South Dakota Childcare Assistance for Single Mothers: 2025 Ultimate Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This is your no-nonsense, step‑by‑step guide to getting help with child care costs in South Dakota. It’s written for single moms who need clear answers fast, with direct links, real numbers, timelines, and phone numbers you can call today.

South Dakota’s Child Care Services (CCS) program helps pay for care while you work or go to school. You apply once, and if approved, you’ll get 12 months of help (unless certain changes happen). Applications are processed in Pierre but you can apply online or drop forms at any DSS local office. (dss.sd.gov, dakotaathome.sd.gov)

Quick Help Box

• Apply online for South Dakota Child Care Assistance (takes about 15–30 minutes): Apply for Child Care Assistance (official DSS portal). Phone help: 800‑227‑3020 (option for Child Care Services). Mail/fax if you prefer: South Dakota DSS, Child Care Services, 700 Governors Dr, Pierre, SD 57501; Fax 605‑773‑7294; Email CCS@state.sd.us. Applications are processed within 10 working days. (dss.sd.gov)
• Check if you’re within income limits (effective March 1, 2025). See the income table below based on 209% of the federal poverty level (FPL). (dss.sd.gov)
• Find a licensed or registered provider you can use with subsidy: Search South Dakota child care programs (Office of Licensing & Accreditation public portal). Or dial 211 for the Child Care Helpline for customized referrals. (olapublic.sd.gov, helplinecenter.org)
• Need in‑person help or to drop paperwork? Use the DSS local office directory. Key offices: Sioux Falls 605‑367‑5444, Rapid City 605‑394‑2525, Pierre 605‑773‑3612, Watertown 605‑882‑5000, Mitchell 605‑995‑8000, Yankton 605‑668‑3030. (dss.sd.gov)
• If you or your child are tribal citizens, you can also apply through your Tribe’s CCDF program (often faster for tribal members). See the tribal contact list and phone numbers below. (acf.gov)

What the State Program Covers (and for whom)

Start here: the CCS program helps pay for child care while a parent works or attends school. Children from birth through age 12 can be covered. You must pick a provider who meets state rules (licensed/registered, or specific approved relative/in‑home arrangements). (dss.sd.gov)

• Providers you can use with subsidy include: licensed centers, registered family day care homes, approved relatives (grandparent, great‑grandparent, aunt, uncle, or non‑resident sibling), in‑home providers (care in your home), or an informal family friend who cares only for your child. Minimum age for any provider is 18 and all must meet health/safety checks. (dss.sd.gov)
• Informal and in‑home providers can be paid by the program if they complete training, background checks, and pass an annual home inspection. (dss.sd.gov)
• Background checks for providers (and staff/household adults) include SD and FBI fingerprint checks, sex‑offender checks, and child abuse/neglect registry. (dss.sd.gov)

Income Limits (Effective March 1, 2025)

Eligibility uses a sliding fee scale based on 209% of FPL and your family size. For single moms, the most common household sizes are 2 (you + one child), 3 (you + two children), etc. If your adjusted monthly income is at or below the amount for your household size, you may qualify. (dss.sd.gov)

Table: Monthly income limit at 209% FPL (Adjusted Monthly Income, Effective 3/1/2025)

Source: Am I Eligible – South Dakota DSS Child Care Services. (dss.sd.gov)

What counts as income? DSS counts earned and most unearned income; some types (like student aid, SSI disability, and tax refunds) are not counted. See the full list on DSS. (dss.sd.gov)

How Much Will You Pay Out of Pocket?

• South Dakota uses a sliding co‑payment. DSS determines your co‑pay amount after you apply. The agency points to its CCS Subsidy Manual for the exact co‑pay rules. (dss.sd.gov)
• Independent analysis from South Dakota KIDS COUNT reports that “some families pay a small copay, which costs no more than 1 percent of the family income,” with an example of about $40 per month for a family of three at the top end of eligibility. This gives you a ballpark of what to expect if you’re near the limit. Always rely on DSS’s official determination for your case. (sdkidscount.org)
• The state pays your provider up to the program’s maximum rate for your area, provider type, and your child’s age. Rates are based on market rate surveys; maximums vary by county and provider type. The federal Office of Child Care recommends setting state rates around the 75th percentile of market rates to ensure equal access. South Dakota’s exact rate tables are administered by DSS; ask your caseworker or your provider (they complete a Rate Declaration form) for the maximum in your county. (acf.gov, dss.sd.gov)

Reality check:

• Your total out‑of‑pocket will be your co‑pay plus any difference between what your provider charges and what the state maximum covers (if your provider’s price is higher than the state rate cap for your category).

Tip:

• If you can, choose a provider whose published rate is at or below the state maximum for your area and age group to eliminate or reduce those overages.

Step‑by‑Step: Apply and Get Approved (with Timelines)

The most important action: submit your application immediately. Benefits start based on your application date, not when you first thought about applying.

Table: Application path and timeline

Citations: application, certificate, timeline, and provider billing info. (dss.sd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you haven’t heard back after 10 working days, call 800‑227‑3020 with your application date and ask for a status check. You can also contact the Pierre CCS office directly via the local office directory. (dss.sd.gov)

12‑Month Coverage and When DSS Re‑Checks You

• Once approved, your eligibility and co‑pay are set for 12 months (continuous eligibility). DSS may re‑evaluate during that year only if: your child has unexplained absences over 10 consecutive days, you move out of state, there’s substantiated fraud, or your income rises above 85% of State Median Income (SMI). (law.cornell.edu)
• If you reapply within 30 days after your month of eligibility ends and your income now exceeds 209% FPL, you may still get up to another 12 months of assistance (a continuity rule). Ask DSS if this applies to you. (law.cornell.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re cut off early and you believe none of the listed reasons apply, request clarification in writing and use the appeal procedures included with your notice. See the Administrative Rules section cited above when discussing redeterminations. (law.cornell.edu)

Required Documents: What to Gather Before You Apply

The online application will ask you to pick a provider and report income and household details. To avoid delays, have these ready when you apply. (dss.sd.gov)

Table: Application checklist (bring as many as apply)

Tip:

• If you don’t have a licensed/registered provider yet, use the OLA public search or dial 211 to find one fast. (olapublic.sd.gov, helplinecenter.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If documents are hard to get (new job, no printer), submit the application anyway and tell DSS what you’re missing. Keep your submission date; DSS will tell you what else they need. Call 800‑227‑3020 for help. (dss.sd.gov)

Picking a Provider (including relatives, in‑home, and informal care)

Most important action: confirm the provider you want can be paid by DSS before you start care.

• Licensed centers and registered family day care homes are eligible. Relative, in‑home (care in your home), and “informal” providers (a family friend who cares only for your kids) may also be paid if they complete training, background checks, and pass annual health and safety inspections. (dss.sd.gov)
• Provider background checks include SD and FBI fingerprint checks, sex‑offender checks, and child abuse/neglect registry. These checks must be cleared or the provider cannot be paid. (dss.sd.gov)
• Family day care providers who limit group size (six or fewer) and serve infants/toddlers may qualify for higher reimbursement (25% higher than standard family day care rates). Ask your provider if they are approved for this category; DSS lists maximums on its website and in policy. (law.cornell.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your preferred provider isn’t eligible yet, ask if they’re willing to complete the DSS steps (training, background checks). Or pick a different provider from the public search or via 211 referrals. (olapublic.sd.gov, helplinecenter.org)

How and When Payments Happen

• Once approved, you’ll get a Child Care Certificate showing how much DSS will pay and your eligibility period. DSS sends a copy to your provider; the provider bills DSS for authorized hours. You pay your co‑pay and any overage to the provider. (dss.sd.gov)
• Providers can bill online. DSS pays providers on a regular schedule. Many providers choose direct deposit for faster payment. (dss.sd.gov)
• If your provider uses the Way2Go payment card option for program payments, card delivery takes 7–10 business days after enrollment; payments are normally available by the first business day of the month. (This is provider‑facing info—ask your provider how they receive state payments; you still pay your co‑pay to the provider.) (dss.sd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your provider says they haven’t been paid, have them contact Child Care Services or set up direct deposit using DSS’s payment authorization. (dss.sd.gov)

Real‑World Examples (to see how costs pencil out)

These are examples to help you plan. Your actual amounts are set by DSS (co‑pay) and by your provider’s rate vs. the state maximum in your county and age category.

• Example A (family of 2): You and one toddler. Your adjusted monthly income is $3,600\ast \ast (withinthe2‑personlimit\ast \ast$3,685). DSS determines a small co‑pay (per sliding scale). If your center’s toddler rate is within your county’s maximum, DSS covers the rest after your co‑pay. If the center charges above the state maximum, you pay your co‑pay plus the difference. (dss.sd.gov)
• Example B (family of 3 near the limit): You and two kids. Adjusted income $4,600\ast \ast (underthe3‑personlimit\ast \ast$4,642). South Dakota KIDS COUNT indicates some families pay around 1% of income at the top end (about $46/month)—this is a ballpark. DSS will set your actual co‑pay. If your provider’s rate exceeds the state maximum, you’re responsible for that extra. (sdkidscount.org, dss.sd.gov)

Tip:

• Ask your provider for their published rate and whether it’s at or below DSS’s maximum for your county and your child’s age. Providers complete a Rate Declaration with DSS. (dss.sd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If every provider near you is above the state maximum, consider: registered family day care homes (often lower cost), tribal CCDF providers (for tribal citizens), or a relative/in‑home provider who completes DSS requirements. Use 211 for more options. (dss.sd.gov, helplinecenter.org)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Starting care before confirming your provider is eligible for DSS payments.
• Waiting to apply until you’ve gathered every document. Submit now; send follow‑ups as requested to preserve your date.
• Not checking the 12‑month rules—reporting changes too late or missing reapplication within 30 days after your period ends.
• Choosing a provider whose rates are well above the state maximum, leaving you with a large “overage.”
• Missing the 10 working days processing window follow‑up—if you don’t hear back, call 800‑227‑3020. (dss.sd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call DSS and your local office (directory linked below). If denied, read the notice carefully; appeal rights are included. (dss.sd.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Table: One‑page essentials

Other Programs That Can Stretch Your Child Care Budget

These won’t replace CCS, but they can fill gaps.

• Head Start/Early Head Start (free, comprehensive early learning; birth to 5; income‑based). Use the State Collaboration Office page to find local programs or the Head Start locator. State contact: 605‑773‑4640. See also the South Dakota Head Start Association. (doe.sd.gov, sdheadstart.org)
• CACFP meal reimbursements (for providers): helps programs afford healthy meals, which can stabilize tuition. Parents can ask whether their provider participates. Program info and 2024–25 rate links via SD Department of Education, Child & Adult Nutrition Services. Phone 605‑773‑3413. (doe.sd.gov)
• TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families): monthly cash assistance plus work support; can help with child care during participation. 2025 payment standards (independent living) range from $627\ast \ast (2persons)to\ast \ast$775 (4 persons); shared‑living standards are lower. See DSS TANF page for full table and work hours (typically 30 hours/week, or 20 hours if your youngest is under 6). (dss.sd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call 211 to find local tuition relief programs and nonprofit scholarships in your county. The Helpline can also suggest waitlist strategies for high‑demand infant slots. (helplinecenter.org)

Tribal Child Care (CCDF) Options (for Tribal Citizens)

If you or your child are enrolled citizens of a federally recognized Tribe, your Tribe may operate its own CCDF child care assistance program with separate rules and quicker access. Call your Tribe for details and application steps.

Table: Tribal CCDF contacts in South Dakota

Source: ACF Office of Child Care – Tribal CCDF Contacts by State. (acf.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your Tribe’s CCDF has a waitlist, apply to both Tribal CCDF and State CCS. Ask which can start benefits sooner and whether you can switch later without a gap. (dss.sd.gov)

Local Help and Who to Call

Table: Key numbers and links

Realities Single Moms Report (and how to get through them)

• Infant slots are limited. Start calling providers the day you apply. Ask to be added to multiple waitlists and check back weekly. Use 211 to find less obvious options (registered homes, nearby towns). (helplinecenter.org)
• Schedule changes happen. If your hours change (more or fewer), tell DSS and your provider quickly so authorizations match your real schedule and you don’t face under‑ or over‑payment issues. (dss.sd.gov)
• Paperwork lag. If payroll or class schedules are delayed, send what you have; note what’s pending so your file isn’t closed for being “incomplete.” (dss.sd.gov)
• Co‑pay surprises. Your co‑pay plus any provider overage can feel like a lot. Ask your provider about sibling discounts, sliding tuition scales, or choosing a rate plan within the state maximum to avoid overages. (dss.sd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Talk to a DSS caseworker about switching providers or adjusting authorizations. If you’re on a provider’s waitlist, confirm your spot in writing so you can show due diligence if you must change providers temporarily. (dss.sd.gov)

Diverse Communities: Tailored Tips and Resources

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: If you face bias during provider shopping, report concerns via the Office of Licensing & Accreditation Constituent Portal and request new referrals from 211. Use the public portal to review inspection histories. (olapublic.sd.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: ask potential providers about experience with accommodations. Head Start and Early Head Start reserve slots for children with disabilities and provide screenings and supports at no cost; coordinate with the Head Start Collaboration Office. (doe.sd.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: If you receive VA benefits, note they count as unearned income for CCS eligibility; SSI/VA disability is not counted. Confirm on the DSS income page and bring documentation. (dss.sd.gov)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Eligibility depends on your household members’ statuses. If you’re unsure, apply—DSS will tell you what proof they need. Use 211 for language access and provider searches.
• Tribal citizens: Apply with your Tribe’s CCDF and the State CCS simultaneously to see which starts sooner. Tribal CCDF programs sometimes have different rules and may prioritize members. See the Tribal contact table above. (acf.gov)
• Rural moms with limited access: Consider registered family day care homes or relative/in‑home care that meets DSS requirements while you search for center slots. Use the OLA portal filters and 211 to cast a wider net. (dss.sd.gov, olapublic.sd.gov, helplinecenter.org)
• Single fathers: The CCS program is open to all eligible caregivers—fathers can apply with the same steps and rules. (dss.sd.gov)
• Language access: When you call DSS or 211, ask for an interpreter. Many offices can arrange language services. Use email (CCS@state.sd.us) if that’s easier. (dss.sd.gov)

Regional Resource Snapshot (selected offices)

Table: Major DSS offices for quick contact

Full statewide directory (including Aberdeen, Brookings, Huron, Spearfish, Vermillion, and more): Find Your Local Office. (dss.sd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you can’t reach your local office, call 800‑227‑3020 and ask for Child Care Services in Pierre. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)

Choosing Quality: Safety, Licensing, and Background Checks

• Check inspection results and registration/licensing status through the OLA public portal or ask the provider directly. (olapublic.sd.gov)
• Providers (and adult household members in homes) must pass SD and FBI fingerprint checks, child abuse/neglect registry checks, NCIC sex‑offender checks, and complete health/safety training. (dss.sd.gov)
• In‑home and informal providers are exempt from full licensure but must meet state/federal health and safety rules to get paid by DSS. Expect an annual inspection. (dss.sd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Report concerns about regulated programs via the OLA Constituent Portal and, if needed, to Child Protection Services at 877‑244‑0864. (olapublic.sd.gov)

Head Start & Early Head Start: Free, High‑Quality Care

• What you get: early learning, meals, health/dental/vision screenings, family support; available for pregnancy to age 5; income‑based; 10% of slots reserved for children with disabilities. State contact for Head Start collaboration: 605‑773‑4640. (doe.sd.gov)
• Find programs and learn more: SD Head Start Association and the State Head Start Collaboration Office page. (sdheadstart.org, doe.sd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If the program near you is full, ask to be placed on a waitlist and check Early Head Start home‑based options. Keep your CCS application active for wraparound hours (before/after). (doe.sd.gov)

Food Support Inside Child Care: CACFP

Ask your provider if they participate in CACFP (Child and Adult Care Food Program). It reimburses providers for serving nutritious meals and snacks, which can help stabilize tuition. Info and current rates (PY 2024–2025), SD DOE Child & Adult Nutrition Services: 605‑773‑3413. (doe.sd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your provider doesn’t participate, suggest they contact CANS to join; kids get better meals and programs get support. (doe.sd.gov)

Frequently Asked Questions (South Dakota‑specific)

• How fast will DSS decide?
  Applications must be processed within 10 working days of a complete application. (dss.sd.gov)
• How long do benefits last?
  Usually 12 months. DSS may re‑evaluate early for a few specific reasons (e.g., moving out of state, income above 85% SMI, etc.). (law.cornell.edu)
• Which providers can I use?
  Licensed centers, registered family day care homes, and certain relative, in‑home, or informal providers who meet DSS health/safety and background check rules. (dss.sd.gov)
• What’s my co‑pay?
  It’s based on the sliding fee scale. DSS sets it when you apply. South Dakota KIDS COUNT reports some families near the top of eligibility pay around 1% of income (~$40/month for a family of 3), but your exact co‑pay comes from DSS. (dss.sd.gov, sdkidscount.org)
• Can I get help if I’m in school?
  Yes. CCS covers care while you work or attend school. Provide your class schedule. (dss.sd.gov)
• Are infant/toddler rates different?
  Yes. Rates differ by age and provider type. Some family day care homes that cap enrollment at six and primarily serve infants/toddlers can qualify for a 25% higher maximum. Ask your provider. (law.cornell.edu)
• Do I have to reapply every year?
  Yes, at redetermination. Watch your mail for renewal. If you reapply within 30 days after your eligibility month ends and now exceed 209% FPL, you may still receive up to another 12 months (continuity rule). (law.cornell.edu)
• Can I use a relative?
  Yes, certain relatives (grandparent, great‑grandparent, aunt, uncle, or non‑resident sibling) can be paid if they meet DSS requirements (age 18+, background checks/trainings). (dss.sd.gov)
• Where can I get help finding a provider?
  Use the OLA public portal and dial 211 for the Child Care Helpline. (olapublic.sd.gov, helplinecenter.org)
• Is there a separate program for tribal citizens?
  Yes. Tribal CCDF programs operate in several South Dakota Tribes. Call your Tribe using the contact list above. (acf.gov)

Application Checklist (print or screenshot)

• Government‑issued photo ID (you)
• Social Security numbers (you/children, if available)
• Proof of income (last 30 days pay stubs or self‑employment records)
• Class/training schedule (if applicable)
• Provider information (name, license/registration or relative/in‑home)
• Proof of address (mail, lease, or utility bill)
• Child birthdates (and any custody orders if relevant)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from South Dakota Department of Social Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Disclaimer

Program rules, rates, and eligibility can change. Always confirm details with the South Dakota Department of Social Services Child Care Services or your Tribal CCDF office before making decisions. If you find an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll update this guide promptly.

Sources

• South Dakota DSS – Child Care Services main page (program overview; work/school eligibility; provider info). (dss.sd.gov)
• Apply for South Dakota Child Care Assistance (how to apply; address; email; fax; 10‑day processing; certificate). (dss.sd.gov)
• Am I Eligible? (income limits at 209% FPL; effective March 1, 2025; income counted/not counted; reference to subsidy manual). (dss.sd.gov)
• Provider types: in‑home, informal, registered family day care—requirements, inspections, and definitions. (dss.sd.gov)
• Provider background checks (FBI/SD fingerprint; registries). (dss.sd.gov)
• Administrative Rules (12‑month eligibility; early re‑evaluation reasons; 85% SMI cap; continuity option; infant/toddler 25% rate for small family homes). (law.cornell.edu)
• DSS local office directory (addresses/phones statewide). (dss.sd.gov)
• OLA public portal (search for child care) and Helpline 211 (child care referrals). (olapublic.sd.gov, helplinecenter.org)
• South Dakota KIDS COUNT (context on small co‑pay ~1% of income; example $40/month at top of eligibility). (sdkidscount.org)
• Head Start Collaboration Office (state info, contacts) and SD Head Start Association. (doe.sd.gov, sdheadstart.org)
• CACFP (DOE Child & Adult Nutrition Services). (doe.sd.gov)
• TANF payment standards and work hours. (dss.sd.gov)
• ACF Office of Child Care (rate policy context and 75th percentile recommendation). (acf.gov)
• ACF Tribal CCDF Contacts (South Dakota Tribes). (acf.gov)
• Provider payments (Way2Go card timing; direct deposit for providers). (dss.sd.gov)

What we didn’t include as fixed numbers: county‑by‑county provider maximum rates and the internal CCS co‑pay table, because DSS publishes the sliding scale and refers families to the CCS Subsidy Manual. Ask DSS or your provider for the current maximum in your county and your exact co‑pay amount once your application is processed. (dss.sd.gov)

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