Many Americans are excited about the $1,702 stimulus payment set to roll out in July 2025. This payment, part of Alaska’s Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) program, aims to help residents manage rising costs. It’s not a federal stimulus check but a state program sharing Alaska’s oil wealth. This guide explains who qualifies, when the payment arrives, how to apply, and key details in simple language. Whether you’re an Alaskan resident or just curious, we’ve got you covered with clear answers.
What Is the $1,702 Stimulus Payment?
The $1,702 payment is Alaska’s 2025 Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD). It’s money from the state’s oil and natural resource earnings, shared with eligible residents every year. The payment isn’t a loan—you don’t have to pay it back. It’s designed to help with expenses like rent, groceries, or utility bills, especially during tough economic times.
Why Is This Payment Happening?
Alaska created the PFD program in 1976 to share its oil wealth with residents. The Alaska Permanent Fund Corporation (APFC) invests oil revenue in things like stocks and real estate. Each year, about 5% of the fund’s earnings are paid out as dividends. For 2025, this amount is $1,702 per person, including a base dividend of $1,403.83 and a $298.17 energy relief bonus to help with rising fuel and heating costs.
How Does It Compare to Past Payments?
The 2025 PFD of $1,702 is higher than the 2024 payment of $1,312, thanks to extra oil revenue set aside by lawmakers. This boost makes it a meaningful support for Alaskans facing inflation and high living costs.
Who Can Get the $1,702 Payment?
Not everyone qualifies for the PFD. Here are the main requirements to be eligible:
Eligibility Requirements
- Residency: You must have lived in Alaska for all of 2024 and plan to stay there permanently.
- Time in Alaska: You need to have been physically in Alaska for at least 72 hours in 2023 or 2024.
- Absences: If you were out of Alaska for more than 180 days in 2024, you must have a valid reason, like school, medical treatment, or military service.
- Criminal Record: You cannot have a felony conviction in 2024 or multiple minor felony convictions.
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen or a legal resident with a valid Social Security Number (SSN). People with Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) don’t qualify.
- Application: Every person, including children, must submit their own application by the deadline.
Who Doesn’t Qualify?
- Non-residents of Alaska.
- People who missed the application deadline (April 2025).
- Individuals with certain criminal convictions in 2024.
- Those who don’t meet the residency or physical presence rules.
Payment Schedule for July 2025
The $1,702 PFD payments are distributed in phases, depending on when your application is marked “Eligible-Not Paid.” Here’s the schedule for 2025:
| Application Status Date | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| June 11, 2025 | June 18, 2025 |
| July 9, 2025 | July 17, 2025 |
| August 13, 2025 | August 21, 2025 |
How Will You Get the Payment?
- Direct Deposit: If you provided bank details, the money will go straight to your account. This is the fastest way.
- Paper Check: If you didn’t set up direct deposit, a check will be mailed, which may take longer.
- EIP Card: Some payments may go to an Economic Impact Payment (EIP) card if you’re enrolled in certain government programs.
If you don’t get your payment by August 10, 2025, contact the Alaska PFD office to check your status.
How to Apply for the $1,702 Payment
Applying for the PFD is straightforward, but you need to act on time. Here’s what to do:
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Visit the Official Website: Go to pfd.alaska.gov.
- Create an Account: Set up or log into a myAlaska account.
- Fill Out the Application: Provide your personal details, proof of residency, and banking information for direct deposit.
- Submit by Deadline: Applications for 2025 must be submitted between February 1 and April 30, 2025. Late applications aren’t accepted.
- Check Your Status: Use the PFD website to track your application and ensure it’s marked “Eligible-Not Paid” before payment dates.
Tips to Avoid Problems
- Double-check your bank or mailing information.
- Provide documents proving residency if asked.
- Apply early to avoid missing the April 30 deadline.
- Contact the PFD office if you face issues.
Tax Information You Need to Know
The $1,702 PFD is considered taxable income by the IRS, even though Alaska doesn’t tax it. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Report It on Your Taxes: Include the payment when filing your 2025 federal tax return.
- Adjust Withholding: If you’re worried about owing taxes, adjust your tax withholding now to avoid surprises.
- Keep Records: Save proof of the payment for tax season.
Talk to a tax professional if you’re unsure how this affects your taxes.
Why the PFD Matters
The $1,702 payment can make a big difference for Alaskan families and individuals. Here are some ways it helps:
- Covers Essentials: Use it for rent, groceries, or utility bills.
- Saves for Emergencies: Many Alaskans save their PFD for unexpected costs.
- Boosts Local Economy: When people spend their PFD, it supports Alaskan businesses.
For example, a family of four could receive $6,808 (4 x $1,702), providing a cushion for school supplies, winter heating, or other needs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure you get your payment on time, avoid these errors:
- Missing the Deadline: Apply by April 30, 2025, or wait until 2026.
- Wrong Information: Incorrect bank or mailing details can delay your payment.
- Not Proving Residency: Provide documents if you were out of state for part of 2024.
- Ignoring Status Updates: Check your application status regularly on the PFD website.
FAQ About the $1,702 Stimulus Payment
Is the $1,702 payment a federal stimulus check?
No, it’s part of Alaska’s Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) program, funded by state oil revenue, not a federal program.
Do SSI or SSDI recipients qualify?
Yes, if they meet Alaska’s residency and other eligibility rules, they can apply for the PFD.
Is the payment taxable?
Yes, the IRS considers the PFD taxable income. Report it on your 2025 federal tax return.
What if I miss the payment?
If you don’t get your payment by August 10, 2025, contact the Alaska PFD office to check your application status.
Can non-Alaskans get the payment?
No, only Alaska residents who lived in the state for all of 2024 and meet other requirements qualify.
Do children qualify?
Yes, every eligible person, including children, can receive $1,702 if they submit an application.
Conclusion
The $1,702 stimulus payment in July 2025 is a valuable opportunity for Alaska residents to ease financial stress. Through the Permanent Fund Dividend program, this payment shares the state’s oil wealth with eligible individuals and families. To get yours, ensure you meet the residency and eligibility rules, apply by April 30, 2025, and keep your information updated. Whether you use it for bills, savings, or other needs, this payment can provide real relief. Stay informed, apply on time, and check your status to secure your $1,702 without delays. For more details, visit pfd.alaska.gov.
