Residents of Alaska are set to receive a new round of economic relief this month. The state’s Department of Revenue has confirmed the distribution schedule for the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD), with the next major payment date fast approaching in February 2026.
This payment is a long-standing tradition in Alaska. It is designed to encourage people to live in the state and to help families cover the costs of basic needs and services.
Important Dates for February 2026
If you are expecting a payment, there are two dates you need to know:
- February 11, 2026: This is the administrative "cutoff" date. To receive your money in the upcoming round, your application status must be listed as "Eligible-Not Paid" by this day.
- February 19, 2026: This is the date the state will officially issue the next round of dividend payments.
Who Qualifies for the Payment?
The PFD is not a federal "stimulus" check from the U.S. government. Instead, it is a share of the state's investment earnings from its natural resources (specifically oil revenue). To be eligible, residents must meet strict criteria:
- Continuous Residency: You must have lived in Alaska for the entire qualifying year before applying.
- Intent to Stay: You must demonstrate that you plan to remain an Alaska resident indefinitely.
- Legal Status: You cannot have been incarcerated or have certain criminal convictions during the qualifying year.
What is the Alaska PFD?
The PFD was established in 1976 after voters approved a change to the state constitution.
The goal was to ensure that a portion of the state's wealth—largely from oil drilling at Prudhoe Bay—was set aside for future generations and shared directly with the people living there.
How to Check Your Status
If you have not received your payment yet, you should check your application status on the official Alaska PFD website. Many residents use the "myAlaska" online portal to see if they are approved.
If you are having trouble with the website, you can also use the "printed signature" option to update your file or fix any issues that might be delaying your money.
-
Read next: How to File Your Taxes for Free: A Guide for Low-Income Households
