Many Alaskans were gearing up for a repeat of last year’s $1,702 Permanent Fund Dividend, but this June, that number is getting a major haircut. Thanks to a tense legislative session and ongoing budget battles, the 2025 payout has been trimmed to $1,112 per person, with the first round of checks and deposits hitting accounts on June 18.
This dramatic cut reflects a compromise between lawmakers aiming to protect the state’s budget reserve while still delivering some form of relief to residents. Though it’s significantly less than what Alaskans received in 2024, it still offers meaningful support for households struggling with rising costs in one of the nation’s most expensive states to live in.
Why the Payment Dropped from $1,702 to $1,112
The steep reduction in the dividend is a direct result of Alaska’s worsening budget outlook. State legislators faced a massive funding shortfall heading into 2025. To avoid dipping into the Constitutional Budget Reserve—a fund the state has long tried to protect—they voted to reduce this year’s dividend amount.
Initially, proposals ranged from $1,000 to $1,300, with the final number landing at $1,112 after much debate. It’s a compromise that tries to balance financial responsibility with giving residents a cash injection during tough economic times.
Who Still Qualifies for the 2025 Payment?
Even though the payout amount has changed, the eligibility criteria have not. You’ll receive the $1,112 payment if:
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You were a full-year Alaska resident during 2024
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You intend to remain in Alaska long-term
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You spent at least 72 consecutive hours in the state in the last two years
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You did not serve time for a felony or certain misdemeanors in 2024
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You filed your application by the March 31, 2025 deadline
If you’ve met all those conditions and your PFD application status says “Eligible – Not Paid” as of June 11, then your money is on the way.
When and How the Payments Are Being Made
The state is releasing the $1,112 in three payment rounds this summer, based on when your eligibility was confirmed.
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If your application was finalized by June 11, your direct deposit or check will be issued on June 18
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Those who reach “Eligible – Not Paid” status by July 9 will receive their payment on July 17
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A third group, approved by August 13, will get their check or deposit on August 21
Payments are issued either by direct deposit or mailed check, depending on the option you selected during your application. If you’re unsure, you can check your status or update your info by logging into the state portal at
Why This Payment Still Matters
Even though the payment is smaller this year, $1,112 still goes a long way in Alaska—where high fuel costs, expensive groceries, and remote transportation can stretch family budgets thin. For some, this check covers heating fuel or back-to-school supplies. For others, it’s a chance to pay off medical bills or stash something away for emergencies.
More broadly, this payout serves as a symbol of Alaska’s commitment to sharing its oil wealth with its people, even when the numbers get tight. However, lawmakers are increasingly under pressure to overhaul the dividend formula entirely, meaning future payouts may shrink or change shape in the years ahead.
What You Should Do Right Now
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Check your PFD application status to see if it reads “Eligible – Not Paid”
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Confirm your direct deposit info or mailing address
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Expect funds to land on June 18 if you’re in the first wave
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Watch your bank or mailbox closely
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If you missed the deadline this year, remember to apply between January and March 2026
This year’s reduced check may be a wake-up call for some, but for others, it’s still a valuable lifeline. Either way, staying up to date with Alaska’s budget and dividend discussions is more important than ever.
