Residents of Alaska are set to receive a significant financial boost this year. Under the 2025 Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) program, eligible Alaskans are receiving a payment of $1,000. This payment is distributed annually to citizens as a share of the state’s earnings from oil and natural resources. This year’s distribution is taking place in two phases during October and November 2025.
Below is a detailed explanation of who is eligible for this $1,000 payment, when and how the payments will be made, and what to do if you want to track your check or deposit.
Table of Contents
What is the PFD and its purpose?
Alaska’s Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) is a unique program that distributes a portion of the state’s earnings from oil and natural resources to its citizens every year. Its main purpose is to maintain the state’s economic stability and allow citizens to share in these revenues.
In 2025, the state confirmed that every eligible individual would receive a $1,000 PFD payment. This amount is being distributed in two phases between October and November 2025.
First Distribution – October 2, 2025
The first payment was issued to applicants who applied online and selected direct deposit.
These applicants received their payment on October 2, 2025. This process was fast and digital, with the funds appearing in most people’s bank accounts the same day.
Second Distribution – October 23, 2025
The second payment phase began on October 23, 2025. This included applicants who applied using a paper form or chose to receive their payment as a paper check.
Funds were deposited into direct deposit accounts the same day, while those receiving paper checks had to wait a few days due to postal delivery times.
November and Subsequent Monthly Payments
Applications that were in “Eligible—Not Paid” status after October 13th will be distributed in the third week of November 2025 (November 20, 2025). Even so, as new applications are deemed “eligible,” payments will continue to be issued on a monthly basis.
Special Instructions for Western Alaska
On October 23, 2025, the PFD office announced that the post offices in the communities of Kipnuk, Kwigillingok, and Napakiak are temporarily closed. Therefore, checks issued for these areas are currently being held at the PFD office.
Residents of these areas are instructed to email dor.pfd.payments@alaska.gov or call (907) 269-0370 (Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) to have their checks forwarded to an alternate address.
How to Check Your Application Status
If you applied for the 2025 PFD, you can check your application status by visiting the “myPFD” portal.
- If your status shows “PAID,” click the “Details” button.
- This will show you how and when the payment was issued.
If your address has changed or your bank account has been updated, please make the changes immediately by logging into myPFD. If you submitted a paper application, download and submit the Address Change Form or Payment Method Form from the PFD website. Note that no bank or address changes will be accepted over the phone.
Important Warning: Beware of Phishing Messages
Recently, some individuals have been receiving fraudulent text messages from something called myAlaska, asking them to change their password. myAlaska will never send a text or email asking you to change your password.
If you receive such a message, ignore it and do not click on any links.
Mission and Transparency
According to PFD Division Director Genevieve Wojtusik, the mission of this program is to ensure that all eligible Alaskans receive their benefits in a timely and secure manner, while also strictly preventing any type of fraud and treating all citizens fairly.
Comparison to Previous Years
In 2024, the PFD amount was $1,702, while in 2025 it decreased to $1,000. This was attributed to fluctuations in oil prices and a decrease in state revenue.
Although the amount has decreased, this payment will still provide financial relief for thousands of families, especially during a period of rising inflation.
What to Do If You Can’t Get Through
On October 1, 2025, the PFD department stated that call volume is currently very high. If you are unable to reach them by phone, please try again later.
Office and phone hours are Monday through Friday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Instructions for Address and Banking Changes
If you have recently moved or changed your bank details, please notify the PFD Division immediately.
- If your account is linked to myAlaska, changes can be made directly online.
- Otherwise, you can download and submit the relevant forms from the PFD website.
Please note that no changes will be accepted over the phone.
Complete Payment Schedule
| Distribution Type | Payment Date | Eligible Applicants |
|---|---|---|
| First Disbursement | October 2, 2025 | Online filers with Direct Deposit |
| Second Disbursement | October 23, 2025 | Paper applicants or Check recipients |
| Next Scheduled Payout | November 20, 2025 | Remaining eligible applicants |
Conclusion
Alaska’s $1,000 PFD payment is not just financial relief but a symbol of citizens’ share in the state’s shared wealth. Before the upcoming payment in November 2025, all eligible applicants are advised to update their address and bank details and check their application status on myPFD.
This payment will provide economic support for thousands of families, especially those living in rural or remote areas.
FAQs
Q. What is the 2025 PFD payment amount?
A. The 2025 Permanent Fund Dividend is $1,000 per eligible Alaskan.
Q. When will the first payment be issued?
A. The first disbursement for online filers with direct deposit will be on October 2, 2025.
Q. How can I check my payment status?
A. Log in to your myPFD account to see your payment status and details.
Q. What if I moved or changed my bank account?
A. Submit your updated address or banking info through myPFD or the PFD forms online; changes cannot be taken over the phone.
Q. When is the next scheduled payout for remaining applicants?
A. The next payout is scheduled for November 20, 2025, for eligible applicants who have not yet been paid.
