$1,702 Stimulus Checks Arriving Soon: Here’s How to Claim Yours!

Stimulus checks are always a pleasant surprise for many, designed to provide immediate financial assistance and encourage spending within the economy. These checks are issued by both federal and state governments. The COVID-19 pandemic saw the federal government issuing three rounds of stimulus checks. This month, Alaskans will be receiving a new stimulus check derived from the profits of state resource sales.

Unclaimed Stimulus Funds Still Being Distributed by the IRS

Stimulus checks are crucial in aiding citizens during emergencies. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government responded to the economic crises that left many unemployed and vulnerable by issuing three separate stimulus disbursements to help manage unexpected expenses.

There are still about $2.4 billion in unclaimed stimulus payments from the Covid-19 relief efforts, affecting roughly one million eligible individuals. The IRS has started to automatically distribute these funds to qualified recipients earlier this year.

$1,702 Stimulus Check Issued to Eligible Alaskans

While federal stimulus payments were issued during COVID-19, state-level disbursements are also common. This month, Alaskan residents can look forward to their 2025 Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD), managed by the Alaska Department of Revenue, which distributes profits from the state’s mineral resources.

“The mission of the Permanent Fund Dividend program is to ensure all eligible Alaska residents receive their dividends promptly, pursue any instances of fraud, and treat all stakeholders with respect,” stated Genevieve Wojtusik, the division director.

This year, the dividend amounts to $1,702. Distribution began in October 2024, with the final payments being issued on March 20, 2025. Eligibility criteria for these funds include:

• A minimum residency in Alaska for one year before applying
• An intention to remain in Alaska indefinitely at the time of application
• A minimum of 72 hours spent in Alaska over the past two years
• No felony imprisonment in the last 12 months or more than two misdemeanor convictions since January 1, 1997

While the last payments were distributed on March 20, additional distributions are scheduled for later this year:

• Eligible-unpaid dividend requests from 2024 (and previous years) by April 9, 2025, will be paid on April 17, 2025.
• Eligible-not paid dividend requests from 2024 (and previous years) by May 7, 2025, will be paid on May 15, 2025.

State Programs Aim to Support Low- and Middle-Income Families

Stimulus checks are particularly beneficial for low- and middle-income individuals. States have initiated various programs and tax rebates to assist these groups. Florida’s TCA program, for example, helps low-income families with children under 18 by providing temporary financial assistance while they seek more stable employment. Applicants must meet several criteria to qualify for this aid.