Disability and Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in South Dakota
Disability and Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in South Dakota — 2025 Real‑World Hub
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency help right now
- Call 911: For immediate danger, medical emergencies, or if someone is unsafe.
 - Call or text 988: For mental health crises or suicidal thoughts. 988 connects you to South Dakota’s Helpline Center 24/7. See the state’s crisis page for details. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Energy shutoff or empty fuel tank: Call the DSS Energy Assistance line at 800‑233‑8503. If you have a disconnect notice or less than 20% fuel, ask for ECIP crisis help. Program rules and 2024‑25 income limits are here. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Child safety concerns: If you suspect abuse or neglect, contact Child Protection Services Intake at 877‑244‑0864. Local DSS office listings are posted here. (dss.sd.gov)
 
Quick help box
- Apply for South Dakota Medicaid and CHIP online: Use the DSS portal to apply for Medical Assistance, including the Disabled Children’s Program and waivers. DSS Apply Online (dss.sd.gov)
 - For IEP or school help: Call South Dakota Parent Connection at 800‑640‑4553 for free one‑on‑one parent navigation. South Dakota Parent Connection contact page (sdparent.org)
 - Rights or discrimination help: Call Disability Rights South Dakota at 800‑658‑4782 for legal advocacy. DRSD intake page (drsdlaw.org)
 - Food assistance: Apply for SNAP and check current income limits. DSS SNAP page and FY2025 benefit amounts from USDA. (dss.sd.gov, fns.usda.gov)
 - Heating help: Apply for LIEAP and Weatherization today. DSS Energy & Weatherization Assistance (dss.sd.gov)
 - Assistive technology: Call DakotaLink at 800‑645‑0673 for free device demos/loans and low‑interest AT financing. DakotaLink contact (dakotalink.net)
 
Quick reference cheat sheet
- Medicaid for medically fragile/disabled children (TEFRA/Disabled Children’s Program): Child’s income under 2,901/month∗∗(3002,901/month** (300% of 2025 SSI standard) and resources under **2,000; parents’ income not counted. Apply via DSS Medical Assistance. DSS Disabled Children’s Program (dss.sd.gov)
 - Family Support 360 and CHOICES (IDD waivers): For children with developmental disabilities; income limit 300% of SSI (=2,901/monthin2025)∗∗and∗∗2,901/month in 2025)** and **2,000 resource limit for the child; services include respite, adaptive equipment, home/vehicle mods, service coordination. DSS Medicaid Waivers overview (dss.sd.gov)
 - CHIP/Medicaid for kids: Income limits vary by insurance status; examples for 2025 — “Children without private insurance,” household of 3 up to 4,642/month∗∗;“Childrenwithprivateinsurance,”householdof3upto∗∗4,642/month**; “Children with private insurance,” household of 3 up to **4,153/month. DSS CHIP page (dss.sd.gov)
 - SNAP maximums (FY2025, lower‑48): 1 person 292∗∗,2∗∗292**, 2 **536, 3 768∗∗,4∗∗768**, 4 **975, 5 1,158∗∗,6∗∗1,158**, 6 **1,390, 7 1,536∗∗,8∗∗1,536**, 8 **1,756; each additional +$220. [USDA FNS FY2025 COLA memo PDF] (fns.usda.gov)
 - WIC fruit and vegetable benefit (FY2025): Children 26/month∗∗;pregnant/postpartum∗∗26/month**; pregnant/postpartum **47/month; fully or mostly breastfeeding $52/month. USDA WIC FY2025 CVB amounts (fns.usda.gov)
 - TANF cash (payment standards): Example, 3‑person “independent living” 701/month∗∗;“sharedliving”∗∗701/month**; “shared living” **507/month. DSS TANF FAQs with tables (dss.sd.gov)
 - Child Care Assistance income ceiling: Up to 209% FPL (effective March 1, 2025). Example: family of 3 up to 4,642/month∗∗;familyof4upto∗∗4,642/month**; family of 4 up to **5,599/month. DSS Child Care Assistance eligibility (dss.sd.gov)
 
What’s different about this guide
Straight to the point: We lead with the action step and phone number.
Verified 2025 numbers: Amounts and limits come from DSS, USDA, SSA, and the SD Department of Health, with links.
Reality checks: We include processing times, common pitfalls, and Plan B options when waitlists or denials happen.
Local, statewide, and tribal resources: With direct contacts and statewide hotlines.
Medicaid and CHIP for disabled children in South Dakota
Start here — the fastest track for full medical coverage
- Apply online: Use the DSS portal to apply for South Dakota Medicaid, CHIP, and the Disabled Children’s Program. DSS Apply Online. You can also submit at your local DSS office (find addresses and phones on the state listing). (dss.sd.gov)
 - If your child needs a higher level of in‑home nursing or is medically fragile: Ask specifically for the Disabled Children’s Program (often called TEFRA). Eligibility uses only the child’s income and resources. Income must be below 2,901/month∗∗(3002,901/month** (300% of the 2025 SSI standard) and resources under **2,000; parents’ income is not counted. Program criteria and 2025 figures. (dss.sd.gov)
 - If your child has an intellectual or developmental disability: Ask about Family Support 360 and CHOICES waivers. Both cap income at 300% of the SSI standard (2,901/month∗∗in2025)anda∗∗2,901/month** in 2025) and a **2,000 resource limit for the child. Services can include service coordination, respite, adaptive equipment and supplies, home/vehicle modifications, personal care, supported employment, and more. Waiver details. (dss.sd.gov)
 - For routine coverage and CHIP: If your child doesn’t meet disability criteria, you may still qualify under Medicaid/CHIP income rules. For 2025, example monthly gross income limits for CHIP “children without private insurance” are: household of 3 4,642∗∗,4∗∗4,642**, 4 **5,599; with private insurance: household of 3 4,153∗∗,4∗∗4,153**, 4 **5,010. DSS Medicaid Coverage Groups page. (dss.sd.gov)
 
Required documents
- Proof of identity and citizenship: Birth certificate or passport for your child.
 - Medical evidence: Recent specialist notes, discharge summaries, therapy evaluations, nursing orders, and a physician statement describing care needed at home.
 - Income: Child’s income only for the Disabled Children’s Program (e.g., child support, survivor benefits).
 - Resources: Statement of the child’s assets (must be under $2,000 for disability categories). (dss.sd.gov)
 
Typical timeline and tips
- Reality check: Disability‑based Medicaid can take longer when medical evidence is incomplete. Keep copies, and respond quickly to requests.
 - Tip: Ask your child’s doctor to write an in‑home level of care letter that spells out why hospital‑ or nursing‑facility‑level care would be required without in‑home nursing/orders. This aligns with the Disabled Children’s Program criteria. (dss.sd.gov)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Appeal: Request a fair hearing by the deadline on your denial letter (call 800‑597‑1603 to discuss options). Medicaid phone list. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Get help: Call Disability Rights South Dakota at 800‑658‑4782 for advocacy. DRSD intake page (drsdlaw.org)
 
Early intervention and school services
Birth to Three (Part C Early Intervention)
- First step: Call 800‑305‑3064 to reach SD Birth to Three and get a service coordinator assigned; or see the referral page with contacts. SD Birth to Three. (doe.sd.gov)
 - What you get: Evaluation and an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP), services in your home or childcare setting, and coaching for daily routines. Program overview. (doe.sd.gov)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Escalate: Call the SD Department of Education Special Education Programs at 605‑773‑3678. DOE Special Education page. (doe.sd.gov)
 - Parent navigation: South Dakota Parent Connection 800‑640‑4553 can coach you through the process and meetings. (sdparent.org)
 
School‑age special education (IEP)
- Action first: Send your school a short written request for a special education evaluation.
 - Know your rights: See the state’s Parental Rights and Procedural Safeguards and Parent Guide (English/Spanish). DOE parent rights page. (doe.sd.gov)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Bring support: Ask SD Parent Connection to join meetings or review documents with you. 800‑640‑4553. (sdparent.org)
 - Legal help: Contact Disability Rights South Dakota. 800‑658‑4782. (drsdlaw.org)
 
Waivers and in‑home supports that matter day‑to‑day
Family Support 360 (self‑directed) and CHOICES (IDD)
- Start here: Indicate in your Medicaid/CHIP application that your child has a developmental disability and you want home‑ and community‑based services.
 - Key 2025 eligibility: Child meets developmental disability criteria and has income under 2,901/month∗∗(3002,901/month** (300% of SSI); resource limit **2,000. DSS Waiver details. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Services: Service coordination, respite, personal care, adaptive equipment/supplies, home/vehicle modifications, supported employment (as age‑appropriate), and more. (dss.sd.gov)
 
Reality checks and tips
- Reality check: Some services require prior authorization and provider availability; expect waits for home/vehicle modifications.
 - Tip: Keep a one‑page “care snapshot” listing diagnoses, meds, equipment, and safety risks—service coordinators can use this to justify needed hours or equipment.
 
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask about interim supports: While waiting, your child may qualify for Medicaid EPSDT services, state plan personal care, or clinic therapies covered by Medicaid/CHIP. Start through your child’s primary care provider. Medicaid recipient info. (dss.sd.gov)
 
Health coverage numbers at a glance (2025)
| Program | Who it helps | Key 2025 numbers | Where to apply | 
|---|---|---|---|
| Disabled Children’s Program (TEFRA) | Medically fragile/disabled children needing in‑home nursing‑level care | Child income < 2,901/month∗∗;resources<∗∗2,901/month**; resources < **2,000; parents’ income not counted | DSS Medical Assistance (dss.sd.gov) | 
| Family Support 360 (HCBS) | Children with DD living with family | Income < 2,901/month∗∗;∗∗2,901/month**; **2,000 resources; services include respite, equipment, mods | Same as above (dss.sd.gov) | 
| CHOICES (HCBS) | Children and adults with IDD | Income < 2,901/month∗∗;∗∗2,901/month**; **2,000 resources; day/residential supports, employment | Same as above (dss.sd.gov) | 
| Medicaid/CHIP | Low‑ to moderate‑income kids | CHIP examples without private insurance: 3‑person 4,642/month∗∗,4‑person∗∗4,642/month**, 4‑person **5,599/month | DSS Coverage Groups (dss.sd.gov) | 
Food and nutrition
SNAP (food stamps)
- Apply online: DSS SNAP. 2025 gross income and net income limits are posted, and benefits are calculated using USDA rules. (dss.sd.gov)
 - FY2025 maximum monthly benefits (lower‑48):
 
| Household size | Max SNAP benefit | 
|---|---|
| 1 | $292 | 
| 2 | $536 | 
| 3 | $768 | 
| 4 | $975 | 
| 5 | $1,158 | 
| 6 | $1,390 | 
| 7 | $1,536 | 
| 8 | $1,756 | 
| Each additional | +$220 | 
Source: USDA SNAP FY2025 COLA (effective Oct 1, 2024–Sept 30, 2025). (fns.usda.gov)
- Important deductions: FY2025 standard deduction 204∗∗(HHof1–3),sheltercap∗∗204** (HH of 1–3), shelter cap **712, min benefit 23∗∗,assets∗∗23**, assets **3,000 (or $4,500 if household includes someone 60+ or disabled). Details in the USDA memo. (fns.usda.gov)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Short‑term food: Call 211 to locate pantries and community meals in your county (Helpline Center). (dss.sd.gov)
 
WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)
- Apply or check eligibility: South Dakota WIC program. As of July 1, 2025, income guidelines were updated (185% FPL). News and contact info are posted by the SD Department of Health. (doh.sd.gov)
 - Monthly fruit/vegetable benefit (CVB) FY2025: Child 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, fully/mostly breastfeeding $52. (fns.usda.gov)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Combine resources: Use WIC plus SNAP for better coverage of specialized diets. Ask your WIC office to coordinate with your child’s specialists for formula or medically prescribed foods.
 
Cash and childcare support
TANF cash assistance
- Apply: Start with an employment specialist through DSS or the Department of Labor; then eligibility is handled by DSS. DSS TANF. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Payment standards: Examples for families with a parent in the home (“independent living” vs “shared living”) — 3‑person 701∗∗vs∗∗701** vs **507; 4‑person 775∗∗vs∗∗775** vs **581. See the full table up to 12 persons. (dss.sd.gov)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If denied for technical reasons: Reapply with complete verification, and ask your worker how to align a work plan with your child’s care schedule. Consider SNAP and LIEAP as immediate supports. (dss.sd.gov)
 
Child Care Assistance (CCAP)
- Who qualifies: Working or in school, income up to 209% FPL (effective March 1, 2025). Examples: family of 3 up to 4,642/month∗∗;familyof4upto∗∗4,642/month**; family of 4 up to **5,599/month. Eligibility page with income chart. (dss.sd.gov)
 - How to apply: Online or by mail; DSS processes within about 10 business days. Contact Child Care Services at 800‑227‑3020 or email CCS@state.sd.us. How to Apply. (dss.sd.gov)
 
Reality checks and tips
- Reality check: Some providers have limited openings for children with higher care needs. Ask about staff‑to‑child ratios and experience with your child’s needs.
 - Tip: If your preferred provider isn’t registered, they can contact a DSS Licensing Specialist to get set up so you can use your subsidy. (dss.sd.gov)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Plan B: Request flexible scheduling, backup sitters, or respite options through Family Support 360 if eligible. (dss.sd.gov)
 
Heating, utilities, and weatherization
- LIEAP (heating help): Income limits for the 2024‑2025 heating season (3‑month gross income) — 1 person 7,530∗∗,2∗∗7,530**, 2 **10,220, 3 12,910∗∗,4∗∗12,910**, 4 **15,858, etc. Payments go to your energy vendor. Apply online or by mail; check status at 800‑233‑8503. DSS Energy Assistance page. (dss.sd.gov)
 - ECIP crisis component: If you have a shutoff notice or <20% fuel, contact 800‑233‑8503 or email DSSHeat@state.sd.us for emergency help. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Weatherization: Priority for households with disabled members; delivered by local community action agencies. County lists and contacts are on the state page. (dss.sd.gov)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Plan B: Ask your energy company about medical protection policies or payment plans while LIEAP is pending; call 211 to locate one‑time help from local nonprofits. (dss.sd.gov)
 
Medical travel and transportation
- Covered rides: Medicaid covers non‑emergency transportation to Medicaid‑covered appointments through community or secure (wheelchair/stretcher) transport, and reimburses out‑of‑town medical travel under NEMT. DSS transportation options. (dss.sd.gov)
 - NEMT reimbursements: Mileage is reimbursed between cities; lodging and meals are reimbursable only if the provider is 150+ miles from your city and an overnight is medically necessary. Claims must be filed within 6 months of service. For questions, call 866‑403‑1433 (NEMT). NEMT FAQs and NEMT portal. (dss.sd.gov)
 
Documents to bring
- NEMT Appointment Verification form signed by the provider
 - Referral if traveling to a specialty provider
 - Lodging receipt if claiming overnight reimbursement (dss.sd.gov)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Plan B: Ask your provider to bill telehealth when appropriate; check local public transit or paratransit programs; and ask your service coordinator about volunteer driver options.
 
SSI for children with disabilities
- 2025 Federal Benefit Rate (FBR): Max federal SSI is $967/month (individual). This figure is also used by South Dakota Medicaid to set the 300% income test for disability pathways. See SSA’s official 2025 amounts. (ssa.gov)
 - Good to know: As of late 2024, SSA stopped counting food provided by others as in‑kind support when calculating SSI—shelter help still counts. If SSI is in play, coordinate with your SNAP/WIC and Medicaid applications carefully. (ssa.gov)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Plan B: If your child is denied, request reconsideration and supply new medical evidence; ask DRSD (800‑658‑4782) or SD Parent Connection (800‑640‑4553) to review your file. (drsdlaw.org, sdparent.org)
 
Local medical and therapy resources
- LifeScape: Statewide leader for pediatric rehab, inpatient children’s specialty hospital, outpatient clinics in Sioux Falls and Rapid City, orthotics/prosthetics via RISE. Main inquiries 605‑444‑9556; specialty school admissions 605‑444‑9853. Children’s Specialty Hospital and Locations. (lifescapesd.org)
 - DakotAbilities: Sioux Falls nonprofit supporting adults with disabilities — accessible housing, day services, employment supports, and 24/7 nursing guidance. Development/Donations office 605‑444‑6183. DakotAbilities (dakotabilities.org)
 - DakotaLink (Assistive Technology): Device demonstrations, short‑term loans, reuse, and low‑interest AT loans. Statewide toll‑free 800‑645‑0673; regional numbers listed on site. DakotaLink contact (dakotalink.net)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Plan B: Ask your Medicaid service coordinator to request equipment under the waiver or Medicaid State Plan DME; check DakotaLink’s reuse options while orders process. (dss.sd.gov, dakotalink.net)
 
Housing and rent
- Section 8 and public housing: In South Dakota, vouchers are administered by local housing authorities; wait lists can be long. Use SDHDA’s resources and rental search to find income‑restricted units faster. SDHDA affordable housing guide and rental search and What is Affordable Housing. General SDHDA contact 605‑773‑3181. (info.sdhda.org)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Plan B: Ask case managers about security‑deposit help (SDHDA SDAP where available) and short‑term motel or shelter options via 211; combine with LIEAP to stabilize utilities. (info.sdhda.org, dss.sd.gov)
 
Diverse communities and tailored tips
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Know your rights: Medicaid, SNAP, and WIC eligibility do not depend on sexual orientation or gender identity. If you face discrimination in school or healthcare, contact Disability Rights South Dakota at 800‑658‑4782 and SD Parent Connection for school meetings at 800‑640‑4553. (drsdlaw.org, sdparent.org)
 - Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask for EPSDT‑covered services: Medicaid must cover medically necessary services for kids under 21 when ordered by a provider. Pair with Family Support 360 to fund respite/equipment not covered elsewhere. Start through DSS Medicaid and your PCP. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Veteran single mothers: Use both VA and state supports: You can receive VA care and DSS programs if you meet eligibility. In a mental health crisis, dial 988 then press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Immigrant and refugee single moms: Language access: Agencies must provide interpretation at no cost in eligibility interviews. WIC and school special education rights are available regardless of immigration status for eligible children. Coordinate with SD Parent Connection for school help. (sdparent.org)
 - Tribal citizens: Use IHS and Tribal programs together with state benefits: You can apply for Medicaid/CHIP, SNAP, WIC, LIEAP even if you use IHS clinics. For travel to out‑of‑area specialists, check NEMT combined with tribal transportation. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Rural single moms with limited access: Use telehealth and NEMT: Ask providers to schedule telehealth when appropriate; NEMT can reimburse out‑of‑town trips when criteria are met (150+ miles overnight rule). Helpline 211 can locate local transit/volunteer drivers. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Single fathers and kin caregivers: Eligibility is about the child: These programs also apply to dads and relatives raising disabled children; SD Parent Connection supports all caregivers. (sdparent.org)
 - Language access: Ask for an interpreter: DSS, DOE, WIC, and Medicaid must provide free interpretation/translation when needed. Bring your own helper too, but the agency still must provide qualified language services. (Check each agency’s civil rights/LEP policies on their sites.)
 
Tables you can use today
South Dakota Medicaid and CHIP for children — 2025 income highlights
| Coverage | Household size | Max gross monthly income (examples) | Source | 
|---|---|---|---|
| CHIP, without private insurance | 3 | $4,642 | (dss.sd.gov) | 
| CHIP, without private insurance | 4 | $5,599 | (dss.sd.gov) | 
| CHIP, with private insurance | 3 | $4,153 | (dss.sd.gov) | 
| CHIP, with private insurance | 4 | $5,010 | (dss.sd.gov) | 
| Disabled Children’s Program | Child | <2,901/month∗∗;resources∗∗<2,901/month**; resources **<2,000 | (dss.sd.gov) | 
| Family Support 360 / CHOICES | Child | <2,901/month∗∗;resources∗∗<2,901/month**; resources **<2,000 | (dss.sd.gov) | 
SNAP FY2025 maximum monthly benefits — lower‑48
| HH size | Max benefit | HH size | Max benefit | 
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $292 | 5 | $1,158 | 
| 2 | $536 | 6 | $1,390 | 
| 3 | $768 | 7 | $1,536 | 
| 4 | $975 | 8 | $1,756 | 
Each additional person +$220. Source: USDA FY2025 COLA memo. (fns.usda.gov)
TANF monthly payment standards (selected sizes)
| Assistance unit size | Independent living | Shared living | 
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $512 | $317 | 
| 2 | $627 | $432 | 
| 3 | $701 | $507 | 
| 4 | $775 | $581 | 
| 5 | $848 | $654 | 
| 6 | $922 | $728 | 
Full table up to 12 is on the TANF page. (dss.sd.gov)
Child Care Assistance income ceiling — effective March 1, 2025 (209% FPL)
| Family size | Max monthly income | 
|---|---|
| 2 | $3,685 | 
| 3 | $4,642 | 
| 4 | $5,599 | 
| 5 | $6,558 | 
| 6 | $7,516 | 
| 7 | $8,473 | 
Source: DSS Child Care Services. (dss.sd.gov)
Medicaid NEMT quick rules
| Rule | What it means | 
|---|---|
| Mileage reimbursement | Paid between cities for eligible trips; check NEMT portal for current rate and submit within 6 months. (dss.sd.gov) | 
| Overnight support | Lodging/meals reimbursed only if the provider is 150+ miles away and overnight is medically necessary. (dss.sd.gov) | 
| Documentation | Bring the NEMT Appointment Verification form; get it signed by the provider; keep receipts. (dss.sd.gov) | 
| Questions | Call NEMT at 866‑403‑1433. (dss.sd.gov) | 
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing the specific program name: When you apply, say you want the Disabled Children’s Program or Family Support 360 if those fit your child. This triggers the correct disability pathway. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Not sending full medical documentation: For TEFRA/Disabled Children’s Program, approvals hinge on documented in‑home nursing‑level tasks (suctioning, tube feeds with nursing oversight, seizure rescue protocol, etc.). Ask providers for concise letters.
 - Waiting on one program only: Apply for SNAP, WIC, LIEAP, and Child Care Assistance at the same time to stabilize food, heat, and childcare. (dss.sd.gov, fns.usda.gov)
 - Missing NEMT paperwork: Claims without signed verification are denied; track deadlines (6 months) and keep receipts. (dss.sd.gov)
 
Application checklist
- Photo ID and child’s birth certificate: Copies for medical and SNAP/WIC files.
 - Medical records: Clinic notes, therapy evaluations, orders for in‑home services, and the in‑home level‑of‑care letter.
 - Insurance cards: Any current coverage or denial letters.
 - Income proof: For income‑based programs (pay stubs, benefit letters). For the Disabled Children’s Program, submit only the child’s income and assets. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Bills and rent/lease: For SNAP deductions and LIEAP; recent utility bill or fuel receipt. (dss.sd.gov)
 - School paperwork: IEP/504, evaluations, and teacher letters.
 
Realistic timelines and what to expect
- Medicaid/CHIP: Processing time varies based on verification and disability evidence. Respond to DSS requests quickly and keep copies. Medicaid contact list and recipient info. (dss.sd.gov)
 - SNAP: Interviews are usually by phone; expedited benefits may be available for very low income households. DSS SNAP. (dss.sd.gov)
 - LIEAP: State posts processing within 60 days and an emergency line for ECIP. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Child Care Assistance: DSS indicates processing within about 10 business days after a complete application. (dss.sd.gov)
 
Where to get person‑to‑person help
- Local DSS office: Find addresses, phones, and emails by city (Sioux Falls office 605‑367‑5444). DSS local office listings. (dss.sd.gov)
 - South Dakota Parent Connection: 800‑640‑4553 — parent training, IEP navigation, transition fairs. (sdparent.org)
 - Disability Rights South Dakota: 800‑658‑4782 — legal advocacy; intake form online. (drsdlaw.org)
 - DakotaLink (Assistive Tech): 800‑645‑0673 — device demos/loans, reuse, and financing. (dakotalink.net)
 - LifeScape: Pediatric rehab, specialty hospital and outpatient therapies — main inquiries 605‑444‑9556. (lifescapesd.org)
 - Helpline Center: Dial 211 for food, rent help, transit, and local supports statewide. (dss.sd.gov)
 
What if you’re denied or stuck on a waitlist
- Ask for the denial reason in writing: Then fix exactly what’s missing (proof, signature, medical detail) and reapply within the stated deadline.
 - Appeal on time: Follow the appeal instructions on your notice; call Medicaid Recipient Hotline 800‑597‑1603 with questions. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Use interim supports: SNAP, WIC, LIEAP, and CCAP can keep food, heat, and childcare stable while you wait. (dss.sd.gov, fns.usda.gov)
 
About this guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: This guide uses official sources from South Dakota Department of Social Services, South Dakota Department of Health, South Dakota Department of Education, USDA, SSA, and established nonprofits.
How we work: We verify each key policy against primary state or federal materials and link directly to applications, handbooks, and phone lists. See our Editorial Standards.
Last verified: September 2025 — next review April 2026.
Contact us: Corrections or updates — info@asinglemother.org.
Disclaimer
Accuracy and changes: Program rules, amounts, and timelines can change. Always confirm details with the relevant agency before applying or deciding. Where we could not locate a firm dollar amount (for example, current NEMT mileage reimbursement), we linked to the official fee schedule or program page and provided the program’s phone number for the most current rate. (dss.sd.gov)
Not legal advice: This guide is for general information and is not legal advice or a guarantee of benefits.
Security: For your privacy, do not email full SSNs or medical records to any site; use official portals or secure channels listed by DSS, DOH, DOE, SSA, and USDA. If you use public Wi‑Fi to apply online, log out and avoid saving passwords on shared devices.
Sources cited
- South Dakota DSS — Medicaid Coverage Groups, 2025 amounts and waiver summaries. (dss.sd.gov)
 - South Dakota DSS — Medicaid general info and recipient pages. (dss.sd.gov)
 - South Dakota DOE — Birth to Three referrals and contacts. (doe.sd.gov)
 - South Dakota DOE — Parent rights and safeguards. (doe.sd.gov)
 - USDA FNS — SNAP FY2025 COLA memo (maximums, deductions, assets). (fns.usda.gov)
 - DSS SNAP pages with eligibility tables. (dss.sd.gov)
 - USDA FNS — WIC FY2025 CVB amounts. (fns.usda.gov)
 - SD DOH — WIC program and 2025 income guideline announcement. (doh.sd.gov)
 - DSS TANF — payment standards and program details. (dss.sd.gov)
 - DSS Child Care Services — eligibility (209% FPL) and application. (dss.sd.gov)
 - DSS Energy/Weatherization — LIEAP, ECIP crisis, income limits, and contact. (dss.sd.gov)
 - DSS Transportation — NEMT and community/secure transport; FAQs and portal. (dss.sd.gov)
 - SSA — SSI 2025 payment amounts. (ssa.gov)
 - DRSD — statewide legal advocacy contacts. (drsdlaw.org)
 - SD Parent Connection — statewide parent training and assistance contacts. (sdparent.org)
 - DakotaLink — statewide assistive technology contacts. (dakotalink.net)
 - LifeScape — Children’s Specialty Hospital and contact numbers. (lifescapesd.org)
 - Helpline Center — 988 and 211 statewide connections. (dss.sd.gov)
 
If you need tailored help with your specific situation, tell us your city, your child’s age/diagnoses, and which applications you already filed. We’ll map out an order of operations and a call‑back checklist you can use with your county worker or service coordinator.
🏛️More South Dakota Resources for Single Mothers
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 - 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
 - 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
 - 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
 - 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
 - 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
 - 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
 - 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
 - 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
 - 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
 - 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
 - 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
 
