EBT Guides
Apr 10, 2025
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides essential food assistance to low-income individuals and families in South Dakota, ensuring access to nutritious meals and alleviating food insecurity.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in South Dakota
Income limits and benefit amounts for SNAP in South Dakota are determined based on household size and gross monthly income. These limits ensure that assistance is provided to those who need it most. Below is a detailed breakdown of the maximum monthly income limits and SNAP benefit amounts for different household sizes:
Household Size: 1 person
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,383
Maximum Benefit Amount: $250
Household Size: 2 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,868
Maximum Benefit Amount: $459
Household Size: 3 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,353
Maximum Benefit Amount: $658
Household Size: 4 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,839
Maximum Benefit Amount: $835
Household Size: 5 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,324
Maximum Benefit Amount: $992
Household Size: 6 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,809
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,190
Household Size: 7 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,295
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,316
Household Size: 8 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,780
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,504
For households with more than 8 people, add $486 to the gross monthly income limit and $188 to the maximum benefit amount for each additional person. For the most current information, please visit the official South Dakota SNAP website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in South Dakota
To qualify for SNAP benefits in South Dakota, applicants must meet several eligibility criteria:
Income Limits: Applicants must meet both gross and net income limits based on household size.
Residency Requirements: Applicants must reside in South Dakota.
Citizenship Status: U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens can qualify.
Work Requirements: Certain work-related conditions must be met.
Special Conditions: Special considerations are given to seniors, disabled individuals, and students.
For detailed and up-to-date information, please visit the South Dakota SNAP website.
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in South Dakota
Applying for SNAP benefits in South Dakota can be done online, in-person, or by mail, providing multiple convenient options for individuals seeking assistance.
Applying Online
To apply for SNAP benefits online as a South Dakota resident, follow these steps:
Visit the official SNAP application website
Go to the South Dakota SNAP application portal.
Create an account or log in
Sign up for a new account or log in if you already have one.
Complete the application form
Fill out the online application form with the necessary details about your household.
Submit required documents electronically
Upload any required documents directly through the online portal.
Review and submit your application
Double-check your information and submit the application for processing.
Applying In-Person
To apply for SNAP benefits in-person, follow these steps:
Locate your nearest SNAP office
Find the closest Department of Social Services (DSS) office using the DSS office locator.
Gather necessary documents
Collect essential documents such as ID, proof of income, and residency verification.
Visit the office during business hours
Go to the DSS office during their operating hours, typically Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM.
Complete the application form
Fill out the application form provided at the office with your household details.
Submit your application to a caseworker
Hand your completed application and documents to a caseworker for processing.
Applying by Mail
To apply for SNAP benefits in South Dakota by mail, follow these steps:
Download and print the SNAP application form
Visit the South Dakota SNAP website to download and print the application form.
Fill out the form
Complete the application form with your household details.
Photocopy necessary documents
Make copies of essential documents like ID and proof of income.
Mail the application and documents
Send the completed application and photocopies to the address provided on the form.
Wait for confirmation
Expect a confirmation or further instructions from the SNAP office.
Special SNAP Services in South Dakota
In South Dakota, residents may qualify for special SNAP services such as expedited benefits for urgent needs, disaster assistance, and support for homeless individuals. Visit the South Dakota SNAP website to learn more and see if you qualify.
Expedited SNAP Services in South Dakota
Residents of South Dakota facing emergency situations can receive expedited SNAP benefits to address urgent food needs. To qualify for expedited services, applicants must meet specific criteria. These include having extremely low income, limited resources, or an immediate need for food assistance. For instance, households with less than $150 in monthly gross income and less than $100 in liquid resources may qualify.
Additionally, if a household's combined monthly income and liquid resources are less than their monthly rent or mortgage and utility costs, they may also be eligible for expedited benefits. These criteria ensure that those in dire need receive prompt assistance, helping to alleviate food insecurity during critical times.
Disaster Assistance for SNAP Beneficiaries
If you are affected by disasters such as fires or power outages in South Dakota, you may qualify for replacement SNAP benefits. This assistance is available to current SNAP beneficiaries who have lost food due to these emergencies.
To apply, contact your local Department of Social Services (DSS) office. Even if you are not currently receiving SNAP benefits, you can still apply for disaster assistance. Be prepared to provide details about the disaster and its impact on your food supply.
Required documents may include identification, proof of residence, and a statement detailing the loss. Ensure you submit your application promptly to receive the necessary support during these challenging times.
SNAP for Seniors and People with Disabilities
SNAP in South Dakota provides tailored support for older adults (60+) and individuals with disabilities, recognizing their unique needs. These groups often benefit from simplified application processes, making it easier to access essential food assistance.
Eligibility criteria for seniors and disabled individuals may differ slightly, often allowing for higher income limits and more lenient asset tests. This ensures that those with fixed incomes or additional financial burdens can still qualify for benefits.
Common deductions for these groups include out-of-pocket medical expenses, which can significantly reduce countable income, thereby increasing the benefit amount. This helps alleviate the financial strain associated with healthcare costs.
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in South Dakota
Once approved for SNAP benefits, it's important to understand how to use them effectively, including what you can buy and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) cards are used to distribute SNAP benefits, functioning similarly to a debit or credit card. Recipients receive a card loaded with their monthly benefits, which can be swiped at participating grocery stores to purchase eligible food items. Just like a debit card, users enter a PIN to complete transactions, ensuring secure and convenient access to their SNAP benefits.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Recipients in South Dakota can use their EBT cards to purchase a variety of eligible food items, ensuring they have access to nutritious options. These items include:
Fruits
Vegetables
Dairy products
Bread and cereals
Meat, poultry, and fish
Non-alcoholic beverages
However, there are restrictions on what can be purchased with EBT benefits. Ineligible items include:
Alcoholic beverages
Hot foods prepared for immediate consumption
Vitamins and supplements
Non-food products such as cleaning supplies, paper products, and pet food
Download Benny for Free and Earn Cash Back on EBT
With Benny, you can earn cash back on groceries from stores like Target, Walmart, and Dollar Tree, as well as services such as Uber and Lyft. Download Benny for free. Connect your EBT card and earn cashback as you shop.
Where Can You Use Your EBT Card?
Recipients in South Dakota can use their EBT cards at a variety of locations, including grocery stores, corner stores, and farmers' markets. These venues offer a wide range of eligible food items, ensuring access to nutritious options.
Additionally, EBT cards can be used for online purchases at participating retailers like Amazon and Walmart, providing further convenience. This flexibility allows recipients to shop for groceries in a way that best suits their needs and lifestyle.
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Managing your SNAP benefits effectively ensures you maximize your food assistance, avoid running out of funds, and maintain eligibility. Here's how to check your EBT balance, understand deposit schedules, and renew benefits.
EBT Deposit Schedule in South Dakota
In South Dakota, SNAP benefits are typically deposited onto EBT cards based on the last digit of the recipient's case number. This system ensures a staggered distribution, helping to manage the flow of funds and avoid system overloads. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Case Number Ending in 0-1: Benefits deposited on the 10th of the month
Case Number Ending in 2-3: Benefits deposited on the 11th of the month
Case Number Ending in 4-5: Benefits deposited on the 12th of the month
Case Number Ending in 6-7: Benefits deposited on the 13th of the month
Case Number Ending in 8-9: Benefits deposited on the 14th of the month
Understanding the deposit schedule is crucial for managing your SNAP benefits effectively, ensuring you plan your grocery shopping and budget accordingly.
For more details, check out our guide on EBT deposit schedule in South Dakota to learn about common reasons for delays and other helpful tips.
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
There are several methods available for checking your EBT balance in South Dakota:
Online Portal
Visit the South Dakota EBT portal and log in to view your balance and transactions.
Benny App
Benny is a mobile app that allows you to check your EBT balance and transactions in real time by linking your EBT card to the app.
Phone Number
Call the number on the back of your EBT card and follow the automated instructions to check your balance.
ATM Receipt
Insert your EBT card into an ATM, enter your PIN, and select "Balance Inquiry" to print your balance.
For additional information on each method for checking your EBT balance, check our guide on EBT Balance Check in South Dakota.
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
Recipients in South Dakota must renew or recertify their SNAP benefits every 6 to 12 months, depending on their specific case. Required documents typically include proof of income, residency, and any changes in household size or expenses.
To complete the recertification, recipients can submit their documents online, by mail, or in-person at a local DSS office. Timely recertification is important to ensure continuous access to benefits. Missing the deadline can lead to benefit interruptions, so it's advisable to start the process early and keep track of renewal dates.
EBT Customer Support in South Dakota
For SNAP and EBT customer support in South Dakota, assistance is available to address any issues or questions you may have regarding your benefits and card usage.
For more information on contact details, support options, and common issues, check out our guide on EBT customer service in South Dakota to ensure you get the help you need.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in South Dakota
EBT Customer Service Phone Number: Call 1-800-604-5099 for assistance.
Hours of Operation: Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Services Offered:
Report lost or stolen EBT cards
Reset or change your PIN
Check your EBT card balance
Inquire about recent transactions
Get answers to general questions about your EBT account
Local SNAP Office Locations and Contact Info
Finding your nearest SNAP or Department of Human Services (DHS) office in South Dakota is straightforward with several available resources. You can use online locator tools, call dedicated phone lines, or book appointments directly.
Here are the steps to find your nearest office:
Online Locator Tool: Visit the DSS office locator to search for the nearest office by entering your zip code or city.
Phone Line: Call the South Dakota Department of Social Services at 1-800-604-5099 for assistance in locating the nearest office.
Appointment Booking: Some offices offer online appointment booking through their websites, allowing you to schedule a visit at your convenience.
Multi-Langual Support
In South Dakota, SNAP application materials and assistance are available in multiple languages to support non-English speakers. This ensures that all residents can access the benefits they need. The most common languages in which assistance is available include:
Spanish
German
Vietnamese
Chinese
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits in South Dakota is easier with Benny. This app allows you to check your EBT balance and transactions instantly, ensuring you stay on top of your benefits. Additionally, Benny offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven.
With Benny, you can maximize your SNAP benefits and make your shopping more rewarding. Learn more about Benny and start managing your benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions about SNAP in South Dakota
Who qualifies for SNAP benefits in South Dakota?
To qualify for SNAP benefits in South Dakota, you must meet income limits based on household size, be a resident of the state, and be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen. Additionally, you must comply with work requirements unless you are a senior, disabled, or a student. For more details, visit the South Dakota SNAP website.
Can college students apply for SNAP?
Yes, college students can apply for SNAP in South Dakota if they meet certain conditions. These include working at least 20 hours per week, participating in a state or federally funded work-study program, or caring for a dependent under 6 years old. For more details, visit the South Dakota SNAP website.
Can I get SNAP benefits if I’m an immigrant?
Some immigrants may qualify for SNAP benefits depending on their immigration status. Eligible non-citizens include those with legal permanent residency, refugees, and asylees. It's important to check specific eligibility criteria. For detailed information, visit the South Dakota SNAP website.
How often do I need to renew my SNAP benefits?
SNAP recipients in South Dakota typically need to renew their benefits every 6 to 12 months. The exact renewal period depends on individual circumstances and state rules. It's important to keep track of your renewal date to ensure continuous access to benefits and avoid any interruptions in assistance.
