Stimulus payments have become a key financial tool for providing immediate relief to individuals and families during times of economic stress. While most Americans associate these payments with the federal government’s COVID-19 relief efforts, state governments also play an important role—particularly in areas rich in natural resources. This month, Alaska residents are receiving another round of payments through the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD)—a unique program that shares the state’s mineral wealth with its citizens.
Additionally, the IRS is still disbursing unclaimed federal stimulus checks, offering another opportunity for Americans to collect overdue relief funds. Here’s everything you need to know about this month’s stimulus updates.
IRS Is Still Issuing Unclaimed COVID-19 Stimulus Checks
The federal government distributed three rounds of stimulus payments during the COVID-19 pandemic, helping millions of Americans weather the economic downturn. However, not everyone received or claimed these payments at the time.
The IRS estimates that about 1 million people never claimed their Economic Impact Payments or Recovery Rebate Credits. As a result, approximately $2.4 billion in unclaimed stimulus funds are now being redistributed.
Who’s Eligible?
- Individuals who did not file a tax return in the year the stimulus was issued.
- Those who had no income or earned below the filing threshold.
- People who may have experienced mail delivery errors, especially those without direct deposit info on file.
How to Claim:
The IRS has been automatically issuing payments to those who are owed funds and have updated information on file. If you believe you’re eligible, you can:
- Check your tax transcripts via the IRS website.
- File a late tax return if required.
- Use the IRS’s “Get My Payment” tool for status updates.
Alaska’s $1,702 Stimulus Payments: What You Need to Know
Unlike traditional stimulus payments aimed at economic relief, Alaska’s payments are part of the state’s Permanent Fund Dividend—a program designed to share profits from the state’s mineral resources with its residents.
What Is the Alaska PFD?
Established in 1982, the Permanent Fund Dividend pays eligible Alaskans a portion of the state’s oil and gas revenues each year. For 2025, the PFD payment amount is $1,702 per person.
Payment Timeline
The latest round of payments began in October 2024, with the final main batch issued on March 20, 2025. However, additional payments are scheduled for those with late or previously unpaid applications:
| Eligibility Status Date | Payment Release Date |
|---|---|
| By April 9, 2025 | April 17, 2025 |
| By May 7, 2025 | May 15, 2025 |
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the 2025 payment, applicants must:
- Be a resident of Alaska for at least one full calendar year prior to applying.
- Intend to remain in Alaska indefinitely.
- Have spent at least 72 hours in the state in the last 24 months.
- Not have been incarcerated for a felony in the previous 12 months.
- Not have more than two misdemeanor convictions since 1997.
Other State-Level Support Programs
Many states, recognizing the financial strain on low- and middle-income households, have implemented their own tax rebates and financial assistance programs.
Florida’s TCA Program (Temporary Cash Assistance)
Florida’s TCA is designed for low-income families with children under 18, providing temporary financial support while the household works toward permanent employment.
TCA Eligibility Highlights:
- Must be a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen.
- Have children under 18 in the household.
- Meet specific income and asset limits.
- Participate in work-related activities as a condition of receiving aid.
Whether it’s the IRS continuing to issue unclaimed federal stimulus checks or Alaska distributing its resource-based PFD payments, stimulus efforts remain ongoing in the United States. These payments offer timely assistance—especially for lower-income individuals and families still recovering from pandemic-era economic disruptions.
If you’re a resident of Alaska or someone who may have missed a federal stimulus payment, now is a great time to check your eligibility, file necessary paperwork, and make sure you’re receiving what you’re entitled to.
FAQs
How can I find out if I have an unclaimed federal stimulus check?
Visit the IRS website and use the “Get My Payment” tool or check your tax transcripts through your IRS account.
Do I need to pay taxes on the Alaska PFD?
Yes. The PFD is considered taxable income at the federal level but not taxable by the state of Alaska.
What if I missed the March PFD payment date?
If your application status becomes “Eligible-Unpaid” or “Eligible-Not Paid” before April 9 or May 7, you’ll be included in the April 17 or May 15 payout.
Are there still state stimulus payments in other states?
Yes, some states continue to offer rebates or tax credits depending on revenue surpluses and policy decisions.