, you can ensure you receive this payment on time. Check your application status regularly on the myPFD portal, avoid scams, and plan for the federal tax implications. With rising costs in 2025, this payment can provide much-needed relief and help boost Alaska’s local economy. Visit pfd.alaska.gov for more details and stay informed to make the most of this program.