Alaska, New York Distribute Millions in Inflation, Permanent Fund Checks

In mid-2025, several states are issuing one-time payments to residents to alleviate the impact of inflation and rising living costs, though there is no new federal stimulus program. Alaska is distributing $1,702 payments through its Permanent Fund Dividend, which includes a regular dividend and an additional energy relief bonus, with eligibility based on residency and criminal record criteria. New York is issuing inflation rebate checks ranging from $150 to $400 for low- and middle-income taxpayers based on their tax filings, with payments expected from October and no action required from recipients. These payments are part of a broader $2 billion relief package aimed at supporting approximately 8 million New Yorkers, with eligibility linked to income thresholds and tax filing status. Other states, like Mississippi and California, continue their own guaranteed income programs providing monthly or annual payments to residents in need. These state-level initiatives collectively echo the intent of past federal stimulus checks by providing direct financial assistance to offset economic pressures caused by inflation.