Many people are seeing online posts and articles about a $1702 stimulus check arriving in December 2025. These stories claim it’s a new federal payment to help with holiday costs, inflation, and bills, especially for low-income families, seniors, and benefit recipients. However, as of December 17, 2025, there is no new federal $1702 stimulus program. This amount comes from a misunderstanding of Alaska’s state-only Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD), not a nationwide check from the IRS or government.
This article explains the facts in simple words. We cover where the rumor started, the claimed eligibility and dates, why it’s false for most Americans, what the real Alaska payment is, and how to avoid scams. Always check official sites like IRS.gov or your state’s revenue department for accurate info.
Origins of the $1702 Stimulus Check Rumor
The $1702 figure comes from Alaska’s 2024 Permanent Fund Dividend, an annual payment from state oil revenues. In 2024, eligible Alaskans got $1702 each. Viral posts and misleading websites turned this state program into fake claims of a federal stimulus for everyone.
These rumors often say:
- It’s approved by the IRS for December delivery.
- Automatic for Social Security, SSI, SSDI recipients, or low-income people.
- Extra for children or dependents.
In reality, no federal law or announcement supports this. Fact-checks show it’s a hoax spreading on social media and clickbait sites.
Claimed Eligibility and Payment Details in the Rumors
Fake articles list rules like:
- Full $1702 for singles earning under $75,000 or couples under $150,000.
- Partial amounts phasing out at higher incomes.
- Extra $500 per child.
- Automatic for benefit recipients with no income limits.
Supposed dates:
- Direct deposits starting early December.
- Paper checks by late December or early January.
They suggest using a revived IRS “Get My Payment” tool. But no such federal tool or program exists for this.
The Truth: No Federal $1702 Check – It’s Likely Alaska’s PFD
The real $1702 was Alaska’s 2024 PFD payment. For 2025, Alaska has a different amount (often around $1,000–$1,300, depending on oil funds), paid to state residents only.
Nationwide:
- No new federal stimulus approved by Congress.
- IRS only handles tax refunds or old credits—no new checks.
- Last big stimulus ended in 2021; unclaimed amounts had deadlines in 2025.
Some small automatic payments went out earlier in 2025 for missed 2021 credits, but nothing new now.
Real vs. Rumored $1702 Payments
| Payment Type | Real or Rumored? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Federal $1702 Stimulus December 2025 | Rumored | No approval; based on misinformation |
| Automatic for SSI/SSDI/Seniors | Rumored | No extra federal money; only regular benefits |
| Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend | Real (state only) | Annual oil revenue share for Alaska residents; 2024 was $1702 |
| Tax Refunds | Real | From filing taxes; amounts vary |
| Old 2021 Recovery Credit | Real (ended) | Up to $1400 for some; deadlines passed |
What Real Help Is Available in December 2025
No big federal check, but check these:
- Regular monthly benefits (Social Security, SSI, VA) on normal schedule.
- Tax refunds if you filed amendments.
- State programs: Alaska residents may get their 2025 PFD; other states have rebates (check your state site).
Scam Warnings: Protect Yourself
Scammers use these rumors. Watch for:
- Messages saying “Your $1702 is approved—update info now.”
- Fake sites asking for Social Security number, bank details, or fees.
- Links to “check status” on non-official pages.
The real IRS:
- Never asks for info by text, email, or phone.
- Contacts by mail only.
- Uses IRS.gov tools.
Report scams to IRS.gov or FTC.gov.
How to Check Real Payments Safely
Steps:
- Visit IRS.gov for tax records or refunds.
- Log into my Social Security at SSA.gov for benefits.
- For Alaska PFD, use the official state site (pfd.alaska.gov).
- Update info only on .gov sites.
Conclusion
The $1702 stimulus check for December 2025 is a misleading rumor, often based on Alaska’s state-specific Permanent Fund Dividend—not a federal payment for everyone. No new nationwide checks are approved, and chasing these claims can lead to scams or wasted hope. Focus on real supports like your monthly benefits, tax refunds, or state-specific aid.
Stay safe by checking official government websites directly. Reliable facts help you manage money better during tough times.