As 2025 unfolds, many Americans are wondering whether they qualify for IRS payments or the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD). These payments can provide significant financial relief, but eligibility depends on various factors, including past tax filings and residency requirements.

This article breaks down the key details about IRS payments, unclaimed tax refunds, the Child Tax Credit, and the Alaska PFD.

IRS Payments: Who Qualifies and How to Claim?

1. Recovery Rebate Credit (Third Stimulus Check)

The Recovery Rebate Credit is for individuals who missed out on the third round of Economic Impact Payments (stimulus checks) issued in 2021. If you didn’t receive the full amount back then, you might still be eligible to claim it.

• Eligibility:
  • You did not receive the full third stimulus check.
  • You were eligible in 2021 but didn’t file a tax return.
  • Your circumstances changed, making you eligible for additional funds.
• Payment Amount:
  • Up to $1,400 per individual.
  • Additional funds for qualifying dependents.
• How to Claim:
  • File your 2021 federal tax return before April 15, 2025 to claim the credit.

For more details, visit the IRS Recovery Rebate Credit page.

2. Unclaimed Tax Refunds from 2021

According to the IRS, over 1.1 million Americans have unclaimed tax refunds from 2021. If you didn’t file your tax return that year, you may be missing out on money owed to you.

• Eligibility:
  • You didn’t file your 2021 federal tax return.
  • You had taxable income that resulted in an overpayment.
• Estimated Refund Amount:
  • The median refund varies by state but is generally several hundred dollars.
• How to Claim:
  • File your 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025 to receive your refund.

3. Child Tax Credit

Many families may still be eligible for the expanded Child Tax Credit (CTC) from 2021. If you didn’t claim it that year, you can still do so.

• Eligibility:
  • You had children under age 18 in 2021.
  • Your income was within the eligible limits.
• Payment Amount:
  • Up to $3,600 per child under 6.
  • Up to $3,000 per child aged 6-17.
• How to Claim:
  • File a 2021 tax return before April 15, 2025.

the IRS Child Tax Credit page for more information.

Avoiding Tax Penalties

The IRS urges taxpayers to file and pay any owed amounts by April 15, 2025, to avoid penalties. Late filing can result in fees of up to 25% of unpaid taxes.

Additionally, starting September 30, 2025, the U.S. government will shift to electronic payments for Social Security checks and tax refunds. Ensure your direct deposit information is up-to-date at www.irs.gov.

Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) Payments

The Alaska PFD provides annual payments to eligible Alaskan residents. This dividend comes from the state’s oil revenue and helps residents benefit from Alaska’s natural resources.

• Eligibility:
  • You must have been an Alaska resident for the entire 2024 calendar year.
  • You must intend to remain in Alaska indefinitely.
  • You cannot have been convicted of certain crimes.
• Application Period:
  • Opened on January 1, 2025 and closed on March 31, 2025.
• Estimated Payment Amount:
  • The 2025 amount has not been finalized but is expected to be around $1,400, based on past years.
• Payment Dates:
  • If your application is in “Eligible-Not Paid” status by:
    • March 12, 2025 → Paid on March 20, 2025
    • April 9, 2025 → Paid on April 17, 2025
    • May 7, 2025 → Paid on May 15, 2025

Conclusion

With the 2025 deadlines approaching, it’s essential to take action if you’re eligible for IRS payments or the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD). Whether you’re owed a stimulus payment, an unclaimed tax refund, or a Child Tax Credit, filing your 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025, could mean receiving hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Similarly, Alaskans who applied for the PFD can expect payments if they meet residency requirements.