When 72-year-old Mary Thompson of Fairbanks opened her bank account on April 15, she couldn’t believe her eyes. “I spilled my coffee,” she laughed, “because I thought someone had made a mistake. But that $1,312 was real—and it came just when I needed it.”
The $1,312 payments arriving in 2025 are part of Alaska’s long-standing Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD), a yearly distribution funded by the state’s oil revenues. While outsiders might call it a “stimulus,” to many Alaskans it’s a tradition—one that can mean the difference between staying cozy through another winter or struggling to keep the lights on.
What’s Behind the $1,312 Payment?
Unlike federal stimulus checks, the PFD is Alaska’s own creation. Since 1976, the state has harvested its share of oil wealth and returned a slice to every eligible resident. This year’s figure of $1,312 reflects oil prices, fund performance, and legislative formulas. For some, it’s a small bonus; for others, a crucial source of support.
“It’s not just money,” says Anchorage teacher Luis Herrera. “It’s a reminder that we’re part of this state, that the community cares.” Herrera used his dividend to take his niece on her first museum trip—a small treat in a world where school and family budgets leave little room for extras.
Who Qualifies—And Who Might Be Surprised?
To get the 2025 payout, you must have lived in Alaska for at least one uninterrupted year before applying, intend to stay indefinitely, and not have spent more than 180 days out of state except for approved reasons like medical care or education. Criminal convictions for serious offenses can also bar you from participation.
Each person—child or adult—must file their own application. That means a family of four will need four separate submissions. The application window ran from January 1 to March 31, and most who applied on time and met the rules will see their money by mid-April.
For newcomers and seasonal workers, the rules can feel tricky. “We moved here last spring for a job,” explains fisherman Jack Riley of Kodiak Island. “We called the PFD office twice to make sure we qualified. It’s our home now, but I’d sure hate to miss out because of a technicality.”
How Payments Are Delivered
When you applied, you chose direct deposit or a mailed check. Direct deposit is fastest—most people saw the funds land in their accounts within hours of the release date. Paper checks take longer, especially for those in remote communities where mail only arrives twice a week.
In villages like Bethel, where winter temperatures can dip below –30°F, a direct deposit isn’t just convenient—it’s essential. “It’s hard enough to get groceries delivered,” says local store manager Katie Johnson. “Knowing the PFD is coming straight into our accounts helps everyone plan ahead.”
Real-World Impact: Stories from Across the State
In Fairbanks, retiree Mary used her dividend to cover grocery bills after a spike in food prices. In Seward, fishermen pooled their checks to repair nets torn by recent storms. Over in Barrow, educators like Herrera organized free museum trips for students who’d never stepped foot in one before.
“For some families, it pays tuition,” notes Anchorage financial counselor Tara Wong. “For others, it’s extra heating oil or a chance to finally replace a broken washing machine. That $1,312 can ripple through our economy in ways you might not expect.”
Staying Safe: Avoiding Scams
As news of the PFD spread, scammers have tried to pounce. Fake emails and phone calls ask for Social Security numbers or banking details, promising to “expedite” your dividend. Remember: the Alaska Department of Revenue will never reach out unsolicited. Always log into the official PFD site or call the number on the back of your last year’s award letter.
Looking Ahead: What the Future Holds
While the PFD remains unique to Alaska, discussions continue in other states and at the federal level about revenue-sharing models. For now, Alaska’s approach stands out—and its residents are unapologetically proud.
“I’ve lived here sixty years,” says Mary in Fairbanks. “I’ve seen booms and busts. But every year when that dividend hits, I remember why I stayed. It’s more than a check. It’s a part of who we are.”
As applicants review their eligibility and wait for the next distribution, one thing is clear: for many Alaskans, the $1,312 payment is more than a number—it’s a lifeline, a tradition, and a shared story that knits this vast state together.
