Payroll

Alaska Payroll Card Rules Are Now in Effect: What Employers Need to Know

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Last Updated: July 31, 2026

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Alaska employers may pay wages by payroll card under SB 79, effective July 1, 2026, subject to new compliance requirements.

Employers may use a pay card only if the employee voluntarily authorizes it or has not authorized direct deposit under AS 23.10.043.

New Payroll Card Obligations

Before issuing a card, employers must disclose:

Wage payment options
Card terms and fees
How to access wages and check balances for free, and
That non-issuer fees may apply.

Cards must allow at least one free withdrawal each week or pay period, whichever is longer, up to the employee’s full net wages, plus unlimited free balance checks by phone and electronically.

Employers may not offer cards that charge application, enrollment, participation, card issuance, wage transfer, or point-of-sale purchase fees. Card funds must also pass through the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or the National Credit Union Administration (or an equivalent deposit insurer).

More info: Alaska Payroll Card Law (SB 79)

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