The first Alaska Permanent Fund dividend payments of about $3,200 will be distributed to eligible Alaskans on Sept. 20, Gov. Mike Dunleavy announced Friday. The rollout date is about a month earlier than when payments are typically distributed in early October, a press release from the governor’s office said.

All Alaskans whose PFD applications have been approved by Sept. 9 will receive the one-time payment of $3,200, which includes dividend payments of roughly $2,600 as well as a one-time energy relief payment of $650. The exact payment amount will depend on how many people applied for a PFD this year.

This year’s PFD figure came after disagreements between the Alaska State House and Senate this year. Senators initially proposed a $5,500 payment, but the $3,200 figure will still be the largest ever paid out.

In announcing the early payment date, Dunleavy cited high gas prices in rural areas. He said that while some Alaskans wanted an earlier distribution, the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend Division needs more time to process and vet applications.

“We need to stop determining what amount the PFD will be using an arbitrary political process,” Dunleavy said in a Friday press release. “Alaskans deserve a constitutional amendment that protects the PFD from politicians and special interests, and sets out a funding formula we can all count on.”

Payments will be distributed on Sept. 20 for applicants who selected direct deposit on their PFD application. Those who filed a paper application or who requested a paper check will be distributed starting the week of Oct. 3.

Dunleavy’s full announcement can be viewed on his Facebook page.

Reach reporter Ashlyn O’Hara at ashlyn.ohara@peninsulaclarion.com.