Turbo Takeaways

Known for its rugged landscapes and close-knit communities, South Dakota offers a strong sense of tradition and belonging. Still, many households in the Mount Rushmore State face challenges when trying to keep up with basic living expenses.

With a median household income of $72,421, well below the national average of $78,538, economic pressure is a daily reality for many South Dakota families. Fortunately, various financial assistance programs can help South Dakotans cover essential needs like housing, food, healthcare, and utilities.

Explore the financial assistance programs South Dakota offers and take the next step toward greater stability and peace of mind.

Government Assistance Programs in South Dakota

Many South Dakotans rely on state-run support to manage daily expenses. These government programs provide a safety net for individuals and families experiencing financial hardship, offering help with essentials like food, medical care, and utilities.

Cash Assistance Programs

South Dakota offers cash assistance programs that provide direct support to help residents cover necessities like rent, utilities, and other urgent needs. Eligible participants typically receive benefits through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, allowing for secure and convenient access to funds.

  • Provides monthly economic assistance to low-income families with children
  • Helps cover essential needs like housing, food, clothing, and transportation
  • Requires participation in work-related activities to remain eligible
  • Formerly known as Food Stamps
  • Offers monthly food assistance to eligible individuals and families to help them buy groceries at authorized retailers
  • Eligibility is based on income, household size, and other factors

South Dakota Stimulus Checks

  • There are no new stimulus checks for South Dakota residents in 2025 or beyond
  • The state does not offer Child Tax Credit (CTC), Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), or Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC)
  • However, residents may still qualify for federal tax credits when filing their federal returns
  • Homeowners in South Dakota may also qualify for property tax relief programs locally

Medical Assistance

Access to affordable healthcare is essential, especially when unexpected health issues arise. South Dakota residents can find help through a number of programs that reduce the cost of medical care, support preventive health services, and ensure that those with limited income don’t go without treatment.

  • Health program for low-income families, children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities
  • Coverage includes doctor visits, hospital care, mental health services, prescription drugs, and preventive care
  • Provides health insurance options for those not covered through employers, Medicaid, or Medicare
  • Health Insurance Marketplace® plans include essential medical benefits like emergency services, hospitalization, and prescriptions
  • Offers free breast and cervical cancer screenings to eligible South Dakota residents
  • Available for women ages 30–64 who are uninsured or underinsured and meet income guidelines
  • Coverage may include clinical breast exams, Pap tests, and diagnostic services

Pregnant and Single Mother Programs

Expectant parents in South Dakota can find support through state and federal programs that provide vital resources. These programs ensure healthier pregnancies and better outcomes for both parent and baby, especially those facing financial hardship.

  • Special Supplemental Nutrition Program that offers monthly nutritious food benefits for pregnant women, postpartum moms, infants, and children up to age five
  • One-on-one nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and referrals to health and community services
  • Free nurse home visits offering guidance on prenatal care, infant care, and family health
  • Access to community referrals and resources for single parents and low‑income households

Child Care Services

South Dakota offers programs to help working families and low-income households access affordable, licensed child care while pursuing employment, education, or training.

  • Helps income-eligible families pay for licensed child care
  • Covers full-time or part-time care with co-pays based on household income
  • Parents must choose providers licensed or registered through the state
  • Free early learning and development programs for children from birth to age five
  • Includes health screenings, meals, and family support services
  • Prioritizes families experiencing financial hardship or homelessness

Food Assistance

The state offers food assistance programs to families and individuals facing food insecurity. These programs ensure access to emergency groceries and supplemental nutrition when other assistance falls short.

  • Distributes USDA Foods at no cost via local food banks, soup kitchens, and meal sites
  • Eligibility based on income guidelines (typically up to 185% of the federal poverty level)
  • Offers monthly boxes of nutritious USDA foods (e.g., dairy, cereal, fruits, canned protein) for low‑income adults aged 60 or over
  • Aims to improve nutrition and reduce health risks among vulnerable seniors

Assistance for Veterans

South Dakota recognizes the sacrifices made by its veterans and provides essential services to support them through every stage of life. Whether facing health challenges, transitioning to civilian life, or seeking financial stability, veterans and their families can access a broad range of state-supported benefits designed to honor their service and improve their quality of life.

Veteran services available in South Dakota include:

  • Assistance with applying for VA benefits, pensions, and service-connected disability claims
  • Access to affordable housing options, long-term care, and state veterans’ homes
  • Free or low-cost transportation to VA medical appointments and hospitals
  • Mental health and substance use resources, including crisis response and peer support
  • Emergency financial assistance for eligible veterans and military families
  • Job placement help, training opportunities, and education benefit coordination

Visit the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs to explore all available support and connect with a local Veterans Service Officer.

Elderly and Disabled Adult Programs

The Mount Rushmore State offers a comprehensive network of support services through the Division of Long-Term Services & Supports (LTSS). These services empower older adults and individuals with disabilities to live independently, safely, and with dignity within their communities.

Available services include:

  • In‑home care assistance covering personal care, meal prep, light housekeeping, and mobility support
  • Referrals to community-based health, nutrition, and legal aid via Aging & Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs)
  • Medicaid-funded HOPE Waiver services include adult day care, respite care, homemaker help, and personal assistance
  • Community transition support to help individuals move from institutional care to home-based settings
  • Caregiver support programs offering family training, respite, and access to long-term care ombudsman advocacy
  • Assistive technology devices and adaptive equipment to increase independence in daily activities

To learn more and access statewide services, contact Dakota at Home, South Dakota’s Aging and Disability Resource Center.

Utility Bill Assistance

Rising utility costs during harsh winter months can add pressure to households already facing financial hardship. South Dakota residents can access energy & weatherization assistance programs that help lower heating expenses and improve home energy efficiency. These programs are available to renters and homeowners who meet income guidelines:

  • Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP): Helps pay heating bills during the coldest months, with payments sent directly to utility providers
  • Weatherization Assistance: Offers free home improvements like weather-stripping, insulation upgrades, and furnace repair or replacement
  • Energy Savers Guide: Free resource with low-cost tips for reducing energy usage year-round

Assistance for Unemployment

Losing a job can create immediate financial stress. South Dakota’s unemployment assistance programs help eligible workers stay afloat by providing temporary income support while they actively seek new employment. Available services include:

  • Weekly cash benefits to unemployed workers who lost their jobs through no fault of their own, funded entirely by employer contributions 
  • Requires participants to file weekly claims, report job search activities, and update any income changes to maintain eligibility 
  • Support services include job search assistance, training referrals, and access to career centers through SDWORKS and the Department of Labor & Regulation

File a claim or learn more through the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation official portal.

Housing and Homelessness Assistance

Affordable housing is critical for financial stability, but many South Dakota residents struggle to keep up with rent, utilities, or emergency shelter needs. State-supported programs focus on preventing homelessness and helping families access safe, long-term housing solutions.

  • Provides short- and medium-term rental assistance, help with utility bills, and housing relocation support
  • Funds emergency shelters, case management, and rehousing services for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness
  • Emergency shelters and transitional housing programs that provide temporary beds, meals, hygiene services, and case management for rehousing support
  • Listings vary by county and are maintained by nonprofit and faith-based organizations

Transportation Assistance

Divorce and Other Legal Assistance

  • Access to Justice (A2J): Provides free or reduced-fee legal help for eligible residents in civil matters like housing, family law, and public benefits appeals
  • Dakota Plains Legal Services: Offers pro bono or sliding-scale legal support for low-income individuals across South Dakota, including tribal communities

Nonprofit Assistance Programs in South Dakota

Community-based organizations in South Dakota help bridge the gap for residents facing food insecurity, emergency housing needs, or financial hardship. These nonprofits typically provide support faster and with more flexibility than state-administered programs.

  • Offers monthly mobile food distributions with pre-packed grocery boxes statewide
  • Open to any resident, no ID or income verification required at most locations
  • Includes proxy pickup options and rural outreach programs
  • Provides food pantry access, energy assistance, housing support, and weatherization services
  • Serves multiple counties through four regional Community Action Agencies
  • Offers transportation help and seasonal emergency aid
  • Searchable database of grant opportunities for individuals, nonprofits, and small businesses
  • Includes funding listings for housing, utilities, education, and family services

How Do You Get Financial Help in South Dakota?

Even with multiple public assistance programs available, many South Dakota residents still face overwhelming debt from credit cards, loans, or medical expenses. When state aid isn’t enough, turning to a trusted partner like TurboDebt® can help you take back control of your finances.

TurboDebt offers proven South Dakota debt relief programs tailored to your financial situation. In 2024, our team helped clients across the state save an average of 52% on enrolled debt before fees.

Here’s why so many South Dakotans choose TurboDebt:

  • No upfront fees to get started
  • Potential savings of 50% or more on your total debt (before fees) with our debt settlement program
  • Become debt-free in as little as 12–48 months
  • No new loans or lines of credit as part of your debt relief program
  • Top-rated customer service, with 20,000+ 5-star TurboDebt reviews from satisfied clients

If your debt feels like it’s going nowhere, it’s time to take the first real step. Schedule a free consultation to determine if you qualify for our debt relief program and start your path toward financial freedom today.