Job Loss Support & Unemployment Help for Single Mothers in South Dakota

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, no‑nonsense guide for South Dakota single moms who lost work or have been unemployed for a while. You’ll find exact steps, timelines, contacts, and backup plans. Keep your phone close—most items here can be started online or by phone today.

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• File for Reemployment Assistance (unemployment) now, even if you’re not sure you qualify, and start weekly requests this Sunday. Use the state’s 24/7 RA Benefits Portal and phone lines in the morning when wait times are shorter through the Claims Call Center at 605-626-3179. Read the official benefit amounts effective July 6, 2025 and note the one‑week waiting week rule before your first payment in the state’s RA guides. Start here with [RA Benefits Portal], [File a Claim], and [Benefit Amounts]. (dlr.sd.gov)
• Stop a utility shutoff today by contacting your utility and invoking South Dakota’s 30‑day medical emergency protection if a doctor says disconnection would make a condition worse; then apply for LIHEAP crisis help on the same call. Call the state Energy Assistance line at 1-800-233-8503 and, if needed, the Public Utilities Commission Consumer Affairs at 1-800-332-1782 to file a complaint. Learn the 30‑day rule [PUC medical emergency rule], [Energy Crisis help (ECIP)], and [PUC Consumer Assistance contacts]. (regulations.justia.com)
• Get food on the calendar this week: apply for SNAP online, use Feeding South Dakota’s Mobile Food Distribution map for same‑week groceries, and enroll in WIC if pregnant or have kids under five. Apply for [SNAP online], find a [Mobile Food Distribution near you], and contact [South Dakota WIC] for appointments statewide. (dss.sd.gov)

Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 at Your Fingertips

• South Dakota RA Customer Service: 605-626-2452; Claims Call Center: 605-626-3179; Weekly request IVR: 605-626-3212; filing and status via the [RA Benefits page] and [File a Weekly Request]. (dlr.sd.gov)
• Helpline Center 211: call 211, text your ZIP to 898211, or email help@helplinecenter.org for local rent, utility, and shelter slots; see locations at the [Helpline Center contact page]. (helplinecenter.org)
• LIHEAP crisis/Energy Assistance: 1-800-233-8503; email DSSHeat@state.sd.us; learn ECIP criteria and after‑hours messages at the [Energy & Weatherization Assistance page]. (dss.sd.gov)
• SNAP/EBT: statewide DSS SNAP line 1-877-999-5612; EBT Customer Service 1-800-604-5099; program info at [SNAP overview] and [USDA SD SNAP directory]. (dss.sd.gov)
• Sioux Falls transit to interviews: book citywide SAM On Demand by app or phone 605-460-6256; see fares/passes and how‑to at [SAM On Demand] and [SAM fares]. (siouxareametro.info)

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How to Get Unemployment (Reemployment Assistance) Moving Fast

South Dakota calls unemployment “Reemployment Assistance (RA).” File immediately; waiting can cost you weeks of pay. Initial claims are online 24/7 and by phone weekdays; the state uses a non‑paid waiting week and will not pay that week. Use the [RA Benefits Portal] to file today, skim the RA FAQ on timing, and note that “the first eligible weekly request” is the waiting week in the [weekly request guide]. (dlr.sd.gov)

Benefits changed July 6, 2025: the weekly benefit amount ranges $28–$553, based on 1/26 of your high‑quarter wages (capped at 50% of the state average weekly wage). The maximum payable is up to 26 weeks in your benefit year. Check [2025 benefit amounts], and see the state’s calculation method from the Labor Market Information Center so your estimate is realistic in [LMI WBA method]. What to do if this doesn’t work: if your Monetary Determination looks off, call Customer Service at 605-626-2452 and request a wage investigation; appeal within 15 days if needed using the [RA Appeals page]. (dlr.sd.gov)

You must file a weekly request for payment every week, Sunday–Saturday, within seven days after the week ends or you risk denial. Expect the first payment about three weeks after applying if no issues stop it. Set a calendar reminder using [File Weekly Request], and save your confirmation each week per the [state instructions]. What to do if this doesn’t work: if the portal glitches, file by phone (605-626-3212) and keep screenshots; if you miss the seven‑day window, submit a backdate/late payment form from the [RA Forms page]. (dlr.sd.gov)

You must do work search unless the state exempts you (for example, short‑term recall). Most claimants must complete at least two job contacts each week and log them for audits. Follow the [Work Search Requirements] and register in [SDWORKS job bank]; if you’re recalled or union‑referred, call the number in your letter to confirm your status before you stop searching. What to do if this doesn’t work: if childcare or transportation makes job search hard, ask your Job Service office about approved activities and supportive services; find your nearest office at [Find a Job Service Office]. (dlr.sd.gov)

Partial benefits are available if you work under 40 hours and earn less than your WBA; South Dakota disregards the first $25, then deducts 75% of the rest from your weekly benefit. You become ineligible once your gross earnings reach your WBA or you work 40+ hours. Review the state’s [Work & Earnings rules] and see additional [Deductions from Benefits] that can reduce payment (like severance or vacation). What to do if this doesn’t work: if an employer reports different earnings than you reported, call 605-626-2452 to correct it before it turns into an overpayment; see prevention tips at [Accurate & Honest Reporting]. (dlr.sd.gov)

Choose your payment method early. South Dakota issues a Way2Go Debit Mastercard by default, or you can switch to direct deposit in the portal. Activate the card when it arrives to avoid delays and review the fee schedule. Set up banking via [Payment Methods (Way2Go & Direct Deposit)], and see Q&As in the [RA FAQ]. What to do if this doesn’t work: if your card is late or stolen, contact Way2Go at 1-844-893-3123 as listed on the state page; if you prefer paperless, call 605-626-2452 to enroll in direct deposit as noted in the [FAQ]. (dlr.sd.gov)

Quick RA Timelines & Rules (Save or screenshot)

Training, Short‑Term Credentials, and Support While You Job Hunt

Ask DLR about tuition help through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), which can fund high‑demand training on the approved Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL). You can explore programs and request services through your local Job Service office, and check how the ETPL is curated by the state. Start with [ETPL for Individuals], see [Training Opportunities (WIOA Title I)], and contact your [Job Service Office] for intake. What to do if this doesn’t work: if funds are tight or waitlists exist, ask about reciprocal ETPL agreements with neighboring states listed by DLR, then verify travel and childcare coverage before you enroll via [ETPL policy page]. (dlr.sd.gov)

DLR can also help with job search tools—resume builders, mock interviews, and virtual workshops you can access from home—plus statewide job matching in SDWORKS. Free public Wi‑Fi is available at all Job Service offices so you can upload documents and attend video interviews. Try [Workforce Services Online] and the [Job Search Tools hub], and if you can’t travel, ask for virtual services through the [local offices page]. What to do if this doesn’t work: if you need interview clothing, contact Dress for Success Sioux Falls (walk‑in Wednesdays, styling and coaching) now at the EmBe location using the [program page]. (dlr.sd.gov)

If training means short‑term income gaps, combine RA with food, childcare, and transit supports. Feeding South Dakota’s mobile distributions run monthly per site and do not require ID; SAM On Demand can reach job sites across Sioux Falls for $1.50 per ride; and rural transit can connect you from Watertown/Sisseton areas. Use the [Mobile Food Distribution map], check [SAM fares & passes], and call [Community Transit of Watertown/Sisseton] for pickup slots. What to do if this doesn’t work: if you live in Pierre or nearby counties, call River Cities Public Transit (24/7 scheduling, discounts apply) using [RCPT contact info]. (feedingsouthdakota.org)

Protecting Health Coverage After Job Loss

South Dakota expanded Medicaid on July 1, 2023 for adults ages 19–64 with income under 138% FPL; many unemployed single moms qualify the month income dips. Apply online or call DSS to get screened for Medicaid and SNAP at the same time. Read CMS’ expansion press release, see the state DSS Medicaid page for application flow via [DSS Medicaid portal], and review news context on expansion timelines via [Forbes coverage]. What to do if this doesn’t work: if you’re denied due to paperwork, ask for a fair hearing; DSS must issue a decision within set timeframes—see [Fair Hearings guidance] and keep copies of all uploads. (cms.gov)

If you’re pregnant or have a child under five, WIC provides nutrition checks, breastfeeding support, and referrals; income guidelines updated in 2025 make many families eligible during unemployment. Apply online or call your nearest WIC clinic using the Department of Health contacts. Check the [South Dakota WIC contact & locations] and see [2025 WIC income guidelines]; if you live on Rosebud, use the [Rosebud WIC office contacts] for local appointments. What to do if this doesn’t work: if you can’t reach WIC this week, use Feeding South Dakota’s map to bridge the gap from the [mobile food page]. (fns.usda.gov)

Child Care You Can Afford While Job Searching or Training

South Dakota Child Care Services can offset child care costs while parents work or attend school; the 2025 sliding fee scale goes up to 209% FPL, which helps unemployed moms starting short‑term training or newly hired into lower‑wage jobs. You can apply online or at any DSS office and call 1‑800-227-3020 for eligibility help. Review the [Child Care Assistance eligibility page] with March 1, 2025 limits, see [Child Care Services homepage], and confirm local help via [211 listing for CCS]. What to do if this doesn’t work: if you’re between jobs and can’t secure care, ask your Job Service office about short‑term supportive services under WIOA and use the [Find Child Care search] to compare openings and rates. (dss.sd.gov)

Child Care Snapshot (Print‑friendly)

Food, Cash, and Essentials While You Wait for Work

Apply for SNAP online in minutes; you can submit the application first and send documents later. New applicants get EBT availability dates in their approval notice; if approved ongoing, benefits load on the 10th monthly in South Dakota. Start at the [SNAP page with online application], see statewide contacts in [USDA’s SD entry], and keep the EBT support line handy from the [DSS EBT FAQs]. What to do if this doesn’t work: use Feeding South Dakota’s [Find Food map] to fill a gap this week and call 211 for a pantry near you. (dss.sd.gov)

TANF cash assistance is available to families with children where a parent is absent, incapacitated, or unemployed; TANF is paired with a required work component managed by DSS or your DLR office. Review [South Dakota TANF overview] and ask about the local TANF work track through your [Job Service Office] and DSS eligibility staff via the [DSS contact page]. What to do if this doesn’t work: if TANF isn’t a fit, ask your county human services about one‑time rent/utility help; in Minnehaha/Lincoln counties, most charities require you to see county human services first, then you can try [The Community Outreach rent/utility appointments] or [Salvation Army Sioux Falls assistance]. (dss.sd.gov)

Housing & Utilities When Money Is Tight

If you have a disconnection notice, call your utility today and ask about medical emergency postponements and payment plans. South Dakota Administrative Rules require a 30‑day postponement with a doctor’s certificate for a medical emergency. Know your rights in [Admin Rule 20:10:20:11], get crisis LIHEAP help at [DSS Energy & Weatherization], and contact [PUC Consumer Affairs] if the utility won’t work with you. What to do if this doesn’t work: file a PUC informal complaint online by the end of the business day and call 1-800-332-1782 to flag the urgent shutoff using the [PUC complaint form page]. (regulations.justia.com)

If you rent, reach out to local partners quickly—funding windows open and close fast. In Sioux Falls, The Community Outreach schedules rent/utility appointments each week, and the Salvation Army offers one‑time emergency aid with documents in hand. See appointment rules at [The Community Outreach] and document lists at the [Salvation Army Sioux Falls utility page]; ask county human services for a Notice of Action first, as some agencies require it per [Minnehaha County Human Services]. What to do if this doesn’t work: if you face homelessness, St. Francis House offers transitional housing and job help; learn intake hours on the [Helpline listing] and program details on [St. Francis House site]. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)

For immediate food and mail stability in Sioux Falls, The Banquet serves meals on a set schedule and can provide a temporary mailing address for people without housing. Check current meal times at [The Banquet meal times] and [211 listing for The Banquet]; this can help you receive EBT or RA notices while you stabilize housing. What to do if this doesn’t work: call 211 and ask for a list of shelters with family units for single mothers; in Rapid City, contact [Cornerstone Women & Children’s Home] about openings. (thebanquetsf.org)

How to Stop Utility Shutoff in South Dakota Today

• Ask your doctor or clinic for a one‑sentence medical certificate, then give it to the utility to trigger the 30‑day postponement while you set up payment arrangements. Details are in the medical emergency rule at the [PUC rule citation] and summarized in [SD Law Help utility rights] for quick reference. What to do if this doesn’t work: escalate to the PUC by phone and web form from the [PUC Consumer Assistance] page the same day. (regulations.justia.com)
• Apply for LIHEAP’s Energy Crisis Intervention Program if you have a shutoff notice, COD for fuel, or less than 20% in tank; you can email DSSHeat@state.sd.us a copy of the disconnect notice after hours. Use the instructions on [DSS Energy & Weatherization Assistance] and the [national LIHEAP profile for SD] to see income thresholds. What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your county human services for a one‑time utility pledge and bring proof of ECIP application; if denied, check [PUC consumer complaint]. (dss.sd.gov)
• If you have Xcel or Black Hills Energy, call their customer care lines to set up a payment plan and ask about any seasonal protections; confirm in writing by email or portal message. See Xcel’s scam warning & assistance notices and note phone support on [Xcel assistance pages]; if they refuse reasonable arrangements, contact [PUC Consumer Affairs]. What to do if this doesn’t work: ask a legal aid to call the utility with you; start with [East River Legal Services] or [State Bar Lawyer Referral]. (newsroom.xcelenergy.com)

Reality Check — What to Expect (and Plan Around)

• RA delays and identity checks: the state may verify wages or identity, adding weeks. Watch your portal messages and mail. Track status in the [RA Benefits Portal] and call Customer Service for unresolved holds using the [RA FAQ contacts]. What to do if this doesn’t work: keep filing weekly requests and appeal any denial within 15 days using the [Appeals page]. (dlr.sd.gov)
• Funding windows for rent help: many local programs are first‑come. The Community Outreach schedules weekly and requires phone appointments; some agencies require county Notices of Action first. Check [The Community Outreach schedule rules] and get county contact details via [Minnehaha County Human Services]. What to do if this doesn’t work: ask 211 to text you when new funds open at [Helpline Center contact]. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
• Childcare slots: urban centers fill up at semester starts. Use DSS’s licensed/registered provider search and call providers to confirm DSS billing. Search providers through [DSS Child Care Services] and confirm your co‑pay using the [eligibility scale]. What to do if this doesn’t work: ask Job Service if WIOA can cover short‑term care while in approved training from [Training Opportunities]. (dss.sd.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (Save/Print)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting your RA claim late and losing weeks. File today online, then file weekly every Sunday. Use the [RA Benefits Portal] and set a reminder using the [weekly filing rules]—the week ends Saturday; you have seven days to file. What to do if this doesn’t work: request a backdate using the PDF on the [RA Forms page] and call Customer Service. (dlr.sd.gov)
• Not documenting job contacts. Keep a paper or digital log and save emails/screenshots. Download the [Job Search Tracking Sheet] and review [Work Search Requirements] so audits don’t trip you up. What to do if this doesn’t work: if you missed entries, add them now and be honest during eligibility reviews. (dlr.sd.gov)
• Forgetting deductions. Report severance, vacation, or holiday pay; they reduce benefits dollar‑for‑dollar. Read the [Deductions from Benefits] section and call 605-626-2452 with questions per the [RA FAQ]. What to do if this doesn’t work: if overpaid, request a waiver if not your fault within 15 days per [Overpayments FAQ]. (dlr.sd.gov)
• Hoping for a last‑minute utility rescue without paperwork. Get the medical certificate and LIHEAP crisis application in the same day. Use the steps on [DSS Energy & Weatherization] and the [PUC medical rule] to buy time. What to do if this doesn’t work: escalate with the [PUC complaint form] by 4:30 p.m. (dss.sd.gov)

Application Checklist (Screenshot‑friendly)

• ID and SSNs for all household members; store photos in your phone; upload to [RA Benefits Portal] and to [SNAP online] when prompted. (dlr.sd.gov)
• Proof of income (last paystubs/severance); report in [RA weekly filing] and share with [Child Care Services] if applying for assistance. (dlr.sd.gov)
• Job search log (two or more contacts weekly); print the [Employer Contacts Form] and save emails/screenshots in a folder. (dlr.sd.gov)
• Utility docs (disconnect notice, medical note); email to LIHEAP per [Energy & Weatherization Assistance] and keep the [PUC Consumer Affairs] number ready. (dss.sd.gov)
• Childcare plan (provider quote, hours); apply using the [CCS eligibility page] and search providers via [DSS provider search]; ask about Way2Go or direct deposit if you’re a provider‑parent. (dss.sd.gov)

Diverse Communities — Targeted Help and Access Notes

LGBTQ+ single mothers: the Prism Community Center (The Transformation Project) in Sioux Falls offers peer groups, referrals, and safe‑space navigation; contact hours are posted and staff can point you to affirming employers. Connect through [Prism Community Center details], see [Transformation Project profile], and use [Sioux Falls Pride resources] for mental health and healthcare referrals. Accessibility note: ask for private rooms for safety during job coaching. (lgbtqcenters.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: South Dakota’s Division of Rehabilitation Services can fund training, job placement, assistive tech, and job site accommodations; they offer TTY and relay options. Start with [Rehabilitation Services] and request a referral through your [Job Service Office]; in Sioux Falls, SAM offers paratransit with a large‑print rider guide by phone from [SAM Paratransit]. Accessibility note: ask for large‑print forms or TTY via 711 for unemployment per the [RA “file by phone” page]. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)

Veteran single mothers: contact the VA Dakotas Regional Office for compensation and employment support and the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs for county veterans service officers; both can coordinate with DLR veterans programs. Call the [VA Dakotas Regional Office], reach [SDDVA contacts], and ask your Job Service office about priority of service via the [local offices map]. Accessibility note: bring DD‑214 to your Job Service appointment for faster enrollment. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)

Immigrant and refugee single moms: Lutheran Social Services provides employment services, English classes, and legal navigation; ask for job placement and resume help. See the [LSS refugee & immigrant services] and request 211 to connect you to local partners via [Helpline Center]; apply for SNAP/WIC regardless of immigration status if your kids are citizens per [SNAP overview]. Accessibility note: request an interpreter on RA and DSS calls (state provides language lines). (lsssd.org)

Tribal‑specific resources: coordinate with your Tribe’s human services and federal nutrition programs in parallel with state benefits; Oglala, Rosebud, and Cheyenne River administer WIC or FDPIR locally. Use contacts for [Oglala Sioux Tribe FDPIR], [Rosebud WIC office], and [Cheyenne River FDPIR]; Cheyenne River also lists LIHEAP program contacts online at [CRST LIHEAP]. Accessibility note: ask if Tribal TANF or employment programs can write support letters for your RA claim. (fns.usda.gov)

Rural single moms with limited access: call Community Transit of Watertown/Sisseton for rides to DSS, DLR, and interviews, and River Cities Public Transit for Pierre and surrounding areas; both accept advance reservations. Schedule rides through [CTWS main office], check [CTWS service listing], and contact [RCPT] for 24/7 scheduling. Accessibility note: ask for curb‑to‑curb assistance and confirm child seat policies before booking. (communitytransitws.com)

Single fathers: most programs here are gender‑neutral in eligibility; Dress for Success is female‑focused, but county human services, SNAP, RA, and training funds are open to you. Use [DSS contact] and [RA Benefits page]; talk with [Job Service Offices] about WIOA supports. Accessibility note: ask for inclusive family housing options via 211’s [Helpline Center]. (dss.sd.gov)

Language access: on state lines, say your language and wait for a translator; DSS and DLR offer interpreter services and TTY at 711/800‑877‑1113. See TTY numbers on [RA “file a claim” page], get WIC in multiple languages via [WIC contacts], and request Spanish forms for LIHEAP from [DSS Energy Assistance]. Accessibility note: call centers note all calls in Central Time—plan around time zones. (dlr.sd.gov)

Resources by Region — Where to Walk In or Call

• Sioux Falls Area: DLR Job Service at 1501 S. Highline Ave., Suite 1D (605-367-5300), transit via SAM On Demand, and Dress for Success at EmBe Downtown (walk‑ins on Wednesdays). Open hours at [Sioux Falls Job Service], fares at [SAM fares], and program info at [Dress for Success Sioux Falls]. What to do if this doesn’t work: call 211 for the closest county human services office and The Banquet for meals via [meal times page]. (dlr.sd.gov)
• Rapid City & Black Hills: DLR Job Service (2330 N. Maple Ave., Suite 1; 605-394-2296), Cornerstone Mission’s Women & Children’s Home, and rural transit through Prairie Hills Transit. See [Rapid City Job Service], program details at [Cornerstone Women & Children’s Home], and county service notes at [Prairie Hills Transit Pennington]. What to do if this doesn’t work: call Love INC of the Black Hills (furniture/household, classes) using [Love INC info]. (dlr.sd.gov)
• Aberdeen, Watertown, Yankton, Spearfish, Vermillion, Pierre, Huron, Mitchell: find each office address and manager contact on DLR’s location map; ask about virtual appointments and free Wi‑Fi. Community Transit serves Watertown/Sisseton areas; River Cities serves Pierre region. Use the [DLR locations list], [CTWS contact page], and [RCPT contact]. What to do if this doesn’t work: request a virtual job services appointment through the [local offices page]. (dlr.sd.gov)

If Your Application Gets Denied (RA, SNAP, Child Care, or Medicaid)

• Unemployment (RA): you have 15 days from mailing date to appeal; keep filing weekly during the appeal. The Appeals Section address and fax are on the state page. Follow the steps on [RA Appeals] and see appeal rights highlighted again in the [RA FAQ]. Plan B: get legal advice—call [East River Legal Services] or use the [State Bar Lawyer Referral Service] for a consult. (dlr.sd.gov)
• SNAP/Medicaid: request a fair hearing by the deadline on your notice; most hearings must conclude within 60–90 days depending on program. See the [DSS Fair Hearings page] and keep your benefits notice with dates. Plan B: call 211 and ask for a navigator or legal aid; DPLS serves many tribal communities via [Dakota Plains Legal Services]. (dss.sd.gov)
• Child Care Assistance: if denied or the co‑pay seems wrong, ask CCS to re‑review income deductions; reference the 2025 sliding scale. Use the [eligibility page] and [CCS contact line] at 1-800-227-3020. Plan B: ask WIOA about short‑term care supports while training using [Training Opportunities]. (dss.sd.gov)

Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

• Dress for Success Sioux Falls at EmBe provides professional clothing, coaching, and mentoring; self‑referrals accepted. Program details at [Dress for Success] and hours in [Helpline listing]; pair with [SDWORKS] job search alerts. What to do if this doesn’t work: ask St. Francis House about work gear from community donations using the [transitional housing listing]. (embe.org)
• Feeding South Dakota supports every county with mobile food distributions; no ID required, once per month per site. Find a site at [Find Food map] and confirm rules at [Mobile Food Distribution FAQ]; if slots are full, 211 can redirect you via [Helpline Center]. What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your school about BackPack Programs listed on [Feeding South Dakota’s site]. (feedingsouthdakota.org)
• The Community Outreach (Sioux Falls) and Salvation Army provide one‑time rent/utility help; docs required. Appointments at [The Community Outreach] and eligibility at [Salvation Army Sioux Falls utility aid]; pair with [Minnehaha County Human Services] for a Notice of Action first. What to do if this doesn’t work: request a list of churches helping with deposits via [Helpline Center]. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
• Love INC of the Black Hills mobilizes churches for furniture, linens, classes, and mentorship; intake is by phone. Get help via [Love INC Get Help] and the [Clearinghouse listing]; this is a good step after you secure housing and need basics. What to do if this doesn’t work: search 211 for “furniture voucher” through [Helpline Center]. (loveinconline.com)

County‑Specific Variations You Should Know

• Minnehaha & Lincoln counties often require a county Notice of Action before charities assist with rent/utilities. Check hours at [Minnehaha County Human Services] and confirm charity requirements at [The Community Outreach]. What to do if this doesn’t work: ask DSS for written proof of SNAP/TANF/LIHEAP applications through the [DSS contact page]. (minnehahacounty.gov)
• Pennington County residents typically use Rapid City Job Service and may rely on Cornerstone Mission for transitional housing; Prairie Hills Transit helps with out‑of‑city medical/work trips. Use [Rapid City Job Service], [Cornerstone Women & Children’s Home], and [Prairie Hills Transit info]. What to do if this doesn’t work: call 211 from the Black Hills offices listed at [Helpline Center]. (dlr.sd.gov)

Transportation to Work, Training, and Interviews

• Sioux Falls: SAM bus plus citywide On Demand service runs Mon–Sat; youth ride free, veterans ride free, standard adult fare is $1.50; book by app or phone. See [How to ride SAM], check [fares & passes], and call [SAM On Demand] for no‑smartphone booking. What to do if this doesn’t work: ask for paratransit eligibility and large‑print guides through [SAM Paratransit]. (siouxareametro.info)
• Rural and regional: Community Transit of Watertown/Sisseton covers many Northeast counties; River Cities Public Transit serves Pierre and beyond with 24/7 operations. Contact [CTWS locations], see [CTWS services], and call [RCPT 24/7 scheduling]. What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your Job Service office for gas cards or ride supports tied to WIOA in the [local offices map]. (communitytransitws.com)

Ten South Dakota‑Specific FAQs

• How much will I get on unemployment, and for how long? South Dakota pays $28–$553 weekly for up to 26 weeks, based on 1/26 of your highest base‑period quarter wages, capped at 50% of the state average weekly wage. Verify on [2025 Benefit Amounts] and see the formula at [LMI WBA method]. What to do if this doesn’t work: appeal the Monetary Determination within 15 days using the [Appeals page]. (dlr.sd.gov)
• Is there a waiting week? Yes—your first eligible week is non‑payable. See “Your Waiting Week” in [File Weekly Request] and keep filing weekly. What to do if this doesn’t work: if you didn’t get paid after three weeks, call Customer Service listed in the [RA FAQ]. (dlr.sd.gov)
• How many job contacts do I need each week? At least two verifiable contacts unless exempt; keep detailed logs. Follow [Work Search Requirements] and download the [Tracking Sheet form]. What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your Job Service office to review acceptable activities on the [local offices page]. (dlr.sd.gov)
• Can I work part‑time and still collect? Yes, if under 40 hours and you earn less than your WBA; the state ignores the first $25, then deducts 75% of the rest. Read [Work & Earnings rules] and [Deductions from Benefits] with examples. What to do if this doesn’t work: correct any under‑reported earnings immediately per [Honest Reporting]. (dlr.sd.gov)
• How do I get paid? Way2Go debit card by default or direct deposit; activate the card on arrival. Switch payment in [Payment Methods] and review [RA FAQ]. What to do if this doesn’t work: report lost cards to Way2Go using contact info on [Payment Methods]. (dlr.sd.gov)
• I was denied—what now? Appeal within 15 days by mail/fax; keep filing weekly during the appeal. Use the instructions on [RA Appeals] and [RA FAQ]. What to do if this doesn’t work: call [East River Legal Services] or the [Lawyer Referral Service]. (dlr.sd.gov)
• How fast can I get food help? SNAP applications are online and phone‑friendly; Feeding South Dakota mobile distributions can be same week. Apply for [SNAP online] and search [Mobile Food Distribution]. What to do if this doesn’t work: enroll in [WIC] if pregnant or have kids under five. (dss.sd.gov)
• My Medicaid ended after the pandemic redeterminations—can I get back on? With expansion in place, many adults under 138% FPL qualify. Review [CMS’ expansion release] and apply via [DSS Medicaid]. What to do if this doesn’t work: request a [DSS fair hearing] by the deadline on your notice. (cms.gov)
• I need clothes for interviews—where can I go**? Dress for Success Sioux Falls offers suiting and coaching; walk‑ins on Wednesdays. Find details at [Dress for Success Sioux Falls] and hours at [Helpline listing]; ride to appointments using [SAM On Demand]. What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your Job Service office or St. Francis House for donated workwear via the [transitional housing page]. (embe.org)
• What’s the fastest way to reach a real person for help? For benefits: RA Customer Service 605-626-2452; SNAP line 1-877-999-5612; Energy Assistance 1-800-233-8503; 211 can conference you into agencies. Save [RA contacts], [SNAP page], and [Energy Assistance page]. What to do if this doesn’t work: file complaints with the [PUC Consumer Affairs] when utilities fail to respond. (dlr.sd.gov)

Tables You Can Use

A. Core Programs for Unemployed Single Moms in South Dakota

B. Work Search & Earnings — What Counts

C. Key Contacts by City

(dlr.sd.gov)

D. Legal and Advocacy

E. Transportation to Work

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About unemployment overpayments and fraud warnings

If you’re overpaid and it wasn’t your fault, you can request a financial waiver; appeal or waiver requests generally must be made within 15 days of the notice date. Accurate reporting of earnings, severance, and return‑to‑work dates prevents headaches. See the state’s [Overpayments FAQ] and [Accurate & Honest Reporting] pages for steps. What to do if this doesn’t work: call Benefit Payment Control at 605-626-7649 to ask about a payment plan while a waiver is pending. (dlr.sd.gov)

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Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español

Traducción hecha con herramientas de IA; verifique con las oficinas oficiales.

• Presente su solicitud de desempleo (RA) hoy y envíe su “solicitud semanal” cada domingo en el [Portal de Beneficios RA] o por teléfono 605‑626‑3212; la primera semana elegible es una “semana de espera” sin pago, y los montos (a partir del 6 de julio de 2025) van de $28a$553 por semana según salarios previos. Más sobre [cómo presentar] y [montos 2025]. (dlr.sd.gov)
• Para evitar cortes de luz/calefacción, pida un certificado médico (aplaza 30 días) y solicite ayuda de LIHEAP (ECIP) al 1‑800‑233‑8503; si la empresa no coopera, llame a la Comisión de Servicios Públicos (PUC) al 1‑800‑332‑1782. Vea [regla médica PUC] y [energía/LIHEAP]. (regulations.justia.com)
• Para comida inmediata, solicite SNAP en línea y use el mapa de [Distribuciones Móviles de Feeding South Dakota]; si está embarazada o tiene niños menores de 5 años, llame a [WIC en SD]. (dss.sd.gov)
• Para cuidado infantil, solicite el programa estatal (hasta 209% del nivel federal de pobreza) desde la página de [Child Care Services]; busque proveedores con el [buscador DSS]. (dss.sd.gov)
• Para transporte en Sioux Falls, use [SAM On Demand] (605‑460‑6256) y, en zonas rurales, [Community Transit] o [River Cities Public Transit]. (siouxareametro.info)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• [South Dakota Department of Labor & Regulation — Reemployment Assistance], [RA weekly filing rules], and [Appeals]. (dlr.sd.gov)
• [South Dakota Department of Social Services — SNAP], [Child Care Services], and [Energy & Weatherization Assistance]. (dss.sd.gov)
• [South Dakota Department of Health — WIC contacts/guidelines]. (fns.usda.gov)
• [South Dakota Public Utilities Commission — Consumer Affairs & medical emergency rule]. (puc.sd.gov)
• [DLR Job Service Offices map & resources] and [ETPL training pages]. (dlr.sd.gov)
• [Feeding South Dakota — Find Food/Mobile Food Distribution] and [Helpline Center 211]. (feedingsouthdakota.org)
• [Sioux Area Metro (SAM) — fares/on demand/how to ride] and regional transit [CTWS], [RCPT]. (siouxareametro.info)
• [East River Legal Services] and [State Bar Lawyer Referral Service] for appeals help. (erlservices.org)

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

Important: This information is for general guidance. Program rules, funding availability, and eligibility can change with little notice. Always confirm current details with the agency or organization linked in this guide before you apply or make financial decisions. If you face an emergency (shutoff notice, eviction, health crisis), call the agency numbers provided and 211 the same day for the fastest, local assistance.

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🏛️More South Dakota Resources for Single Mothers

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