The much-discussed \$1702 stimulus check for 2025 is not a federal relief payment, but rather Alaska’s Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) — a long-standing program that distributes a portion of the state’s oil revenues to eligible residents.
In 2025, Alaskans can expect a \$1,702 payment, which includes a base dividend and a one-time energy relief bonus, aimed at helping households manage rising energy costs and inflation.
This payment is part of a state-specific initiative funded through the Alaska Permanent Fund, not a nationwide stimulus check like those seen during the COVID-19 pandemic.
How Alaska’s PFD Works
Alaska established the Permanent Fund Dividend in 1976 to allow residents to benefit from the state’s oil wealth and investment profits. Each year, eligible Alaskans receive a share of these earnings.
In 2025, the state has allocated over \$914 million to distribute payments to more than 600,000 residents — an increase from the \$1,312 payout in 2023, thanks to stronger oil revenue and market performance.
Who Is Eligible for the \$1702 PFD Check?
To qualify for the \$1,702 PFD stimulus check in 2025, residents must meet strict criteria set by the Alaska Department of Revenue:
1. Residency Requirements
- Must have been an Alaska resident for all of 2024 (Jan 1 – Dec 31)
- Must intend to remain in the state indefinitely
- Must not have claimed residency elsewhere
2. Physical Presence
- Must have spent at least 72 hours in Alaska in the past 24 months
- Cannot have been absent for more than 180 days in 2024 unless for approved reasons (e.g., military, education, healthcare)
3. Criminal and Legal Standing
- Cannot have been convicted of or incarcerated for a felony during 2024
- Fewer than two misdemeanors since Jan 1, 1997
4. Application Deadline
- Must submit an application between Jan 1 and Mar 31, 2025
- No late applications will be accepted unless qualifying for a formal appeal
Who Is Not Eligible?
You will not qualify for the PFD if:
- You were not a full-year Alaska resident in 2024
- You were absent for more than 180 days without valid exemption
- You were convicted of or incarcerated for a felony during 2024
- You miss the application deadline without a valid appeal
How and When Payments Will Be Made
The Alaska Department of Revenue will distribute PFD payments in multiple batches. Here’s a breakdown of the 2025 payment schedule:
- April 17, 2025: For 2024 and earlier applications verified by April 9
- May 5, 2025: First direct deposits for early online applicants
- May 15, 2025: For applications verified by May 7
- June 18, 2025: For “Eligible–Not Paid” statuses verified by June 11
- October 2025: Main distribution month for the majority of recipients
Direct deposit applicants will receive their funds more quickly, while paper checks may take several weeks longer.
How to Apply for the 2025 PFD Check
The application window runs from January 1 to March 31, 2025. Here’s how to apply:
Online Application (Preferred Method)
- Go to pfd.alaska.gov
- Log in or create a myAlaska account
- Fill out the online form with accurate residency, income, and banking information
- Upload any required supporting documents
- Submit before March 31, 2025
Paper Application (Optional)
- Download from pfd.alaska.gov or pick up from local distribution centers
- Manually fill out and sign the form
- Attach documentation (e.g., proof of residency or approved absence)
- Mail to the Alaska Department of Revenue with a postmark no later than March 31, 2025
Late submissions are only accepted under extraordinary circumstances (e.g., severe illness, natural disaster).
Understanding the Tax Impact
The \$1702 payment has specific tax implications:
Federal Taxes:
- The PFD is taxable income under IRS rules
- Recipients must report it on their 2025 federal tax return
- A 1099-MISC will be issued in early 2026
State Taxes:
- Alaska has no state income tax, so the payment is not taxed at the state level
Energy Relief Bonus:
- The \$298.17 bonus portion of the PFD is tax-free
- Only \$1,403.83 of the full \$1,702 is federally taxable
Tip: Set aside a portion of your payment or consult a tax advisor to avoid surprise IRS bills next year.
Other Stimulus and Rebate Opportunities in 2025
Although there is no federal \$1702 stimulus check, here are other financial relief programs active in 2025:
IRS Recovery Rebate Credit
- Up to \$1,400 for those who missed out on 2021’s payment
- Must file a 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025
- Payments are automatic for those flagged by the IRS
State-Specific Relief Programs
- California: Up to \$725 for qualifying residents
- Oregon: Rebates between \$200 and \$600
- Minnesota: Payments up to \$1,000 for families
Check with your state’s Department of Revenue to learn more about localized relief programs.
How to Avoid Stimulus Scams
Stimulus payments attract scammers. Protect yourself:
- Do not respond to unsolicited calls, texts, or emails asking for personal info
- Only trust pfd.alaska.gov and irs.gov for updates
- Never pay a “processing fee” to claim your check
- Beware of social media pages promising “guaranteed payments”
Reminder: Neither the IRS nor the Alaska Department of Revenue will ask for your banking details by phone or message.
