Digital Literacy and Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in South Dakota
Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in South Dakota
Last updated: September 2025
This guide shows you real steps that work in South Dakota. Every section starts with the single most important action first, and ends with a backup plan. Look for bold action prompts, short steps, and links inside the text so you can click and move fast.
According to state and federal sources, programs and rules listed below are active as of September 2025; amounts and timelines can change when funding shifts, so verify before you apply. You’ll see, “Call to confirm current availability” throughout the guide. That’s on purpose. Funding gets tight in late fall and late spring, and waitlists grow faster during those months. Use the contacts right away and keep notes. For benefits, you usually have appeal rights, and we show where to file. For utility shutoffs, use the steps under “How to Stop Utility Shutoff in South Dakota Today.” For internet and devices, go straight to Lifeline and low‑cost providers in the “Get Internet Now” section.
— ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Call 211 now: Ask for food, rent, and utility help near you. The Helpline Center covers all 66 counties and can text you links if you prefer. Dial 211 or text your ZIP to 898211, and visit Helpline Center 211. (helplinecenter.org)
 - Apply online for SNAP and Medicaid today: Use the state portal to apply for food help and health coverage in one sitting; upload what you have and add the rest later. Start at South Dakota DSS SNAP & Medical portal and South Dakota Medicaid. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Stop a utility shutoff: Call your utility and ask for a payment plan, then file a complaint or get mediation help from the South Dakota PUC if needed. Use PUC Consumer Assistance and, if heat is at risk, apply for Low Income Energy Assistance right away. (puc.sd.gov)
 
Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy
- DSS SNAP line: 1-877-999-5612 for food benefits; online info at DSS SNAP. (dss.sd.gov)
 - WIC for moms and kids under 5: Apply at South Dakota WIC or sd.gov/wic; local offices can schedule appointments. (doh.sd.gov)
 - PUC Consumer Affairs: 1-800-332-1782 for shutoffs, billing disputes, and payment‑plan help; see PUC Consumer Information. (puc.sd.gov)
 - EBT card help: Lost/stolen card or fraud? Call 1-800-604-5099; see South Dakota EBT for FAQs. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Domestic violence help: State hotline 1-800-430-7233; shelters via SD Network Against Family Violence & Sexual Assault; Sioux Falls 1-605-338-4880, Rapid City 1-888-716-9284. (sdnafvsa.com)
 
Getting Internet and a Device Fast (Digital Literacy Starts With Connectivity)
Top action: Apply for Lifeline and a low‑cost plan today. The federal Affordable Connectivity Program ended in 2024, so the main national discount now is Lifeline. You can get up to a 9.25monthlydiscount(upto9.25 monthly discount (up to 34.25 on Tribal lands) on phone or broadband. Start at FCC Lifeline, and if a website still mentions ACP discounts, note that the FCC confirmed ACP ended June 2024 here: FCC ACP Status. Call to confirm current prices before switching. (fcc.gov)
Many South Dakota providers participate in Lifeline. For example, Midco posts Lifeline details and will help you apply over the phone; see Midco Internet Assistance (Lifeline), and CenturyLink/Lumen (Quantum Fiber) also enrolls eligible households; see CenturyLink Lifeline overview. Ask providers to stack any local discounts with Lifeline and to quote “all‑in” prices, including modem fees. (midco.com)
If you need a computer now, order a refurbished laptop or desktop that qualifies for nonprofit pricing. PCs for People ships statewide and offers low‑cost devices to income‑qualifying families, and Human‑I‑T sells discounted laptops and low‑cost hotspot plans. If you prefer local pickup or want to donate a device, check refurbishers through Digitunity’s refurbisher map. (pcsrefurbished.com)
Reality check: ACP is over. The FCC’s ACP wind‑down notices explain that enrollment closed February 2024 and the last month of full benefits was spring 2024. If a site still advertises ACP “free internet,” treat it as outdated and report scams via FCC ACP advisory. Plan for Lifeline and low‑cost plans instead, and verify anything that sounds “too good to be true.” (fcc.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the PUC Consumer Affairs team for a list of Lifeline‑participating carriers and help with provider complaints. Use PUC Consumer Information (800‑332‑1782), and consider library Wi‑Fi and computer labs until service starts—see South Dakota State Library digital services for statewide access details. (puc.sd.gov)
Quick digital‑skills training you can start this week
Local libraries and the state library offer beginner‑friendly classes and free online tools. Siouxland Libraries runs “Technology for Beginners” and 1:1 tech help, and Rapid City Public Library offers “Book a Librarian” for device and online help. The SD State Library eCard gives you home access to statewide databases and tutorials; many resources auto‑authenticate by location using GeoIP. (siouxlandlib.org)
If you want structured classes, DLR Job Service offices provide free virtual workshops on resumes, interviewing, and digital tools, and Workforce Services Online includes Big Interview and Google Career Certificates. Call ahead for appointments and ask for virtual options if you lack childcare. (dlr.sd.gov)
How to Stop Utility Shutoff in South Dakota Today
Top action: Call your utility and set a payment arrangement first, then contact the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) if you can’t reach a workable plan. The PUC Consumer Affairs line (1-800-332-1782) mediates with investor‑owned electric, gas, and phone companies and can explain notice rules for winter disconnections and holidays. Start at PUC Consumer Assistance and PUC Consumer Information. (puc.sd.gov)
Next, apply for Low Income Energy Assistance (LIEAP) with DSS. For the 2024–2025 heating season, DSS lists maximum three‑month income limits; payments go to your energy vendor. Apply online or by paper via DSS Energy Assistance (LIEAP); phone help is at 1-800-233-8503. Ask your utility about budget billing and late‑fee waivers while your LIEAP is pending. (dss.sd.gov)
In winter, disconnections can still happen with proper notice for investor‑owned utilities, but timelines and holiday rules change. The PUC’s FAQ notes utilities may disconnect in winter with extended notice, and the PUC lists no‑disconnect holidays under ARSD 20:10:20:06. Review Electric Service Laws FAQ and PUC Holidays (no holiday disconnects). (puc.sd.gov)
If you use natural gas, clear meters and vents after storms; PUC reports house explosions tied to packed ice and snow. See safety tips in this release and call your gas company if heavy ice builds up. Read PUC gas meter safety alert. (puc.sd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: File an informal complaint with PUC (online or by phone) and document dates, who you spoke with, and any medical needs. Use PUC complaints page. Also call 211 to ask about local church funds and seasonal utility grants near you at Helpline Center 211. (puc.sd.gov)
Food, Formula, and Diapers — Fast Options
Top action: Use the Feeding South Dakota Mobile Food Distribution calendar to pick up a grocery box this month; no ID needed for your own household. Find a distribution and rules (including one pick‑up per month) at Feeding South Dakota Mobile and use the Find Food Map for locations. (feedingsouthdakota.org)
Apply for SNAP food benefits right now online. Start your application and upload what you have; you may get expedited processing if your income and assets are low enough. See DSS SNAP apply and note the gross income guidelines posted by DSS; call 1-877-999-5612 if you have portal trouble. (dss.sd.gov)
If you’re pregnant or have children under five, WIC covers food packages and nutrition support. As of July 1, 2025, South Dakota posted updated income limits (185% FPL). Learn more and apply at South Dakota WIC; you can apply online at sd.gov/wic. (doh.sd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 211 for diaper banks and local pantries (some churches stock formula), and call the EBT help line if your SNAP card is skimmed or stolen. Use Helpline Center 211 and South Dakota EBT (1‑800‑604‑5099). (helplinecenter.org)
Cash, Child Care, and Health Coverage
Top action: Apply for SNAP, Medicaid, and Child Care Assistance in the same sitting if you can. Use the DSS portals and call back if you get timed out. For child care help, South Dakota sets a sliding fee scale up to 209% FPL (effective March 1, 2025). Start at Child Care Assistance (income chart) and call 1-800-227-3020 for enrollment. (dss.sd.gov)
If you need temporary cash, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) can provide a monthly payment plus a work plan with an Employment Specialist. DSS posts payment standards (different for independent vs. shared living), work hours, and a 60‑month lifetime limit. Read DSS TANF and ask the DLR Job Service office about TANF‑linked training. (dss.sd.gov)
For medical appointments, South Dakota Medicaid offers coverage for kids and adults under expansion rules. Use the Medicaid Recipient Hotline (1‑800‑597‑1603) for questions, and if you need a ride to covered care, ask about Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation at 1-866-403-1433 or the NEMT portal. (dss.sd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Request a fair hearing if you think a DSS decision is wrong. TANF has short deadlines; see DSS Fair Hearing Instructions and keep all notices. Ask your local DSS office for help locating childcare while you appeal; use Find Your Local DSS Office. (dss.sd.gov)
Get Internet Now — Low‑Cost Options (Summary Table)
Below are typical low‑cost choices single moms in South Dakota use in 2025. Confirm availability at your address before ordering.
| Provider or program | Typical price/benefit | How to qualify | Where to start | 
|---|---|---|---|
| Lifeline (FCC) | Up to 9.25/modiscount(upto9.25/mo discount (up to 34.25 Tribal) | Income or program‑based | FCC Lifeline | 
| Midco Lifeline | Lifeline discount on select tiers; no install fee, modem rent‑free | Qualify for Lifeline | Midco Internet Assistance | 
| CenturyLink/Quantum Fiber Lifeline | Lifeline discount on broadband or voice | Qualify for Lifeline | CenturyLink Lifeline | 
| Human‑I‑T hotspots + devices | Low‑cost hotspot plans; laptops from ~$150 | Income or benefit eligibility | Human‑I‑T Store | 
| PCs for People devices | Refurbished desktops/laptops (eligibility required) | Income or program‑based | PCs for People | 
According to the FCC, ACP discounts ended in 2024. Do not share personal info with sites pretending to enroll you in ACP; report to the FCC. See ACP end notice. (fcc.gov)
Work, Training, and Digital Upskilling
Top action: Call your nearest DLR Job Service office for a same‑week appointment (virtual or in‑person). They connect you to free workshops, one‑on‑one resume help, and training paid through WIOA or SD UpSkill. Start at Find a Job Service Office and browse Workforce Services Online for Big Interview and additional free tools. (dlr.sd.gov)
Adult Education & Literacy programs build reading, math, English, and digital skills for work and GED prep. DLR explains AEL services and lists local providers serving Aberdeen, Sioux Falls, Rapid City, and more. Learn what’s covered at AEL overview and check provider contacts at AEL program providers. (dlr.sd.gov)
You can also learn tech basics at libraries. Siouxland Libraries offers “Getting Started with Library Apps,” and Rapid City Public Library supports “Book a Librarian” for device help. The SD State Library eCard extends database access at home. (siouxland.libnet.info)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your Employment Specialist about fee help for testing, gas cards, childcare, and work gear through TANF Work or WIOA. DLR notes supports like tuition assistance and dependent care under TANF Work. See TANF Work supports and request virtual services if transport is an issue via DLR virtual services. (dss.sd.gov)
Housing Basics (Rent, Utilities, and Where to Search)
Top action: Use the SDHDA Rental Housing Search to find income‑restricted apartments statewide. SD Housing Development Authority’s page explains how income‑based housing works and what documents you’ll need. Start at SDHDA “Income‑Based Apartments” guide and use Find Your Space (rentals). Call to confirm current wait times. (info.sdhda.org)
If you fell behind from a crisis, 211 can list local rental funds and legal clinics. SDHDA’s COVID‑era SD CARES is no longer active for new applicants, so look to county HHS, churches, and legal aid for negotiation help. See SDHDA info page on ERAP (historical) and Helpline Center 211. (info.sdhda.org)
First‑time homebuyers and returning buyers can explore SDHDA loans and free homebuyer classes through HERO partners; those classes help you qualify and avoid costly mistakes. Start with SDHDA HERO education and read SDHDA’s FHA primer at SDHDA FHA overview. (info.sdhda.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you get an eviction notice, call East River Legal Services (eastern SD) or Dakota Plains Legal Services (rest of SD and Tribal areas) right away. Use SD UJS “Get Legal Help” (central intake) to route your application to ERLS/DPLS and ask 211 for emergency shelter options near you. (ujs.sd.gov)
Legal Help That Understands Family Realities
Top action: Apply through SD Law Help’s central intake so your case is routed to East River Legal Services or Dakota Plains Legal Services. Use SD UJS “Get Legal Help”; ERLS eviction hotline hours and contacts are listed here: ERLS Eviction Prevention Hotline and via 211’s listing. (ujs.sd.gov)
Dakota Plains Legal Services has eight offices including Rapid City, Pine Ridge, Mission, and Eagle Butte; they cover many Tribal communities and offer mobile outreach like the Justice Bus. Find your office at DPLS contact page and see DPLS home for areas served. (dpls.org)
For court forms and general guidance, the Unified Judicial System hosts a legal forms help line and online resources. Use SD UJS Self‑Help and keep every notice you receive; deadlines are short. Call to confirm current clinic dates, as they vary by county. (ujs.sd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If ERLS or DPLS can’t take the case, ask for advice letters and pro se guides, and contact the Access to Justice program for reduced‑fee referrals via SD UJS “Get Legal Help”. Also request help from your local library’s reference desk to print, scan, and file forms—Rapid City Public Library “Book a Librarian” is an example of one‑on‑one help. (ujs.sd.gov)
Safety, Crisis Care, and Mental Health
Top action: Call 988 for mental health crises or 911 for immediate danger. The Helpline Center answers 988 in South Dakota and can connect you to local care. Learn the difference between 988, 211, and 911 at Helpline Center 988 and Helpline Center home. (helplinecenter.org)
If you’re escaping abuse, use a local shelter today. In Sioux Falls, call 1-605-338-4880 for Children’s Home Shelter for Family Safety; they offer 24/7 shelter and help with protection orders. In Rapid City, WAVI’s toll‑free crisis line is 1-888-716-9284. Find hotlines and shelters statewide at SD Network Against Family Violence & Sexual Assault. (chssd.org)
For privacy, ask shelters about phones programmed to dial 911 and 211, and plan your digital safety (change passwords, enable MFA). The Sioux Falls shelter confirms no cost to stay and offers crisis intervention 24/7; see Shelter services overview. (chssd.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If shelters are full, ask for diversion help, motel vouchers, or help relocating. Call 211 to locate overflow options and legal help for emergency protection orders, and contact SD UJS Self‑Help for forms if you cannot find counsel. (helplinecenter.org)
Program Quick‑Look Table (Eligibility, How to Apply, Timelines)
| Program | Who qualifies (examples) | Apply/how to apply | Typical timeline | 
|---|---|---|---|
| SNAP (food) | Income within DSS limits; resources reviewed; expedited if very low income | Online or local office via DSS SNAP | Standard up to 30 days; expedited can be within 7 days (ask local office) (dss.sd.gov) | 
| WIC | Pregnant, postpartum, infants/children under 5; income ≤ 185% FPL (2025) | Apply online and schedule at SD WIC | First appointment typically 1–2 weeks; ask for sooner if formula is urgent (doh.sd.gov) | 
| Medicaid | Low/moderate income adults, kids, pregnant people; expansion in effect | Start at South Dakota Medicaid; questions 1-800-597-1603 | 10–45 days depending on category; emergency coverage possible in some cases (dss.sd.gov) | 
| Child Care Assistance | Working or in training; income up to 209% FPL (3/1/2025 chart) | DSS Child Care Assistance; call 1‑800‑227‑3020 | Approval can take 10–15 business days; ask about backdating from application date (dss.sd.gov) | 
| LIEAP (heat) | Responsible for heat bill; within posted income limits | DSS Energy Assistance | Varies; apply early fall; crisis situations may be faster—call DSS (dss.sd.gov) | 
| TANF (cash) | Parent with minor child; meet financial need; work plan required | DSS TANF; start with Employment Specialist | Interviews set quickly; payments start after eligibility set; lifetime cap 60 months (dss.sd.gov) | 
| Lifeline (internet/phone) | Income or qualifying benefits; one per household | FCC Lifeline; then pick a carrier | Same‑day to 1–3 weeks depending on carrier activation (fcc.gov) | 
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting an empty application: Upload one proof even if your printer is broken. DSS lets you add documents later. Use DSS contact page for program lines and ask how to submit via phone photo or fax. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Ignoring shutoff notices: Winter does not guarantee protection. Investor‑owned utilities can disconnect with extended notice. Call early and use PUC Consumer Assistance to negotiate. (puc.sd.gov)
 - Relying on ACP info online: ACP ended. Apply for Lifeline and check low‑cost plans instead. See FCC ACP status and FCC Lifeline. (fcc.gov)
 
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- Food: DSS SNAP; Feeding SD Mobile Food Distribution. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Health: South Dakota Medicaid; WIC apply info. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Child care: Child Care Assistance (income chart); Child Care Helpline via 211. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Internet: FCC Lifeline; Midco Lifeline page. (fcc.gov)
 - Shutoffs: PUC Consumer Info; LIEAP DSS Energy Assistance. (puc.sd.gov)
 
Application Checklist (print or screenshot)
- Photo ID: State ID/driver’s license, Tribal ID, or school ID. If none, ask DSS about alternatives at DSS Contact. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Proof of address: Lease, letter from landlord, or current mail; libraries can help scan—try Rapid City Public Library help. (rapidcitylibrary.org)
 - Proof of income: Last 30 days’ pay stubs, child support, unemployment, or a letter stating zero income. See SNAP verification notes. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Bills: Utility bills, disconnect notice, or landlord ledger for rent help; see PUC Consumer Assistance for utility disputes. (puc.sd.gov)
 - Child documents: Birth certificates, school letters, WIC card; WIC info at SD WIC. (doh.sd.gov)
 
Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support
Use 211’s directory to filter by county for rent, utilities, counseling, and car repair programs. Search at Helpline Center 211, and for food, use Feeding South Dakota Find Food. Keep a list of two backups per need. (helplinecenter.org)
- Sioux Falls: Children’s Home Shelter for Family Safety (1-605-338-4880) helps with safety planning and orders; Siouxland Libraries tech help can help you fill forms online. (chssd.org)
 - Rapid City / Black Hills: WAVI (1-888-716-9284) offers 24/7 shelter and advocacy; Rapid City Public Library provides scanning and tech help. (wavi.org)
 - Statewide legal aid: East River Legal Services and Dakota Plains Legal Services handle housing, family, and benefits cases for eligible clients; start intake at SD UJS Legal Help. (erlservices.org)
 
Diverse Communities — Tailored Help and Access Notes
LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask legal aid about name/gender marker updates, custody, and safety planning. East River Legal Services prioritizes vulnerable clients including LGBTQIA+, and the Helpline Center will filter counseling and support groups that are affirming. Ask agencies for privacy safeguards and digital safety plans. (erlservices.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Request accommodations such as large‑print forms and extra appointment time. The PUC lists 711 relay; Midco details relay services for calls. For Medicaid transport, use NEMT (1‑866‑403‑1433), and ask libraries about screen readers and accessibility. See Midco Relay Services and SD Medicaid phone list. (midco.com)
Veteran single mothers: Contact your County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) for VA claims, housing, and education benefits; the state lists every CVSO and TVSO by county and reservation. Start at SD Dept. of Veterans Affairs — locate your VSO or call 1-877-579-0015 for help. Ask about free rural transportation listed by SDDVA. See SDDVA free highly rural transportation. (vetaffairs.sd.gov)
Immigrant/refugee single moms: Ask 211 for trusted ESL classes, immigration referrals, and trauma counseling. Combined legal and social supports are available through statewide networks via Helpline Center 211, and libraries can help with citizenship test prep through the SD State Library eResources. Request an interpreter in advance. (helplinecenter.org)
Tribal‑specific resources: The Department of Tribal Relations lists tribal contacts and FAQs for IDs, enrollment, and services. Use the Tribal Contact Lookup and tribe pages such as Rosebud Sioux Tribe contact. For public safety updates, monitor tribal announcements and local news. See DTR home. (sdtribalrelations.sd.gov)
Rural single moms: Ask DLR for virtual appointments; free Wi‑Fi is available at Job Service and libraries. ConnectSD grants continue expanding fiber statewide through the Governor’s Office of Economic Development; read updates and BEAD planning details at ConnectSD (GOED) and BEAD in South Dakota. Use Lifeline and hotspots until fiber reaches your road. (sdgoed.com)
Single fathers: All programs here are gender‑neutral unless the program name says otherwise. Apply for SNAP, Medicaid, child care assistance, and TANF if eligible. For legal help on custody and support, use SD UJS Legal Help and ask 211 for parenting groups in your county. (ujs.sd.gov)
Language access: Ask for interpreters at DSS and DLR when scheduling; if forms are hard to read, request large‑print or reading assistance. Libraries and the Helpline Center can help you find translation options; start at Helpline Center contact and SD State Library eCard help. TTY users can dial 711 relay for calls. (helplinecenter.org)
Resources by Region (Examples You Can Call Today)
| Region | Key resources | Notes | 
|---|---|---|
| Sioux Falls / Minnehaha–Lincoln | Children’s Home Shelter for Family Safety (1-605-338-4880); Siouxland Libraries tech help | Ask for safety planning, court advocacy, and device privacy help at the shelter; libraries help with scanning and job apps. (chssd.org) | 
| Rapid City / Black Hills | WAVI (1-888-716-9284); Rapid City Public Library “Book a Librarian” | WAVI offers 24/7 crisis lines & shelter; RCPL has makerspace and digitization events—good for resumes. (wavi.org) | 
| Aberdeen–Watertown–Brookings | ERLS (Eastern SD); DLR Job Service for virtual workshops | ERLS handles housing/family; DLR provides online training and resume help. (erlservices.org) | 
| Pierre–Mobridge–Central | SDHDA rental search; PUC Consumer Assistance | Check vouchers and income‑restricted units; PUC can mediate utility issues. (info.sdhda.org) | 
| Tribal Nations (statewide) | Dept. of Tribal Relations — contacts; DPLS | Use TVSO lists for veterans; DPLS covers civil cases across many Tribal jurisdictions. (sdtribalrelations.sd.gov) | 
Reality Check — Delays, Waitlists, and How to Work Around Them
- SNAP & Medicaid: When caseloads surge, 30‑day decisions can stretch. Upload what you have now and certify that more proof is coming. Keep your case number handy and use DSS SNAP and Medicaid phone list to follow up weekly. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Internet discounts: ACP is gone; Lifeline is the baseline discount. Providers have different equipment fees. Check “broadband labels” for current pricing where available; Midco posts labels and price lock info at Midco Broadband Labels and Midco Internet. (midco.com)
 - Winter shutoffs: PUC rules protect certain days but not all winter disconnections. Don’t wait—call your utility and the PUC, and apply for LIEAP now at DSS Energy Assistance. (puc.sd.gov)
 
County‑by‑County variations you may notice
- DSS office hours and appointment availability: Use Find Your Local DSS Office for direct lines; some offices can scan your documents at the front desk. If you live near a reservation, TANF and work services may start in the DSS office or at a DLR Job Service site—staff will direct you. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Utilities: Cooperatives and municipals may have different shutoff rules from investor‑owned utilities. The PUC regulates IOUs and posts complaint steps at PUC Consumer Complaints. Ask your provider to pause disconnection while you work with PUC. (puc.sd.gov)
 - Legal clinics: ERLS/DPLS travel schedules shift with funding and staff. Use the SD UJS intake portal first, then call your assigned office to ask about clinic dates. (ujs.sd.gov)
 
Step‑by‑Step: Apply for Child Care Assistance
- Gather: Pay stubs, school schedule, and provider information. Use the 209% FPL chart (effective 3/1/2025) at DSS Child Care Assistance. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Apply: Call 1-800-227-3020 or submit the application kit; ask about backdating to your application date. Program details. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Choose: Use the Child Care Helpline’s database or 211 (type of care, hours, openings) at Helpline Child Care Resources. (helplinecenter.org)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask DLR about TANF‑Work or WIOA childcare during training, and request a temporary increase to work hours to keep your spot. See TANF Work supports and DLR Workforce Online. (dss.sd.gov)
Low‑Cost Skills You Can Learn from Home (Free or Almost Free)
- Start library tutorials: The state library’s Niche Academy and database tutorials are free with an eCard and often don’t need a card if you’re in SD (GeoIP). See SDSL eResources & training and SDSL eCard details. (library.sd.gov)
 - Use DLR’s online tools: Big Interview for mock interviews and resume templates; Google Career Certificates for entry‑level IT, support, and data analytics. Check Workforce Services Online and DLR Job Service offices. (dlr.sd.gov)
 
Table: What Documents You’ll Usually Need (and where to get them)
| Document | Why needed | Where to get help now | 
|---|---|---|
| ID (photo or Tribal) | Verify identity for benefits and appeals | DSS Contact can suggest alternatives; library staff can scan. (dss.sd.gov) | 
| Proof of address | Verify residency for SNAP/WIC/Medicaid | DSS SNAP page lists typical proofs; libraries help scan. (dss.sd.gov) | 
| Pay stubs/zero income statement | Set benefit levels; expedited SNAP | DSS SNAP and caseworker can advise on acceptable proofs. (dss.sd.gov) | 
| Utility bill/disconnect notice | Prioritize energy crisis help | PUC Consumer Assistance and DSS LIEAP. (puc.sd.gov) | 
Table: Realistic Timelines and What to Expect
| Task | Typical timeframe | Tips | 
|---|---|---|
| SNAP decision | Up to 30 days; expedited 7 days | Apply online, upload any proof you have; call weekly; see DSS SNAP. (dss.sd.gov) | 
| LIEAP payment | 2–6 weeks, faster in crisis | Ask utility to note “LIEAP pending”; see DSS Energy Assistance. (dss.sd.gov) | 
| Child Care Assistance approval | 10–15 business days | Request backdating; see DSS Child Care Assistance. (dss.sd.gov) | 
| Legal aid response | 1–10 days | Apply via SD UJS intake and mark urgent deadlines. (ujs.sd.gov) | 
If Your Application Gets Denied (Troubleshooting)
- Read the denial: Look for the reason and the appeal deadline. For DSS programs, instructions to request a fair hearing are posted here: DSS Fair Hearing. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Fix the proof gap: Ask your worker exactly what is missing and how to submit it. Use Find Your Local DSS Office to email documents securely if you can’t upload. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Get help: Call legal aid for advice letters or representation. Use SD UJS Legal Help to reach ERLS/DPLS; attach your denial to your intake. (ujs.sd.gov)
 
FAQs (South Dakota‑specific)
- How do I get internet if ACP is gone?
Use Lifeline for a monthly discount and choose a carrier that accepts it. Start with FCC Lifeline, then call providers like Midco Lifeline for activation. Confirm total price with modem fees included. (fcc.gov) - Can my power or heat be shut off in winter?
Yes, investor‑owned utilities can disconnect with extended notice. There are no‑disconnect holidays. Call your utility, apply for LIEAP, and call PUC Consumer Assistance at 1‑800‑332‑1782. (dss.sd.gov) - What if I lost my EBT card or see strange charges?
Call 1‑800‑604‑5099 immediately and report fraud; set alerts with the ebtEDGE app. See South Dakota EBT for instructions. (dss.sd.gov) - How fast can I get SNAP?
If you have very little income or cash on hand, ask about expedited processing (as fast as seven days). Start and upload what you can via DSS SNAP. (dss.sd.gov) - Where can I learn basic computer skills for free?
Try Siouxland Libraries classes or “Book a Librarian” at Rapid City Public Library. The SD State Library eCard opens many tutorials. (siouxlandlib.org) - Does South Dakota still have rent help like COVID?
The SD CARES rental program is not taking new applications. Use SDHDA rental search, ask county human services, and call 211. See historical info at SDHDA ERAP page. (info.sdhda.org) - How do I get child care covered while I work or train?
Apply for Child Care Assistance. If you’re in TANF Work or a DLR program, ask about childcare subsidies during training—start at TANF Work supports. (dss.sd.gov) - I’m a veteran—who helps me locally?
Your CVSO or TVSO can file claims and connect you to benefits. Find them here: Locate your VSO or call 1‑877‑579‑0015. (vetaffairs.sd.gov) - Are there statewide hotlines for abuse or sexual assault?
Yes. Call 1‑800‑430‑7233 (state DV hotline) and use SD Network Against Family Violence & Sexual Assault to find a shelter near you. Sioux Falls: 1‑605‑338‑4880. (sdnafvsa.com) - Who can help if I can’t reach a person at an agency?
Call 211 for a live navigator, use DSS contact directory for program‑specific lines (SNAP 1‑877‑999‑5612), and ask your library for computer access and scanning. (helplinecenter.org) 
Spanish summary (resumen en español)
Este resumen fue traducido con herramientas de IA. Verifique toda la información con las fuentes oficiales antes de aplicar.
- Comida y beneficios: Solicite SNAP en DSS SNAP y WIC en WIC de Dakota del Sur. Llame 1‑877‑999‑5612 (SNAP). (dss.sd.gov)
 - Salud: Aplique para Medicaid en South Dakota Medicaid y pida transporte NEMT (1‑866‑403‑1433) si lo necesita. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Internet económico: ACP terminó; use Lifeline en FCC Lifeline y pregunte a proveedores locales como Midco. (fcc.gov)
 - Apoyo inmediato: Llame al 211 o envíe su código postal al 898211. Para violencia doméstica, llame 1‑800‑430‑7233 o SD Network Against Family Violence. (helplinecenter.org)
 
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- South Dakota Department of Social Services
 - South Dakota Department of Health (WIC and maternal health updates)
 - South Dakota Public Utilities Commission
 - South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation
 - South Dakota Housing Development Authority
 - Helpline Center 211
 - South Dakota Department of Tribal Relations
 - East River Legal Services and Dakota Plains Legal Services
 - Feeding South Dakota
 - FCC Lifeline
 
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
This guide is for general information. Program rules change and local funding varies. Always contact agencies directly or check official websites to confirm current eligibility, amounts, and deadlines. Appeals and complaint processes have strict timelines—read your notices and act fast. If you are in danger, call 911. For mental health crises, call 988. For local referrals, call 211.
🏛️More South Dakota Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in South Dakota
- 📋 Assistance Programs
 - 💰 Benefits and Grants
 - 👨👩👧 Child Support
 - 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
 - ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
 - 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
 - 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
 - 🎓 Education Grants
 - 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
 - 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
 - 🔧 Job Training
 - ⚖️ Legal Help
 - 🧠 Mental Health Resources
 - 🚗 Transportation Assistance
 - 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
 - ⚡ Utility Assistance
 - 🥛 WIC Benefits
 - 🏦 TANF Assistance
 - 🏠 Housing Assistance
 - 👶 Childcare Assistance
 - 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
 - 🚨 Emergency Assistance
 - 🤝 Community Support
 - 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
 - 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
 - 🏫 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
 - 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
 - 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
 
