$1,702 Stimulus Checks Coming This March – Are You Eligible?

If you reside in Alaska, the time to file for your 2025 Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) is now. This yearly payment, which is paid out of the state’s oil money, brings critical financial assistance to residents.

But how much will you receive this year? Although Governor Mike Dunleavy has indicated payments might be up to $3,900, lawmakers will decide how much.

Here’s all you need to know about the 2025 PFD stimulus checks, including who is eligible, when they’ll be paid, and how they affect the economy.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the 2025 PFD stimulus check, applicants should satisfy the following conditions:

• Should be a full-time Alaska resident for the whole 2024 calendar year.
• Should not have left Alaska for longer than 180 days except for approved purposes (military, education, or medical treatment).
• Should not have a past felony conviction within the last year.

The application window is between January 1 and March 31, 2025. Applications received late will not be considered.

Amount

The precise size of the 2025 PFD remains in dispute. Governor Mike Dunleavy prefers to pay out around $3,900 to each eligible Alaskan, but that plan would necessitate a draw of more than $1.5 billion from the state’s Constitutional Budget Reserve.

Legislators, though, might instead adopt a more restrained formula tied to 25% of the state’s yearly oil revenue drawdown, cutting the PFD to around $1,400.

Meanwhile, the projected stimulus payout for 2025 is $1,702, the same as in 2024 but less than in 2022. The actual amount will be determined during the legislative session.

Economic Impact

PFD checks are a significant factor in Alaska’s economy. The payments assist residents in meeting basic needs, including:

While most Alaskans spend the PFD on everyday needs, others set aside some of it for unexpected expenses. Some believe that instead of direct payments, the money should be diverted to public programs such as healthcare and education. Legislators also argue about the long-term viability of the PFD program.

Payment Timeline

For those who are eligible, the 2025 PFD stimulus check should be deposited by October 2025. Note that the IRS will treat PFD payments as taxable income, and residents should accordingly prepare for filing their taxes.

Alaska’s PFD is still an important source of money, but its future is the subject of constant political and economic debate. Whether it turns out to be $3,900 or more like $1,400, qualified residents should apply by the deadline to get their portion.

When Will the $1,702 Stimulus Payment Arrive?

• Payments will begin processing in early March 2025.
• Direct deposits will be prioritized, with most recipients receiving funds in the first two weeks of March.
• Paper checks may take longer and could arrive by late March or early April.

How to Track Your Stimulus Check

If you believe you’re eligible, you can track your payment using the following methods:

1. IRS “Get My Payment” Tool – Visit IRS.gov to check the status of your stimulus check.
2. Social Security Administration (SSA) Portal – If receiving Social Security benefits, log in to ssa.gov/myaccount for updates.
3. VA Benefits Portal – Veterans can track payments via va.gov.
4. Bank Alerts – Set up direct deposit notifications with your bank for real-time updates.

What If You Don’t Receive Your Payment?

If your $1,702 stimulus check does not arrive by the expected date:

• Ensure you filed your most recent tax return.
• Confirm your direct deposit details are correct.
• Contact the IRS or SSA for further assistance.

Final Thought

That $1,702 stimulus check would bring much welcome relief to countless Americans this March. Check where you stand, follow your check, and follow official word from the IRS, SSA, and VA to catch your money as it’s made available.

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