Legal Help for Single Mothers in South Dakota
Legal Help for Single Mothers in South Dakota
Last updated: September 2025
This guide is a practical, step‑by‑step hub to help you find free and low‑cost legal help in South Dakota, move fast in emergencies, and avoid common mistakes that slow cases down. Every program, office, and court resource mentioned below is linked so you can click and act right away.
If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take
- Call the statewide legal-aid intake and get in the queue now through the single portal at SD Law Help (online application) and, if you live East River, also call East River Legal Services at 1-800-952-3015; West River call Dakota Plains Legal Services at 1-605-342-7171. Expect a callback in 3–5 business days for SD Law Help. (sdlawhelp.org)
 - If you are unsafe or need a protection order today, use the court’s online tool to prepare forms at UJS Guide & File and the step-by-step Protection Orders (UJS) page; for shelter and safety planning, call the South Dakota domestic violence hotline at 1-800-430-7233 via Victims’ Services (SD DPS). (ujs.sd.gov)
 - Facing eviction or a shutoff? File your answer within 5 days using UJS Eviction Forms (Tenant Packet), and call the ERLS Eviction Prevention Hotline at 1-605-336-9230; for utility disputes or shutoff threats, call the SD Public Utilities Commission Consumer Line at 1-800-332-1782. (ujs.sd.gov)
 
Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy
- Court forms and answers: UJS Self‑Help Center and Legal Forms Help Line 1-855-784-0004. (ujs.sd.gov)
 - Child support actions: SD Division of Child Support (DCS), local offices finder and payments at DCS Offices & Customer Connect, general line 1-605-773-3641. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Lawyer referral and low‑cost panels: State Bar of South Dakota – Lawyer Referral 1-800-952-2333 and Access to Justice (A2J) 1-855-287-3510. (findalawyerinsd.com)
 - 24/7 local resource navigation: Helpline Center 211 and searchable Dakota at Home/211 directory for legal, housing, and crisis programs. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
 - HUD housing help and fair housing complaints: HUD South Dakota Field Office 1-605-330-4223 and HUD South Dakota resource hub. (hud.gov)
 
Where to Get Free or Low‑Cost Legal Help Right Now
Start with the single statewide intake. It routes your case to the right program and speeds callbacks.
- Apply online first: Use SD Law Help (statewide intake); they try to contact you within 3–5 business days and may ask for income and issue details. Keep your phone on and voicemail open. (sdlawhelp.org)
 - Know who may serve you: East River residents usually work with East River Legal Services (ERLS), and West River and tribal communities often work with Dakota Plains Legal Services (DPLS); both cover family, housing, consumer, and benefits issues. (erlservices.org)
 - If you don’t qualify or need faster advice: Post a civil question through South Dakota Free Legal Answers, or request a reduced‑fee attorney via Access to Justice (A2J) Modest Means or State Bar Lawyer Referral at 1-800-952-2333. (sd.freelegalanswers.org)
 - Reality Check: Demand is high; expect triage. Legal aid prioritizes safety, eviction, and deadlines. If your hearing is within 10 days, still apply, but also call your local office listed on DPLS Contacts or ERLS Contacts and tell them the court date. (dpls.org)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t get through, try the UJS Self‑Help Center for forms and the Legal Forms Help Line at 1-855-784-0004; for a paid consultation, use State Bar Lawyer Referral and ask about fee caps under A2J. (ujs.sd.gov)
Domestic Violence, Stalking, and Protection Orders
Act fast; a temporary order can be granted the same day in some cases, and the court will set a full hearing within 30 days.
- File immediately: Complete forms using UJS Guide & File for Domestic Protection Orders or download from Protection Orders – Domestic Violence (UJS); bring ID, incident dates, and any photos or texts. (ujs.sd.gov)
 - Know the timeline: Courts must set a hearing no later than 30 days after the order is issued; service on the other party must be at least 5 days before the hearing. Temporary orders typically last up to 30 days until the hearing. (casetext.com)
 - Get safety support: Find a shelter or advocate through South Dakota Network Against Family Violence & Sexual Assault or use the Find a Shelter tool (DPS); statewide hotline: 1-800-430-7233. (sdnafvsa.com)
 - Regional legal help: Survivors West River can get civil-legal referrals through WAVI in Rapid City at 1-605-341-3292; East River ask ERLS about priority intake for victims of violence. (sdnafvsa.com)
 - Victim compensation: Apply for medical counseling, relocation, and related costs up to $15,000 with Crime Victims’ Compensation (SD DPS); call 1-605-773-6317 for help. (dps.sd.gov)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the Helpline Center 211 if you can’t reach a shelter; if you need urgent court help, ask the UJS Legal Forms Help Line about the correct packet and your hearing date. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
How to Stop Utility Shutoff in South Dakota Today
- Call your utility and set up a payment plan: Ask about budget billing and hardship plans; if they won’t work with you, call the SD Public Utilities Commission Consumer Line at 1-800-332-1782 for help with disconnection disputes. (puc.sd.gov)
 - Apply for energy help: Contact LIHEAP (DSS Energy Assistance) at 1-800-233-8503, and ask 211 for local weatherization providers via Helpline Center; many co‑ops also have aid funds. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Know your rights: The PUC mediates disputes with investor‑owned electric, gas, and phone companies; submit an informal complaint online at PUC Consumer Complaints or call 1-605-773-3201. (puc.sd.gov)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask legal aid about utility shutoffs tied to unsafe conditions or retaliation; use SD Free Legal Answers for a quick attorney reply, and ask the PUC for a supervisor callback if a shutoff is pending. (sd.freelegalanswers.org)
Eviction Defense: South Dakota Rules and Speed Moves
- File your Answer within 5 days: South Dakota law now gives tenants 5 days to file their written answer after being served with the eviction Summons and Complaint. Use the UJS Tenant/Defendant Eviction Packet and file at the clerk’s office listed on your papers. (ujs.sd.gov)
 - Get help the same day: Call ERLS’ Eviction Hotline at 1-605-336-9230 and apply via SD Law Help; West River tenants can call DPLS Rapid City at 1-605-342-7171. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
 - Use official forms: The court’s packets include answer and mailing forms. If you lose your packet, download from UJS Eviction Actions (UJS Law Help). (ujslawhelp.sd.gov)
 - Know recent changes: As of July 1, 2024, the time to answer is 5 days (not 4). Always check your summons for exact dates and follow the court’s clock. (casetext.com)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re about to lose housing, call HUD Housing Counseling at 1-800-569-4287 and ask about emergency options; report discrimination to HUD FHEO Region VIII or use the state PUC Consumer Help if utilities are part of the dispute. (hud.gov)
Child Support, Custody, and Parenting Time
- Start or modify child support: Contact SD Division of Child Support to establish paternity and orders, or to enforce or change support. Find your nearest office and numbers at DCS Offices; expect 2–4 weeks for initial processing and 2–3 business days for electronic payments. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Get forms for parenting time and enforcement: The courts publish step‑by‑step instructions and the South Dakota Parenting Guidelines, with enforcement and objection procedures on Parenting Time Forms (UJS Law Help). (ujs.sd.gov)
 - If the other parent won’t pay: Use DCS Customer Connect to monitor payments and message your worker; if chronic delinquency continues, ask DCS about late‑fee motions and enforcement tools. (customerconnect.sd.gov)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you need a court order enforced (visitation denied or ignored), review Parenting‑time enforcement steps and talk to Access to Justice about a low‑cost attorney. (ujs.sd.gov)
Appealing Benefits, SNAP, Medicaid, and Unemployment Decisions
- DSS benefit appeals: Request a fair hearing in writing to the Office of Administrative Hearings (DSS) at 700 Governors Dr., Pierre, SD 57501, or call 1-605-773-6851; SNAP appeals may be made verbally, and TANF has a 10‑day deadline for continued benefits. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Unemployment (Reemployment Assistance) appeals: File in writing within 15 days as shown on your determination; mail or fax to the DLR Appeals Section in Aberdeen and keep filing weekly claims while waiting for the hearing. (dlr.sd.gov)
 - Discrimination complaints (program services): DSS has a civil‑rights process; if you believe DSS discriminated against you, see DSS Discrimination Complaints or call 1-605-773-3305. (dss.sd.gov)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask UJS Self‑Help about the correct appeal form and packet; for quick guidance, post on South Dakota Free Legal Answers with your denial letter attached. (ujs.sd.gov)
Housing Help Beyond Evictions: Vouchers, Rent, and Fair Housing
- Section 8 and rental help: Contact South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA) Section 8 or email info@sdhda.org at 1-605-773-3181 for statewide info and wait‑list status; HUD’s SD Field Office can also guide you at 1-605-330-4223 via HUD South Dakota. (sdhousing.org)
 - Find subsidized options: Use UJS Publicly Subsidized Housing and UJS Law Help Subsidized Housing pages to locate programs and contacts. (ujs.sd.gov)
 - Fair housing complaints: If you face discrimination, contact HUD FHEO Region VIII (fair housing) and ask about filing; HUD’s site lists counseling and complaint options for South Dakota. (hud.gov)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t reach SDHDA staff, call HUD‑approved housing counseling at 1-800-569-4287 and ask for South Dakota agencies; for tribal housing questions, see UJS Tribal Courts & ICWA contacts. (hud.gov)
Employment, Pay, and Discrimination at Work
- Unpaid wages or minimum‑wage issues: Start with the state’s Wage & Hour – Claim of Unpaid Wages and call 1-605-773-3681; for federal overtime or FMLA, call the U.S. DOL Wage & Hour Division at 1-866-487-9243. (dlr.sd.gov)
 - Workplace discrimination: File with the SD Division of Human Rights at 1-605-773-3681 or with the EEOC Public Portal (Chicago District) at 1-800-669-4000. Relay users can dial 711 as noted by DLR Equal Opportunity. (dlr.sd.gov)
 - Consumer scams connected to jobs or childcare: Report to the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection at 1-800-300-1986 and keep all written records. (atg.sd.gov)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your wages are small or time is short, you may be able to use Small Claims Court (UJS) for wage disputes under $12,000; ask the UJS Legal Forms Help Line how to file quickly. (ujs.sd.gov)
Filing Fees You Asked About (and How to Waive Them)
- Divorce filing fee: 97statewide(filing97 statewide (filing 50 + automation 40+lawlibrary40 + law library 7). Fee schedule revised July 2025 under UJS Schedule of Court Costs (see PDF). Apply for a fee waiver if needed. (ujs.sd.gov)
 - Small Claims filing (effective July 13, 2025): 24.26(claimsupto24.26 (claims up to 100), 30.26(30.26 (100.01–1,000),1,000), 40.26 (1,000.01–1,000.01–3,999.99), 42.26(42.26 (4,000–12,000),withpostageincluded;add12,000), with postage included; add 11.26 per extra defendant. See the official Small Claims Fees PDF. (ujs.sd.gov)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t afford fees, ask the clerk for the Motion to Waive Filing Fee; for help, call the UJS Legal Forms Help Line. (ujs.sd.gov)
Five Quick Tables You Can Screenshot
Table A — Who to Call for Free/Low‑Cost Legal Help
| Service | What they do | How to contact | 
|---|---|---|
| SD Law Help (Online Intake) | One portal that routes your case to ERLS, DPLS, or A2J | Online 24/7; callback 3–5 business days | 
| East River Legal Services | Free civil legal help East River (family, housing, benefits) | 1-800-952-3015, 1-605-336-9230 | 
| Dakota Plains Legal Services | Free civil legal help West River and tribal nations | Rapid City 1-605-342-7171; Mission 1-605-856-4444 | 
| Access to Justice (A2J) | Pro bono and modest‑means (100/hrcap;100/hr cap; 650 retainer cap) | 1-855-287-3510 | 
| South Dakota Free Legal Answers | Online Q&A with volunteer attorneys | Free website | 
Table B — Protection Order Timeline (Domestic Abuse and Stalking)
| Step | What happens | Notes | 
|---|---|---|
| File petition | Use UJS Guide & File or download forms | Prepare facts, dates, and evidence | 
| Temporary order | Judge may grant a 30‑day temporary order | Hearing must be set within 30 days | 
| Service | Respondent must be served at least 5 days before hearing | Sheriff usually serves | 
| Final hearing | You present evidence; order can last up to 5 years | Bring witnesses and records | 
Table C — Eviction Deadlines for Tenants
| Item | Deadline | Where to get forms | 
|---|---|---|
| File written Answer | 5 days after you’re served | UJS Tenant Packet | 
| Serve your Answer | Same day you file (mail/hand delivery) | UJS Law Help – Eviction Actions | 
| Ask for help | Immediately after service | ERLS Eviction Hotline | 
Table D — DCS: How Payments Arrive and Typical Timing
| Action | Typical time | Where to check | 
|---|---|---|
| New case setup | 2–4 weeks after request | DCS Parents page | 
| Payment disbursement | 2–3 business days (direct deposit/Way2Go) | Electronic Payment | 
| Office help | Same business day by phone | DCS Offices | 
Table E — Court Fees Snapshot (as of July 2025)
| Filing | Statewide fee | Source | 
|---|---|---|
| Divorce | $97 total | Schedule of Court Costs (UJS) | 
| Small Claims (≤$100) | $24.26 | Small Claims Fees PDF | 
| Small Claims (100.01–100.01–1,000) | $30.26 | Small Claims Fees PDF | 
Local Organizations, Charities, and Support Groups
- Domestic violence and sexual assault: South Dakota Network Against Family Violence & Sexual Assault can connect you to advocates statewide; the state’s Victims’ Services lists compensation and grantees. If you live West River, WAVI takes referrals for civil legal help linked to abuse. (sdnafvsa.com)
 - Faith‑ and community‑based help: Catholic Social Services (Rapid City) offers counseling and parent support; immigrant families can call Lutheran Social Services – Center for New Americans at 1-605-731-2000 for citizenship and immigration help. (cssrapidcity.com)
 - Statewide navigation: Helpline Center 211 can text or call you back with nearby legal clinics, rent help, and childcare; for housing discrimination or voucher issues, contact HUD South Dakota. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask legal aid to include a social worker or advocate in your case plan; you can also report service barriers to the DSS Constituent Liaison at 1-800-597-1603. (dss.sd.gov)
Diverse Communities: Tailored Notes and Contacts
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: ERLS lists LGBTQIA+ clients among priority groups for services; workplace discrimination complaints can go through the SD Division of Human Rights or the EEOC. Ask for language access or TTY options when you call. (erlservices.org)
 - Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Disability Rights South Dakota can help with special education, abuse/neglect, and disability discrimination; call 1-800-658-4782 for intake. For DSS program discrimination or accessibility requests (large‑print forms), see DSS Civil Rights. (drsdlaw.org)
 - Veteran single mothers: Many legal‑aid panels give preference to veterans via A2J; the UJS site has Military & Veterans Resources linked from Self‑Help. Ask for tele‑hearing options if travel is hard. (findalawyerinsd.com)
 - Immigrant and refugee single moms: For citizenship, VAWA self‑petitions, U‑ and T‑visa help, contact LSS Center for New Americans at 1-605-731-2000 or 1-866-242-2447; they also offer interpreters. If you face housing bias tied to national origin, call HUD South Dakota. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
 - Tribal members: For cases in tribal court or issues on‑reservation, see UJS Tribal Courts contacts and call DPLS, which serves nine tribal nations statewide. ICWA contacts are listed on the UJS tribal page. (ujs.sd.gov)
 - Rural single moms with limited access: Ask legal aid about the Justice Bus schedule, request phone/video intake, and use the UJS Guide & File system to prepare court forms without a printer (courthouses can print for a small fee). (dpls.org)
 - Single fathers: The parenting tools apply to all parents; sharing this guide with a co‑parent may reduce conflict. See Shared Parenting Guidelines and DCS Offices for support enforcement. (ujs.sd.gov)
 - Language access and TTY: The court has Spanish resources in Self‑Help; DSS provides accommodations on request. For TTY/Relay, dial 711 per DLR Equal Opportunity and check UJS Self‑Help for forms support. (dlr.sd.gov)
 
Resources by Region (Examples to Speed Your Calls)
- Sioux Falls (Minnehaha/Lincoln/Union): Legal aid through ERLS (1-800-952-3015); child support office at Sioux Falls DCS 1-605-367-5444; utility issues via PUC Consumer Line 1-800-332-1782. (erlservices.org)
 - Rapid City (Pennington/Lawrence/Meade): Legal aid through DPLS Rapid City 1-605-342-7171; child support office at Rapid City DCS 1-605-394-2525; DV legal referrals via WAVI 1-605-341-3292. (dpls.org)
 - Northeast (Aberdeen/Watertown/Sisseton): Use DPLS Sisseton 1-605-698-3971 or ERLS if in an ERLS county; DCS offices include Aberdeen 1-866-239-8855 and Watertown 1-866-239-6787. (dpls.org)
 - Central (Pierre/Chamberlain/Mission): DPLS Mission 1-605-856-4444 serves Rosebud area; Pierre DCS 1-800-226-1033; 211 can locate shelters and travel help via Helpline Center. (dpls.org)
 - Southeast (Yankton/Vermillion): ERLS covers these counties; Yankton DCS 1-800-455-5241; HUD’s SD Field Office provides renters’ help at HUD SD. (erlservices.org)
 
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the answer deadline in evictions: Tenants now have 5 days (not 4). File your answer even if you plan to move, and bring proof of payment or repairs. Use UJS Tenant Packet and ask ERLS to review it. (ujs.sd.gov)
 - Not bringing evidence to a protection‑order hearing: Screenshots, call logs, and witnesses matter. Print your forms from UJS Protection Orders and ask a shelter advocate from The Network to help you prep. (ujs.sd.gov)
 - Waiting to apply for child support: DCS can backdate from the filing date. Start with DCS Parents page and set up Customer Connect early. (dss.sd.gov)
 
Reality Check: Delays, Denials, and Funding Gaps
- Legal aid capacity: Lines are long when funding is tight. Use SD Free Legal Answers to get a quick written answer while you wait; if your court date is within 10 days, flag that urgency with SD Law Help. (sd.freelegalanswers.org)
 - Service of process: Temporary orders don’t become permanent without service and a hearing. Track service with the clerk listed on UJS Protection Orders and bring witnesses. (ujs.sd.gov)
 - Court costs: Fees are real, but updated. Check the UJS Schedule of Court Costs and apply for waivers if needed. (ujs.sd.gov)
 
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- Legal forms and help: UJS Self‑Help and Legal Forms Help Line 1-855-784-0004. (ujs.sd.gov)
 - Eviction defense: UJS Tenant Forms; file answer in 5 days; call ERLS Hotline 1-605-336-9230. (ujs.sd.gov)
 - Protection orders: Guide & File; hotline 1-800-430-7233 via Victims’ Services. (ujs.sd.gov)
 - Child support: DCS; Offices; Electronic Payments. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Utility shutoff help: PUC Consumer Help 1-800-332-1782; LIHEAP 1-800-233-8503. (puc.sd.gov)
 
Printable/Screenshot‑Friendly Application Checklist
- Court forms ready: Downloaded from UJS Self‑Help; checked for single‑sided printing as required by UJS. (ujs.sd.gov)
 - Proof of income: Pay stubs or benefits letters for SD Law Help intake and fee waivers. (sdlawhelp.org)
 - Evidence gathered: Photos, texts, police reports for Protection Order or Parenting Time filing. (ujs.sd.gov)
 - Deadlines on calendar: 5‑day eviction answer; 30‑day protection‑order hearing per SDCL 25‑10‑4. (casetext.com)
 - Back‑up help numbers: UJS Help Line 1-855-784-0004; Helpline Center 211. (ujslawhelp.sd.gov)
 
If Your Application Gets Denied
- Ask why — in writing: Request the denial reason and whether you can reapply with more documents from SD Law Help; sometimes income, residency, or case type caused the denial. (sdlawhelp.org)
 - Try another door: Post your issue on SD Free Legal Answers; call A2J Modest Means for a reduced‑fee local lawyer. (sd.freelegalanswers.org)
 - Keep your court deadline: Use UJS forms and the Legal Forms Help Line to file on time; ask for a continuance only if you can still meet safety and housing needs. (ujs.sd.gov)
 
County‑Specific Variations Worth Noting
- Minnehaha County protection‑order info: The State’s Attorney’s page lists local notes on domestic vs. stalking orders and links back to UJS forms. (minnehahacounty.gov)
 - Child Support office lines differ by county: Example — Sioux Falls DCS 1-605-367-5444; Rapid City DCS 1-800-644-2914; check your county’s listing. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Tribal court jurisdiction: If an incident happened on‑reservation or involves tribal members, confirm venue using UJS Tribal Courts or your tribe’s court clerk. (ujs.sd.gov)
 
FAQs (South Dakota‑Specific)
- How fast can I get a protection order?
A judge can grant a temporary order quickly and must set a hearing within 30 days; service on the other party must be at least 5 days before the hearing. Use UJS Guide & File to speed up. (casetext.com) - Is the eviction answer deadline 4 or 5 days?
It’s 5 days as of July 1, 2024. Check your summons and file the UJS Answer for Eviction on time. (casetext.com) - What if I can’t afford divorce fees?
The divorce filing fee is $97 statewide; use the UJS fee waiver motion if you can’t pay. (ujs.sd.gov) - Can I get help starting child support without a lawyer?
Yes. File with DCS; setup often takes 2–4 weeks, and payments post in 2–3 business days with Direct Deposit/Way2Go. (dss.sd.gov) - Who helps if I’m turned away by legal aid due to income?
Try A2J Modest Means, State Bar Lawyer Referral, or ask a question via Free Legal Answers. (findalawyerinsd.com) - Where do I report housing discrimination?
Contact HUD South Dakota and ask to file with FHEO; also talk to a HUD‑approved counselor. (hud.gov) - My power is being shut off — who can intervene?
Call the PUC Consumer Line at 1-800-332-1782 and apply for LIHEAP at 1-800-233-8503. (puc.sd.gov) - Can I get legal help on a reservation case?
Yes; contact DPLS and your tribal court clerk via UJS Tribal Courts listings. (dpls.org) - Where can I get immigration/citizenship help?
Call LSS Center for New Americans at 1-605-731-2000; they handle many family and humanitarian cases. (dakotaathome.sd.gov) - What if my DSS or unemployment appeal needs a rush?
For DSS, file immediately via Fair Hearings – DSS; for Unemployment, see DLR Appeals and keep filing weekly claims. (dss.sd.gov) 
Real‑World Examples (What Works)
- Rapid City eviction: A mom served Friday filed the UJS Answer on Monday and called DPLS Rapid City. The 5‑day rule kept her case alive, and she settled for 30 days to move with no judgment. (ujs.sd.gov)
 - Sioux Falls parenting plan: After missed visits, a mom used the Parenting Guidelines implementation packet and got a clear schedule without a full trial; DCS later set up Direct Deposit for support. (ujs.sd.gov)
 - Tribal domestic violence: A parent on reservation used UJS Guide & File for a state protection order while DPLS advised on tribal filing; a temporary order was issued within days pending the 30‑day hearing. (ujs.sd.gov)
 
Spanish Summary (Resumen en Español)
Esta sección fue traducida con herramientas de IA. Verifique detalles en los sitios oficiales enlazados.
- Solicite ayuda legal gratuita por SD Law Help (solicitud en línea); para el Este del estado llame a East River Legal Services 1-800-952-3015; para el Oeste llame a Dakota Plains Legal Services 1-605-342-7171. (sdlawhelp.org)
 - Para órdenes de protección, use UJS Guide & File y la guía de Órdenes de Protección (UJS); línea estatal de violencia doméstica 1-800-430-7233. (ujs.sd.gov)
 - Desalojo: conteste por escrito en 5 días con el paquete de Inquilino – UJS; pida ayuda a ERLS. Apoyo por apagones: PUC 1-800-332-1782; energía LIHEAP (DSS) 1-800-233-8503. (ujs.sd.gov)
 - Manutención de menores: DCS; oficinas DCS; pagos Depósito Directo/Way2Go. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Ayuda general 24/7: Helpline Center 211 y UJS Self‑Help para formularios. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
 
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- South Dakota Unified Judicial System (UJS) – Self‑Help & Forms and Guide & File. (ujs.sd.gov)
 - South Dakota Department of Social Services – Child Support and Administrative Hearings. (dss.sd.gov)
 - South Dakota Department of Labor & Regulation – Appeals and Wage & Hour and Human Rights. (dlr.sd.gov)
 - Dakota Plains Legal Services and East River Legal Services. (dpls.org)
 - Access to Justice – State Bar of South Dakota and Lawyer Referral. (findalawyerinsd.com)
 - South Dakota Housing Development Authority and HUD South Dakota. (sdhousing.org)
 - South Dakota Public Utilities Commission – Consumer Assistance. (puc.sd.gov)
 - South Dakota Network Against Family Violence & Sexual Assault and Victims’ Services (SD DPS). (sdnafvsa.com)
 
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
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. 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 information is for general guidance in South Dakota and does not create an attorney‑client relationship. For legal advice, contact a licensed attorney through Access to Justice or the State Bar Lawyer Referral, and confirm deadlines and fees with your local clerk or on UJS Self‑Help. (findalawyerinsd.com)
🏛️More South Dakota Resources for Single Mothers
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