The PFD and Leaving Alaska

How PFD eligibility works

The Permanent Fund Dividend isn't a payment for living in Alaska on a given day. It's tied to a qualifying year, generally the calendar year before you apply. To be eligible you generally must have been an Alaska resident for that entire year, intend to remain an Alaska resident indefinitely, not have claimed residency elsewhere, and meet physical presence and absence rules.

The application period has traditionally run from January 1 to March 31. Payment usually comes in the fall.

Intent to remain: the part movers miss

Eligibility usually requires that you intend to remain an Alaska resident indefinitely at the time you apply. If you've already decided to move permanently, that can affect eligibility. If your plans change after you apply, the PFD Division may expect you to update your information.

This is where we can't give a simple yes or no. The honest advice: read the official eligibility rules, and if your situation is close, contact the PFD Division directly and keep a record of the answer.

Allowable absences

Alaska allows certain absences without losing residency for PFD purposes. Examples include military service, full-time education, and some medical and work situations, each with conditions. These rules are about temporary absence with intent to return, not a permanent move.

Timing your departure

People often ask whether to move before or after applying, or before or after the payment arrives. Because eligibility depends on residency during the qualifying year and intent at application, there isn't one answer for everyone. Things to weigh:

• Where you file taxes, register to vote, and hold a driver's license after the move
• When you sign a lease or buy a home elsewhere
• Whether you claim residency in another state for tuition, taxes or other benefits

Claiming residency in another state can disqualify you.

Pending applications after you move

If you applied while eligible and then moved, keep your mailing address and contact information current with the PFD Division, respond to any requests, and check your application status online. Never give false information on an application, because penalties apply.

Other Alaska residency ties

Leaving also affects resident hunting and fishing licenses through ADF&G and voter registration through the Division of Elections. Using resident privileges after you've moved can be a violation. The upcoming "Ending Alaska residency" guide covers this in full.