Stimulus checks are among the most widely used tools by federal and state governments to deliver immediate financial support to citizens. These payments are not designed to solve long-term economic struggles but do help ease short-term financial pressure for households.
This September, one state is sending out stimulus checks to nearly all of its residents, providing timely relief when families need it most.
Why Stimulus Checks Matter
Stimulus payments act as a direct intervention during times of economic uncertainty. By putting money into people’s hands quickly, governments can stimulate spending and reduce the risk of recession.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Biden administration issued three rounds of Economic Impact Payments (EIPs) between March 2020 and March 2021. These payments supported millions of households facing unemployment and financial hardship—levels not seen since the Great Depression.
The most recent tax season offered a final chance to claim the third EIP worth $1,400. While there were rumors of a $5,000 federal stimulus check earlier this year, no federal agency confirmed its release.
However, a confirmed initiative from the Trump administration—known as “Trump Accounts”—will provide $1,000 per child for babies born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028. Parents or caregivers can also contribute up to $5,000 annually into these accounts.
Alaska’s Annual Stimulus: The $1,702 Payment
Unlike federal relief checks that are issued during emergencies, some states run annual stimulus programs. The most prominent is the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD), managed by the Alaska Department of Revenue.
This program allows about 600,000 Alaskans to share in the state’s oil and mineral revenue. For 2025, the dividend amounts to $1,702 per person.
Eligibility Criteria for Alaska’s PFD
To qualify for the payment, residents must meet the following conditions:
- Have lived in Alaska for at least 12 months with no intention of leaving.
- If temporarily out of state (for education or military service), must have spent at least 72 consecutive hours in Alaska within the last 24 months.
- Must not have been incarcerated for a felony in the past 12 months.
- If previously convicted of a felony or two misdemeanors since 1997, the applicant must have no misdemeanors in the past year.
Payment Distribution Dates
Alaskans who meet eligibility requirements can expect their stimulus payments according to the following schedule:
| Eligibility Status | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 2024 (and prior) dividend applications in “Eligible-Not Paid” by Sept 3, 2025 | Sept 11, 2025 |
| 2025 (and prior) applications in “Eligible-Not Paid” by Sept 18, 2025 | Oct 2, 2025 |
| 2025 (and prior) applications in “Eligible-Not Paid” by Oct 13, 2025 | Oct 23, 2025 |
The first round of payments was already distributed on August 21, 2025, and further payments will continue into October.
The $1,702 Alaska PFD stimulus payment offers valuable financial relief to residents, reaffirming the state’s commitment to sharing its resource wealth.
While nationwide stimulus programs remain uncertain, Alaska’s annual dividend serves as a consistent source of support. For residents, meeting the eligibility rules ensures access to this benefit at a time when every dollar counts.
FAQs
To qualify, residents must have lived in Alaska for 12 months, avoided felony incarceration in the past year, and meet specific residency rules if temporarily outside the state.
Payments will be issued on September 11, October 2, and October 23, 2025, depending on application status.
No federal $5,000 stimulus has been confirmed. However, the Trump Accounts program will provide $1,000 for children born between 2025 and 2028.