In 2025, taxpayers have received their federal tax refunds from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), while residents of Alaska have benefited from the state’s Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD).
Understanding the differences in these payments can help individuals better plan their finances.
IRS Tax Refunds in 2025
The IRS issues tax refunds to taxpayers who have overpaid their taxes throughout the year. As of March 14, 2025, the average refund amount was $3,271, representing a 5.2% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Taxpayers opting for direct deposit received an average of $3,330.
Alaska’s Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) in 2025
The PFD is a unique program that distributes a portion of Alaska’s oil revenue to its residents. For the 2025 cycle, eligible Alaskans received a payment of $1,702.
To qualify, individuals must have resided in Alaska for the entire previous calendar year and intend to remain indefinitely. The application period for the 2025 PFD was open from January 1 to March 31, 2025.
Payment Schedules
- IRS Tax Refunds: Typically, taxpayers who file electronically and choose direct deposit receive their refunds within 21 days of filing. For example, an electronic filing on March 11, 2025, with direct deposit requested, would result in a refund by April 1, 2025.
- PFD Payments: The PFD payment schedule for 2025 is as follows:Application Status Payment Date Eligible-Not Paid as of March 12, 2025March 20, 2025Eligible-Not Paid as of April 9, 2025April 17, 2025Eligible-Not Paid as of May 7, 2025May 15, 2025
Comparison of Average Payments
The following table summarizes the average payment amounts for both IRS tax refunds and PFD payments in 2025:
| Payment Type | Average Amount ($) | Percentage of IRS Average Refund (%) |
|---|---|---|
| IRS Refund | 3,271 | 100% |
| PFD Payment | 1,702 | 52.0% |
In 2025, the average IRS tax refund significantly surpasses Alaska’s PFD payment. Taxpayers nationwide have received higher average refunds compared to the PFD amount, which is exclusive to Alaska residents. Individuals should consider their eligibility for both programs to maximize their benefits.
FAQs
What is the deadline to apply for Alaska’s 2025 PFD?
The application deadline for the 2025 PFD is March 31, 2025.
How long does it take to receive an IRS tax refund after filing?
Most taxpayers receive their IRS tax refunds within 21 days of filing electronically with direct deposit.
Can non-residents of Alaska apply for the PFD?
No, only Alaska residents who have lived in the state for the entire previous calendar year and intend to remain indefinitely are eligible for the PFD.