We’re in the home stretch of summer, and in Alaska that means two things: the salmon runs are slowing, and the countdown to the fall Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) payout has officially begun.
If you missed the early-bird wave of payments back in May, don’t worry — the second big batch is coming October 2025. Every eligible Alaskan will still see the same total this year: $1,702, which includes that handy $298.17 energy relief bonus.
How We Got Here
Back in 1976, Alaska decided to stash away part of its oil wealth instead of spending it all at once. The Alaska Permanent Fund was born — a savings-and-investment machine now worth tens of billions. The state invests it in everything from Wall Street stocks to real estate in London, and a chunk of the earnings get paid out to residents each year.
In short: oil comes out of the ground, money goes into the fund, investments grow, Alaskans get a slice.
2025 Payment Details
| Payment Type | Amount | Payout Month(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Base PFD | $1,403.83 | May or October |
| Energy Relief Bonus | $298.17 | May or October |
| Total | $1,702 | May or October |
- May 2025: First round went to early applicants.
- October 2025: Second round coming for later approvals.
If you were approved after the first payment cycle, you’re looking at a direct deposit or check in just a couple of months.
Who Qualified This Year
To get the 2025 PFD, you had to:
- Be an Alaska resident for all of 2024
- Plan to stay in Alaska indefinitely
- Spend most of the year physically in Alaska (exceptions apply)
- Not claim residency anywhere else
- Avoid certain criminal convictions
August reminder: If you’ve moved or changed banks since applying, update your info with the PFD Division ASAP — otherwise your money could bounce around in bureaucratic limbo.
What If You Missed Applying?
Sorry — applications closed April 1, 2025. Alaska does not do late entries. The earliest you can try again is January 1, 2026.
Taxes: Don’t Forget This Part
The state won’t tax your PFD, but the IRS absolutely will. That $1,702 is considered federal taxable income, so budget for it when tax season rolls around.
Why August Matters
Right now is the “quiet before the payout storm” — no more applications, but plenty of people double-checking their status online. For families counting on that October check to cover winter gear, fuel oil, or just a buffer for groceries, August is when the wait starts to feel real.
Quick Facts for August 2025:
- Total payout: $1,702 (includes $298.17 bonus)
- Next payout: October 2025
- Eligibility: Must have applied by April 1, 2025
- Taxable? Yes, federally
FAQs:
Can I still apply for 2025 in August?
No — applications closed April 1.
If I already got paid in May, do I get another in October?
No, you only get the PFD once per year.
How can I check if I’m in the October batch?
Log into the PFD application portal and check your status.
