Alaska’s Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) will deliver a historic amount of $1,702 per person this year, divided into two parts: $298.17 to cover energy expenses and $1,403.83 as a direct cash payment.
This 30% increase over 2024 reflects the tension between maintaining generous long-term benefits and ensuring the state’s fiscal stability, especially in a context of declining oil revenues. And with the tariffs war launched by President Donald Trump,
To receive the stimulus check, residents must meet three conditions
These are the requirements that Alaska residents must meet to qualify and be eligible for the PFD stimulus check:
- have lived in Alaska for a full year prior to applying
- physically remain in the state at least 72 hours in the last two years
- have no convictions for serious crimes in the last year
Those who submitted their documentation before March 31, 2024 will receive payment on April 17, 2025.
Those who missed the deadline can still claim previous payments if their status is listed as “Eligible-Not Paid” before April 9, 2025, through online procedures or by traditional mail. Experts warn that delays could affect the liquidity of thousands of families, especially in rural areas with limited access to financial services.
Is Alaska’s PFD stimulus check program at risk?
Created in 1976, the PFD draws on Alaska’s oil profits, but its sustainability faces challenges. In 2025, the drop in hydrocarbon revenues and the need to finance public schools have generated a legislative debate. Without changes, the dividend could be reduced to less than $1,000 per person, according to official projections.
Three options dominate the discussion: withdraw funds from the Budget Reserve Account (CBR), extract more resources from the Permanent Fund, or increase taxes. The first requires approval by two-thirds of Congress, a complex scenario given political fragmentation. The second threatens the state’s credit stability, while the third faces opposition from Governor Mike Dunleavy, who has promised to veto tax increases.
Projects such as SB 92 and SB 112, which seek to raise $340 million annually through adjustments to oil companies, are stalled. “If there is no consensus, Alaska could face unprecedented cuts to essential services,” said a report from the Legislative Budget Office.
Unclaimed CARES Act stimulus checks: deadline expires in April for expats
Under the CARES Act, passed in March 2020, nearly 9 million Americans living abroad can still claim payments of up to $1,200 per person or $2,400 per couple, plus $500 for each child.
Through the Refund Recovery Credit (RRC), it is possible to adjust the amount received based on 2020 income, which especially benefits those who suffered salary reductions during the pandemic.
To apply for the benefit, it is essential to have filed tax returns in 2018 or 2019, or register before November 21, 2020. Those who did not meet these deadlines must include Form 1040 or 1040-SR with the RRC Program in their 2020 return, available until April 15, 2024. The procedure applies even for expatriates without active tax obligations.
After April 15, unclaimed amounts will revert to the US Treasury, with no option for recovery. Officials recommend checking account statements using the IRS “Get My Payment” tool or consulting with tax experts. “It is crucial to act now; this is the latest effort to close post-pandemic financial gaps,” said a Treasury Department spokesperson.
