As 2025 begins, many Americans are asking whether they’ll receive another round of stimulus payments. One figure that keeps popping up is the $1,702 payment. So, what is it exactly—and is it available to everyone? The truth is, this payment is real, but it’s specific to Alaska residents through the state’s Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) program. Here’s everything you need to know about the $1,702 stimulus, including who qualifies, how to claim it, and how it differs from federal relief payments.
Overview
The $1,702 stimulus payment is not a new federal check. It’s Alaska’s annual Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD), which distributes a portion of the state’s oil revenue to eligible residents. In 2024, the PFD amount was $1,702, and although the exact number for 2025 hasn’t been confirmed yet, it’s expected to be similar.
So if you’re not living in Alaska—or didn’t meet the residency requirements for the previous year—this payment won’t apply to you. But for eligible Alaskans, it’s a meaningful financial boost.
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | $1,702 (expected) |
| Eligibility | Alaska residents meeting income and residency criteria |
| Payment Timeline | Payouts expected in October 2025 |
| Application Window | January 1 to March 31, 2025 |
| Where to Apply | Alaska PFD website (pfd.alaska.gov) |
History
The Alaska PFD program was launched in 1982 as a way to share the state’s oil wealth with its people. Since then, it has become an annual tradition, with eligible residents receiving a dividend each fall. The amount varies based on oil revenue and other economic factors, but it’s often in the $1,000–$2,000 range.
In 2024, the payment hit $1,702—a solid amount that helped many households offset the high cost of living in Alaska.
Eligibility
To qualify for the 2025 PFD payment, here’s what you need:
- You must have been a full-year Alaska resident during 2024
- You must intend to remain a resident indefinitely
- You cannot have claimed residency in another state
- You must apply between January 1 and March 31, 2025
If you meet all of these, you’re likely eligible. But be sure to apply before the deadline to avoid missing out.
Benefits
For Alaskans, the PFD payment is more than just a yearly bonus. It helps with everyday expenses, winter heating bills, savings goals, and even back-to-school shopping. Here are two real-life examples:
- Jane from Anchorage used her 2024 PFD to buy school supplies and cover heating costs.
- Tom and Sarah from Fairbanks put theirs into a retirement savings account to grow long-term wealth.
This annual dividend truly helps Alaskans weather the unique challenges of living in the Last Frontier.
Federal Relief
Now, let’s talk about that other number you might’ve seen: $1,400. This relates to the Recovery Rebate Credit, not a new stimulus. The IRS is issuing $1,400 payments in early 2025 to people who didn’t get their full 2021 stimulus.
To qualify:
- You must be a U.S. citizen or resident
- You must have earned less than these limits in 2021:
- $80,000 (single)
- $160,000 (married)
- $112,500 (head of household)
You don’t need to apply separately—the IRS will send it automatically if you’re eligible.
Application
If you’re applying for the PFD payment, here’s what to do:
- Check Eligibility – You must have lived in Alaska for all of 2024
- Apply Online – Submit your application at pfd.alaska.gov by March 31, 2025
- Track Status – Use the portal to check your application’s progress
- Receive Payment – Most payments are sent by direct deposit in October
It’s simple and all online, but don’t wait till the last minute—get it done early.
Taxes
For Alaska residents, there’s a nice perk: the PFD payment isn’t taxed at the state level. But the IRS does consider it taxable income. That means you’ll need to report it on your federal tax return under miscellaneous income.
If you’re not sure how to report it, a tax professional can help ensure you do it right.
Problems
If you run into issues during the application process:
- Log in to the PFD portal and review your application status
- If your application is denied, file an appeal through the website
- For other issues, contact PFD customer support directly
They can help with everything from technical glitches to eligibility questions.
FAQs
Is the $1,702 stimulus a federal payment?
No, it’s a state payment for Alaska residents through the PFD program.
Who qualifies for the Alaska PFD payment?
Full-year residents of Alaska who plan to stay and apply by March 31.
When will the $1,702 payment be made?
Most payments are issued in October 2025.
Do I need to report the PFD on taxes?
Yes, it’s taxable income federally but not taxed by the state.
How do I apply for the PFD payment?
Apply online at pfd.alaska.gov between January 1 and March 31, 2025.
