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Grants for Single Mothers in South Dakota

South Dakota Single Mother’s Guide to Benefits, Grants, and Support Programs (2025)

Last updated: August 2025

Quick Summary for Busy Moms

South Dakota offers assistance for single mothers through 20+ programs. Emergency help available within 1-3 days. Key programs include food assistance for families earning under $2,797/month, utility assistance up to $2,400/year, and federal tax credits worth thousands annually.


Top Programs by Urgency:

  • Emergency Food: SNAP benefits up to $768/month for family of 3
  • Emergency Cash: TANF up to $701/month (facing cuts – apply quickly)
  • Emergency Utilities: LIHEAP up to $2,400/year for energy bills
  • Tax Benefits: EITC up to $8,046/year, Child Tax Credit up to $2,000 per child
  • Education: Federal Pell Grants up to $7,395/year + state scholarships

If You Need Help Today

If you’re facing an immediate crisis, here are three steps you can take right now:

  1. Call 2-1-1 – Free 24/7 help finding emergency assistance for housing, food, utilities, and more
  2. Apply for Emergency SNAP at SD DSS Online System – you can get benefits within 1-3 days
  3. Contact Feeding South Dakota at (605) 335-0364 for emergency food assistance

Main Points

South Dakota has some of the highest poverty rates among single mothers in the nation, but help is available. According to recent data, over 18,000 South Dakota families receive SNAP benefits, and thousands more qualify for assistance programs.

What you need to know:

  • Emergency help exists – You can get food assistance within days and utility help within weeks
  • Tax credits provide major help – EITC and Child Tax Credit can provide thousands annually
  • Educational grants are available – Federal Pell Grants and state scholarships can fund your education
  • The system is complex – But this guide breaks it down step by step
  • Rural challenges are real – But mobile services and telehealth help bridge gaps

Reality Check: South Dakota recently cut TANF benefits by 10% as of August 2025, with more cuts planned. Apply for multiple programs and don’t rely on just one source of help.

Tax Credits and Federal Benefits (Often Overlooked!)

Many single mothers miss these programs that provide significant annual income.

Federal Tax Credits

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

  • What it provides: Up to $8,046 for families with 3+ children (2025 tax year), according to IRS Revenue Procedure 2024-40
  • Who qualifies: Working families with income under $59,899 (single filers with 3+ children) for 2025
  • How to claim: File tax return with IRS Form 1040, even if you don’t owe taxes
  • Reality Check: This is refundable – you get money back even if you pay no taxes

Income Limits for EITC (2025 Tax Year):

Children Single Filer Income Limit Maximum Credit
1 child $47,915 $4,213
2 children $53,057 $6,960
3+ children $59,899 $8,046

Child Tax Credit (CTC)

  • What it provides: Up to $2,000 per child under 17, with up to $1,700 refundable per IRS Topic 602
  • Who qualifies: Single mothers with income under $200,000
  • How to claim: File tax return, may be partially refundable

Child and Dependent Care Credit

  • What it provides: 20-35% of childcare costs, up to $3,000 for one child or $6,000 for two+ children
  • Who qualifies: Working parents paying for childcare to work or look for work
  • How to claim: Keep receipts, file with tax return using Form 2441

Contact for Free Tax Help: IRS VITA Program at 1-800-906-9887

Educational Grants and Scholarships

These programs help single mothers get education and job training to improve their financial situation.

Federal Educational Grants

Federal Pell Grant

  • What it provides: Up to $7,395 per year for 2024-2025 school year, according to SDSU Financial Aid
  • Who qualifies: Students with financial need who haven’t earned a bachelor’s degree
  • How to apply: Complete FAFSA by March 1st for priority consideration
  • Reality Check: You never have to pay this back – it’s free money for education

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)

  • What it provides: Up to $4,000 per year for students with exceptional financial need
  • Who qualifies: Must already qualify for Pell Grant and show extreme financial need
  • How to apply: Automatically considered when you file FAFSA

South Dakota State Programs

Build Dakota Scholarship

  • What it provides: Full-ride scholarships covering tuition, fees, books, and expenses at South Dakota technical institutes
  • Requirements: Must commit to living and working in South Dakota for 3 years after graduation
  • Programs available: High-need workforce programs in technical fields
  • How to apply: Contact individual technical institutes directly

Freedom Scholarship

  • What it provides: Need-based scholarships for South Dakota residents attending in-state institutions
  • How to qualify: Must complete FAFSA and demonstrate financial need
  • Amount: Varies by institution and need level
  • How to apply: Automatically considered when applying for financial aid at participating schools

South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship

  • What it provides: Up to $6,500 over four years for qualifying students
  • Requirements: Must meet academic requirements and attend eligible South Dakota institutions
  • How to apply: Contact SD Board of Regents at (605) 773-3455

Emergency Cash and Basic Needs

When you need help paying bills or buying food, these programs can provide immediate relief.

Cash Assistance (South Dakota’s TANF Program)

Current benefit amounts (Note: Recent 10% cuts took effect August 2025):

  • Family of 2: Up to $631/month (down from $701)
  • Family of 3: Approximately $515/month average
  • Family of 4: Benefits vary based on income and circumstances

Income limits: Must have very low income, typically under $1,000/month for a family of three

Important Time Limit Warning: Federal lifetime limit of 60 months (5 years) applies. Recent state cuts mean benefits are lower and may face further reductions.

Requirements:

  • Must be U.S. citizen or qualified legal resident
  • Must live in South Dakota
  • Must have children under 19 (or under 20 if in school)
  • Must participate in work activities 30 hours/week (20 hours if child under 6)
  • Must have assets under $2,000 (excluding home and one vehicle)

How to apply:

  1. Apply online at SD DSS Online System
  2. Call (605) 773-4678 for assistance
  3. Visit local DSS office

Processing time: Up to 45 days from application date

SNAP (Food Assistance)

According to South Dakota DSS, SNAP helps low-income South Dakotans buy food while working toward financial independence.

Maximum benefit amounts (per USDA FY2025 Allotments):

  • 1 person: $292/month
  • 2 people: $536/month
  • 3 people: $768/month
  • 4 people: $975/month

Income limits (130% of Federal Poverty Level):

Family Size Monthly Gross Income Limit Annual Gross Income Limit
1 person $1,631 $19,572
2 people $2,215 $26,580
3 people $2,797 $33,588
4 people $3,380 $40,560

How to apply:

Emergency SNAP: If you qualify for expedited service, you can get benefits within 1-3 days if you have less than $150 in monthly income and $100 or less in bank accounts.

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

According to South Dakota Department of Health, WIC provides nutrition assistance to pregnant women and children under 5.

Who qualifies:

  • Pregnant, breastfeeding, or postpartum women
  • Children under age 5
  • Income at or below 185% of Federal Poverty Level ($2,797/month for family of 3)
  • Must be at “nutritional risk” (determined by health screening)

Automatic qualification if you receive:

  • Medicaid
  • TANF (Cash Assistance)
  • SNAP (Food Assistance)

Benefits include:

  • Monthly food packages with items like milk, eggs, cereal, peanut butter, baby formula
  • Nutrition education and counseling
  • Breastfeeding support and breast pump loans
  • Referrals to healthcare and social services

How to apply:

  • Call South Dakota WIC: (605) 773-3361 or 1-800-738-2301
  • Find local WIC office at sd.gov/wic
  • Apply in person (phone interview not available)

Utility and Housing Assistance

Finding affordable housing and paying utility bills are major challenges for single mothers.

LIHEAP (Low Income Energy Assistance Program)

According to South Dakota DSS, LIHEAP helps low-income families pay heating bills.

Benefits available:

  • Regular LIHEAP: $668 up to $2,400 per year depending on household income and energy costs
  • Emergency assistance: Available October 1 through March 31 for disconnection notices
  • Crisis intervention: Available for energy emergencies

Who qualifies: Based on household income guidelines – priority given to households with elderly, disabled, or children under 6

How to apply:

  1. Complete application from local DSS office
  2. Call (800) 233-8503 to request application
  3. Email completed application to DSSHeat@state.sd.us
  4. Application deadline: March 31st each year

Required documents:

  • Current utility bills
  • Disconnection notice (if applicable)
  • Proof of income for all household members
  • Photo ID and Social Security cards

Weatherization Assistance Program

What it provides: Free home improvements to make your home more energy efficient, helping reduce monthly bills

Services include:

  • Weather-stripping doors and windows
  • Caulking and sealing cracks
  • Insulating attics, walls, and floors
  • Repair or replacement of heating systems
  • Incidental repairs to protect weatherization materials

Who qualifies: Low-income households – priority given to elderly, disabled, families with children

How to apply: Contact your county’s Community Action Program – applications not available online

Housing Assistance

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers: Contact local housing authorities for waiting list information. Note: Most have long waiting lists of 1-3 years.

Emergency Rental Assistance: Contact Community Action Programs for emergency help with rent, utilities, or security deposits.

Healthcare for You and Your Kids

South Dakota expanded Medicaid in 2023, making healthcare more accessible for low-income families.

Medicaid (South Dakota Medical Assistance)

According to South Dakota DSS, Medicaid provides health coverage to low-income individuals and families.

Income limits (138% of Federal Poverty Level as of July 2023):

Household Size Monthly Income Limit Annual Income Limit
1 person $1,801 $21,597
2 people $2,433 $29,180
3 people $3,064 $36,763
4 people $3,696 $44,346

Coverage includes:

  • Doctor visits and specialist care
  • Prescription medications
  • Mental health and substance abuse treatment
  • Hospital and emergency room care
  • Preventive care including mammograms and cancer screenings

For children: Children 18 and under can get coverage at higher income levels through CHIP

How to apply:

Processing time: Usually 30 days or less

Childcare Help While You Work or Go to School

Child Care Assistance Program

According to South Dakota DSS, this program helps eligible families pay for childcare.

Who qualifies:

  • Working parents (minimum 20 hours/week)
  • Parents in approved education/training programs
  • Income limits based on family size

How much you pay: Co-payments based on income – lower income families pay less

Approved providers:

  • Licensed childcare centers
  • Licensed family childcare homes
  • Approved relative care (in some cases)
  • Before/after school programs

How to apply:

Head Start and Early Head Start

Free comprehensive early childhood programs for low-income families.

Head Start (Ages 3-5):

  • Free preschool education
  • Full-day or part-day options
  • Meals and snacks included
  • Health and dental screenings

Early Head Start (Birth to 3):

  • Childcare for infants and toddlers
  • Home visiting programs
  • Pregnant women services

How to apply: Contact South Dakota Head Start Association at (605) 224-4161

Food Help Beyond SNAP

Feeding South Dakota

The state’s largest hunger-relief organization, serving all 66 counties.

Services available:

  • Emergency food boxes
  • Mobile food pantries in rural areas
  • Kids programs (backpack and summer meals)
  • Senior food programs

Contact information:

What to bring: Valid ID and proof of address

Summer Food Service Program

According to South Dakota Department of Education, free meals for children during summer break.

Who qualifies: Children 18 and under Where: Local schools, nonprofits, parks, and libraries When: During summer break when school is not in session

School Meals Programs

National School Lunch Program: Free or reduced-price lunches for eligible students School Breakfast Program: Free or reduced-price breakfast for eligible students

How to apply: Contact your child’s school or apply online through school district

Real Grants for Single Mothers

Federal Grant Programs

Pell Grant

  • What it is: Federal grant for college education that never needs to be repaid
  • Amount: Up to $7,395 per year for 2024-2025
  • Who qualifies: Students with financial need pursuing undergraduate degrees
  • How to apply: Complete FAFSA – deadline March 1st for priority

FSEOG (Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant)

  • What it is: Additional federal grant for students with exceptional financial need
  • Amount: Up to $4,000 per year
  • Who qualifies: Must already qualify for Pell Grant
  • How to apply: Automatically considered when filing FAFSA

State-Specific Grants

South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship

  • What it is: Merit-based scholarship for South Dakota high school graduates
  • Amount: Up to $6,500 over four years
  • Requirements: Academic requirements and attendance at eligible SD institutions

Build Dakota Scholarship

  • What it is: Full-ride scholarship for technical education
  • Coverage: Tuition, fees, books, and program expenses
  • Commitment: Must work in South Dakota for 3 years after graduation

Reality Check: True “grants” for general living expenses are rare. Most legitimate grants are for education. Be wary of scams promising “guaranteed” grants for a fee.

Support for Diverse Family Types

Single Fathers

All programs in this guide serve single fathers raising children alone:

Available programs:

  • SNAP (food assistance) – same eligibility and benefits
  • TANF (cash assistance) – same income limits and requirements
  • Medicaid – full family coverage available
  • Child support services – help collecting from other parent
  • Childcare assistance – same work/school requirements

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

TANF eligibility: May qualify even if grandparent receives Social Security – different income calculations apply

Support services: Contact local Community Action Programs for kinship care resources

LGBTQ+ Single Parents

All South Dakota state programs serve LGBTQ+ parents without discrimination.

Support organizations:

  • South Dakota Equality: Contact for local LGBTQ+ resources
  • PFLAG chapters: Available in larger cities

Native American Families

Tribal programs: Many South Dakota tribes operate their own assistance programs:

  • Oglala Sioux Tribe (Pine Ridge): Contact tribal offices for services
  • Rosebud Sioux Tribe: Tribal assistance programs available
  • Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe: Social services and assistance
  • Standing Rock Sioux Tribe: Cross-border services with North Dakota

Important: You cannot receive both state and tribal assistance simultaneously for the same program

Indian Health Service: Healthcare for enrolled tribal members regardless of income

Additional resources:

Contact tribal governments directly for specific programs and eligibility requirements.

Rural Single Mother Families

Additional challenges in rural areas:

  • Limited public transportation
  • Fewer service providers
  • Longer travel distances to offices
  • Limited internet access

Rural-specific resources:

  • Mobile services: Many programs offer mobile visits to rural areas
  • Telehealth: Medicaid covers telehealth appointments
  • 2-1-1: Especially important for finding local resources
  • Community Action Programs: Serve rural counties with local offices

Resources by Region

Eastern South Dakota (Sioux Falls Area)

Community Services:

  • Sioux Falls Community Outreach: Emergency financial assistance
  • St. Francis House: Homeless prevention and support
  • Feeding South Dakota: Main distribution center

Contact: Call 2-1-1 for local resource connections

Western South Dakota (Rapid City Area)

Community Services:

  • Western South Dakota Community Action: Weatherization and emergency services at (605) 348-1460
  • Black Hills Works: Employment and training services

Central South Dakota (Pierre Area)

State Offices: Many state program headquarters located in Pierre Local Services: Contact Community Action Programs for area-specific help

Rural Counties

Service delivery: Community Action Programs serve rural areas throughout the state Important: Many services require travel to larger towns – call ahead to coordinate appointments

How to Apply: Your 4-Week Action Plan

Week 1: Immediate Emergency Needs

Day 1-2:

  1. Apply for Emergency SNAP at SD DSS Online System
  2. Call 2-1-1 for immediate crisis resources in your area
  3. Contact Feeding South Dakota at (605) 335-0364 for emergency food

Day 3-4: 4. Apply for Medicaid – same application as SNAP 5. Call utility companies if behind on bills – many have hardship programs 6. Contact local churches/nonprofits for emergency assistance

Day 5-7: 7. Gather required documents (see list below) 8. Follow up on SNAP application if no response within 3 days 9. Apply for WIC if you have children under 5

Week 2: Cash Assistance and Support Programs

Day 8-10:

  1. Apply for Cash Assistance (TANF) through SD DSS Online System
  2. Apply for LIHEAP utility assistance by calling (800) 233-8503
  3. Contact child support services if applicable

Day 11-14: 4. Apply for childcare assistance if working or in school 5. Research Head Start programs for children 3-5 6. Contact additional food banks for ongoing support

Week 3: Long-term Planning and Education

Day 15-17:

  1. Complete FAFSA for educational grants at studentaid.gov
  2. Research Build Dakota Scholarships for technical training
  3. Contact community colleges about programs and support services

Day 18-21: 4. File taxes or contact VITA program for EITC/Child Tax Credit: 1-800-906-9887 5. Apply for housing assistance with local housing authorities 6. Follow up on all pending applications

Week 4: Additional Support and Follow-up

Day 22-24:

  1. Apply to additional scholarship programs
  2. Contact Community Action Programs for weatherization
  3. Research local nonprofit assistance

Day 25-28: 4. Create ongoing plan for managing benefits and requirements 5. Set calendar reminders for recertification dates 6. Build support network with other single mothers

Documents You Need (Prepare These First!)

Personal identification:

  • South Dakota driver’s license or state ID
  • Social Security cards for all family members
  • Birth certificates for all children
  • Immigration documents (if applicable)

Income and employment:

  • Pay stubs from last 30 days
  • Unemployment benefits statement
  • Self-employment records
  • Child support payment records
  • Any other income documentation

Housing and expenses:

  • Current lease or mortgage statement
  • Rent receipts for last 3 months
  • Utility bills (electric, gas, water, phone)
  • Childcare payment receipts

Financial information:

  • Bank statements for last 3 months (all accounts)
  • Vehicle registration and insurance
  • Medical bills and expenses
  • Court orders (custody, child support, if applicable)

What to Do When You’re Denied

Don’t give up! Most denials can be resolved.

Common Denial Reasons

Missing information:

  • Incomplete application
  • Missing required documents
  • Failed to attend required interview
  • Income not properly documented

Eligibility issues:

  • Income appears too high (often calculation errors)
  • Didn’t meet residency requirements
  • Failed to meet work requirements
  • Assets over program limits

Your Legal Rights

Appeal process:

  • 30-day deadline: You have 30 days from denial date to request appeal
  • Continued benefits: You may keep current benefits during appeal (if already receiving)
  • Fair hearing: Right to present your case to impartial hearing officer

How to appeal:

  1. Request appeal in writing within 30 days
  2. State specific reasons you disagree with decision
  3. Submit additional documentation supporting your case
  4. Attend hearing or participate by phone

Getting Help with Appeals

Free legal assistance:

  • East River Legal Services: (605) 886-4990
  • Dakota Plains Legal Services: (605) 224-7424
  • Black Hills Legal Services: (605) 342-7171

Common Questions Single Mothers Ask (FAQs)

Q: Can I get help if I’m working? A: Yes! Most programs allow working families to qualify:

  • SNAP: Up to 130% of poverty level ($2,797/month for family of 3)
  • Medicaid: Up to 138% of poverty level ($3,064/month for family of 3)
  • Childcare assistance: Various income limits based on program

Q: How long do applications take to process? A: Processing times vary by program:

  • SNAP: 1-30 days (1-3 days if emergency)
  • TANF: Up to 45 days
  • Medicaid: Usually 30 days or less
  • Childcare assistance: 30-45 days

Q: What if I live in rural South Dakota? A: Rural residents face additional challenges but have options:

  • Mobile services available through Community Action Programs
  • Medicaid covers telehealth appointments
  • 2-1-1 is especially important for finding local resources
  • Many programs have special provisions for rural residents

Q: Are there real grants for single mothers? A: Yes, but they’re mostly for education:

  • Federal Pell Grant: Up to $7,395/year for college
  • Build Dakota Scholarship: Full-ride for technical training
  • FSEOG: Up to $4,000/year for students with exceptional need
  • Be wary of scams promising “general living” grants

Q: Can I get help paying for school while receiving benefits? A: Yes, education is encouraged:

  • Pell Grants: Federal education funding (apply via FAFSA)
  • TANF work requirement: Education/training counts as work activity
  • Childcare assistance: Available for parents in approved education programs

Q: What if I have a criminal record? A: You can still qualify for most programs:

  • SNAP (food assistance)
  • Medicaid (healthcare)
  • Most other programs
  • Some restrictions may apply to TANF depending on the conviction

Q: How do I get help filling out applications? A: Free application assistance available:

  • DSS offices: Staff provide in-person help
  • 2-1-1: Can connect you with local navigators
  • Community Action Programs: Case managers often help with applications

Emergency Resources and Crisis Numbers

Immediate Crisis Help

Food emergency:

  • Feeding South Dakota: (605) 335-0364
  • 2-1-1: Find local food pantries and soup kitchens
  • Emergency SNAP: Apply at eaportal.sd.gov or call (877) 999-5612

Housing emergency (eviction/homelessness):

  • 2-1-1: Emergency shelter and rental assistance
  • Community Action Programs: Emergency rent and utility help

Utilities shut-off:

  • LIHEAP Emergency: (800) 233-8503
  • Utility company hardship programs: Call your utility provider directly

Medical emergency:

  • 911: Life-threatening emergencies
  • Community health centers: Sliding fee scale, call 2-1-1 for locations

Crisis and Mental Health Support

Crisis intervention:

  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
  • South Dakota Crisis Line: (800) 273-8255

Domestic violence:

  • National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
  • Local shelters: Call 2-1-1 for immediate shelter options

Resources and Important Phone Numbers

Statewide Resources

Primary contact numbers:

  • 2-1-1: Information and referral service (24/7) – Your first call for any crisis
  • South Dakota Department of Social Services: (605) 773-3165
  • SD DSS Online System: eaportal.sd.gov

Application and benefits:

  • SNAP/TANF/Medicaid applications: eaportal.sd.gov
  • Child support services: (605) 773-3641
  • WIC program: (605) 773-3361

Emergency Numbers

Immediate crisis:

  • Emergency services: 911
  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
  • National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233

Food assistance:

  • Feeding South Dakota: (605) 335-0364

Educational Resources

College and financial aid:

  • South Dakota Board of Regents: (605) 773-3455
  • Federal Student Aid: studentaid.gov
  • FAFSA help: 1-800-433-3243

Useful Websites

Government portals:

Resource finders:

Disclaimer

Important Notice About Information Currency

Program details, eligibility requirements, and benefit amounts change frequently due to federal and state policy updates, funding changes, and legislative action. All information in this guide was compiled and verified using official government sources as of August 2025, but policies may have changed since publication.

Verification Requirements:

  • Always verify current information directly with the relevant agency before making decisions
  • Contact program offices for the most up-to-date eligibility requirements and benefit amounts
  • Check official websites for any recent policy changes or updates

Limitations:

  • This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal, financial, or benefits counseling advice
  • Individual circumstances vary and may affect program eligibility
  • Processing times and benefit amounts may differ from those listed
  • Some programs may have waiting lists or limited funding not reflected in this guide

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

The ASingleMother.org team has been researching and writing comprehensive benefits guides for single mothers across all 50 states since 2020. Our editorial team regularly updates these guides by reviewing official government sources, contacting state agencies, and incorporating feedback from hundreds of single mothers who have used these programs.

This South Dakota guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including South Dakota Department of Social Services, USDA, IRS, and local nonprofits to ensure accuracy.

Information compiled from official South Dakota Department of Social Services, USDA, HHS, and South Dakota Board of Regents sources. Last verified: August 2025.

The ASingleMother.org editorial team welcomes feedback on this guide. If you find outdated information or discover new resources, please contact us at info@asinglemother.org so we can help other single mothers with accurate, current information.

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