The Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) is one of the most well-known welfare programs in the United States. Every year, it gives a cash payment to eligible residents of Alaska, funded by state oil revenues. This yearly benefit is more than just a bonus—it helps many families cover basic living costs and gives back a share of Alaska’s natural wealth.
As of April 2025, the official payment amount for this year’s PFD has not yet been announced. However, based on past trends and expert guesses, many expect it could be close to $3,200. Still, this number is not confirmed by the Alaska Department of Revenue, so residents will need to wait for the final announcement.
Let’s take a closer look at who qualifies for this benefit, when payments might be made, and how to check the status of your PFD application online.
What Is the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD)?
The PFD is a yearly payment given to residents of Alaska from the state’s oil revenue earnings. This program was started in 1976 to make sure Alaskans benefit from the state’s rich natural resources. The amount each person gets depends on how well the Permanent Fund has performed financially over the past five years.
For example:
- In 2022, the highest payment ever recorded was $3,284.
- In 2024, the total was $1,702, which included an energy relief payment of $298.17.
The expected 2025 payout, based on unofficial reports, may go up again—possibly around $3,200—but this is not final yet.
How Is the PFD Amount Calculated?
The method is based on a five-year average of earnings. Here’s how it works:
- The net income of the fund from the current year and the previous four years is added up.
- That total is then divided by five.
- From this average, 21% is used to calculate the dividend amount for residents.
This formula helps keep the payment stable even if some years have poor fund performance. Political decisions may also affect the final amount.
Who Qualifies for the 2025 PFD?
To get the 2025 PFD check, residents must meet specific requirements:
- Must be an Alaska resident for the entire year of 2024.
- Must have applied between January 1 and March 31, 2025 (exceptions apply only in rare cases).
- Must not have any recent criminal convictions.
- Must intend to remain in Alaska indefinitely.
Failing to meet even one of these conditions could make you ineligible.
When Will the 2025 PFD Be Paid?
Although the official dates are not released yet, if the state follows the same timeline as 2024, the first payments (especially Direct Deposits) might be issued around October 3, 2025. People who chose paper checks may receive them later than those using Direct Deposit.
How to Check Your PFD Payment Status Online
To check the status of your application or payment, visit the official PFD online portal at:
Here’s how you can use the portal effectively:
Security Updates
- Stronger passwords are now required.
- First-time users interacting with PFD services must activate multi-factor authentication (MFA) using SMS or voice call.
Two Ways to Check Your PFD
1. General Search (basic info)
You can:
- Reprint your signature sheet.
- View pending actions.
- Update your donation preferences for Pick.Click.Give or Alaska529 (by August 31).
2. Sign In with myAlaska Account (full access)
You’ll be able to:
- Sign documents online.
- Update your physical, postal, or email address.
- Change or add direct deposit details.
- Download your tax form (Form 1099).
To use this feature, click on “Sign In” at the top right of the myAlaska page. You can either log in to your existing account or create a new one with a valid email address. Make sure not to create multiple accounts, as only the original account can be used to edit or view your application.