Stimulus update 2022: Direct payments worth up to $3,200 to be sent to eligible Alaskans in just eight days

Eligible Alaska residents can look forward to direct payments in as soon as eight days to assist with the rising cost of energy and everyday items.

The approved direct checks will give Alaskans payments of up to $3,284 thanks to a provision in the annual budget passed by the state legislature earlier this year along with the annual dividend distribution from the Permanent Fund Dividend, according to the state.

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The direct checks will be delivered to eligible Alaskans via direct deposit starting on Sept. 20, with all residents receiving the payment by the end of the year. Alaskans will receive the payment either via direct deposit or paper check, with the latter option not being sent out until October.

The state Senate originally pushed for and approved a $5,500 total direct payment. The supporters of this larger payment said it would help with the economic stresses affecting Alaskans, including energy costs.

The payment was later negotiated down to closer to $3,200 after the state House refused to sign on to the larger checks. Republican Gov. Mike Dunleavy signed the provision into law with the rest of the bill, which contained the state’s annual budget.

“This budget is more than a spending plan. It’s a blueprint for Alaska’s future. Budgets should reflect the values and ambitions of the people they are designed for, and I believe this legislation accomplishes that,” Dunleavy said.

The relief for residents is included in the annual dividend from the state’s Permanent Fund Dividend Division. The Alaska Permanent Fund has delivered to eligible residents payouts of varying amounts since 1982.

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The payments to residents will be the largest in the state’s history, according to a report from Alaska Public Media.