Alaska residents are about to see a $1,702 deposit hit their bank accounts or mailboxes starting Wednesday, June 18, and if you’re one of the thousands approved for the state’s annual Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD), you’re in for a big summer bonus. While some are calling this a “stimulus-style” payment, it’s actually a guaranteed share of Alaska’s oil revenue—an annual cash payout that’s especially important in a time of high costs and inflation.
The $1,702 payment is made up of two parts: a $1,403.83 base dividend and a $298.17 energy relief bonus. Together, they form one of the largest PFD checks in recent years, offering some real financial relief to Alaskans.
So what’s the catch? There isn’t one—if you meet the eligibility rules and applied by the March 31 deadline, you could be just days away from receiving your money.
What Is the PFD and Why Is the State Sending $1,702?
The Permanent Fund Dividend is Alaska’s way of sharing its oil wealth with the people. Each year, money earned from oil and gas revenues is invested, and a portion of the profits are distributed directly to residents. For 2025, that amount is $1,702 per eligible individual.
It’s not a federal program or part of any national stimulus—it’s a unique Alaska tradition that’s been around since 1982. The energy relief bonus, included in this year’s check, is designed to help with heating and utility costs, which hit Alaskans especially hard during long winters.
How Do You Know If You’re Getting Paid?
You qualify for the June 18 payment if:
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You were a full-year Alaska resident in 2024
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You plan to remain in Alaska long-term
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You were physically present in the state for at least 72 consecutive hours in the last two years
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You didn’t serve time for a felony or certain misdemeanors in 2024
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You applied by the March 31, 2025 deadline
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And your status was marked as “Eligible – Not Paid” by June 11
If that’s you, your check is either on its way by mail or will appear in your bank account through direct deposit starting this week.
How and When You’ll Get Paid
There are two ways the state distributes the funds: direct deposit and paper check. If you chose direct deposit, you can expect to see the funds hit your account on Wednesday, June 18. If you requested a paper check, it will be mailed the same week but may take several days to arrive depending on your location.
Not everyone will receive the payment this week. The state has additional payment rounds planned for those who were approved later in the year. The next major dates are:
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July 17 for those approved by July 9
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August 21 for those approved by August 13
Why This Matters More Than Ever
This isn’t just free money—it’s a real financial buffer for families. In rural areas, where heating oil, food, and transportation can cost two or three times the national average, this payout can be the difference between catching up on bills or falling behind.
Many households use the PFD to pay off medical debt, buy school supplies, or build emergency savings. For others, it helps fund travel or reconnect with family across Alaska’s vast terrain. This annual payment is also a huge driver of local economies, with small businesses often seeing a spending boost around payout season.
What You Should Do Right Now
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Log into your PFD account atand check your application status
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If your status says “Eligible – Not Paid” as of June 11, you’re good to go
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Verify your direct deposit info to avoid any delays
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If you’re getting a check, watch your mail starting later this week
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And if you missed the deadline, prepare to apply early next year—the 2026 application period opens in January
