Not all Americans will receive a $1,702 stimulus payment, but inflation relief checks are likely to be sent out eventually.
In October 2025, rumors have circulated about a nationwide $1,702 stimulus payment. However, these claims are based on misunderstandings and do not reflect federal policy. In reality, the $1,702 figure pertains to Alaska’s Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD), a state-specific program, and not a federal stimulus initiative.
Alaska’s Permanent Fund Dividend $1,702 Stimulus Payment
The PFD is an annual payment distributed to eligible Alaska residents, funded by the state’s oil revenues. For the year 2024, the PFD was set at $1,702 per eligible resident. This amount includes both the regular dividend and a one-time energy relief supplement. However, for 2025, the PFD has been reduced to $1,000 per eligible resident. The distribution of this year’s dividend is occurring in two phases:
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October 2, 2025: For online applicants marked as “Eligible-Not Paid” by September 18, 2025.
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October 23, 2025: For applicants marked as “Eligible-Not Paid” by October 13, 2025, who submitted paper applications or chose to receive their payment by physical check.
To qualify for the PFD, applicants must meet specific residency and legal criteria, including being a resident of Alaska for the entire 2024 calendar year and not having been convicted of a felony during that period. Eligible residents can check their application status and payment details through the official Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend website.
State-Level Inflation Relief Checks
While there is no federal stimulus check planned for 2025, several states have implemented their own inflation relief measures to assist residents facing rising costs. These programs vary by state and are typically funded through budget surpluses or higher-than-expected tax revenues.
New York
New York has begun distributing one-time “inflation refund” payments of up to $400 to eligible taxpayers. These payments are intended to provide financial relief amid rising living costs and are funded by the state’s surplus tax revenues. Eligibility criteria include income thresholds and filing status, and payments are being issued automatically to qualifying residents.
Other States
Other states, such as Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Colorado, have also introduced one-time rebates or refunds for eligible taxpayers. These programs are often tied to property tax or sales tax payments and aim to alleviate financial burdens caused by inflation. Eligibility requirements and payment amounts vary by state, and residents are encouraged to check with their state’s revenue department for specific details.
Federal Stimulus Check Rumors
Despite widespread speculation, there is no new federal stimulus check scheduled for 2025. The last federal stimulus payment was the $1,400 Recovery Rebate Credit from 2021, with a final filing deadline of April 15, 2025. Any new federal stimulus initiative would require Congressional approval, and as of now, no such legislation has been passed.
Rumors about a $1,702 federal stimulus check are based on the Alaska PFD and are not applicable to residents outside Alaska. Additionally, some proposals, such as the American Worker Rebate Act of 2025, have been introduced in Congress but have not been approved or scheduled for a vote.
Looking Ahead to Inflation Relief Checks
While Alaska residents may receive a $1,000 PFD in October 2025, there is no nationwide $1,702 stimulus payment. Residents of other states should be aware of their state’s specific relief programs, as these vary widely in eligibility and amount. It’s important to rely on official state and federal sources for accurate information and to be cautious of scams or misinformation regarding stimulus payments.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, residents should consult their state’s official revenue department website or the IRS website.