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housing assistance in south dakota

Housing Assistance for Single Mothers in South Dakota

Last Updated on September 18, 2025 by Rachel

Complete Housing Assistance Guide for Single Mothers in South Dakota

Last updated: August 2025


Information verified with current program data as of August 12, 2025

Main Points

  • Emergency rental assistance is available through SD CARES Housing Assistance Program for COVID-19 related hardships
  • Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) help pay up to 70% of rent, but waiting lists range from 4-36 months depending on location
  • USDA rural home loans offer 5.125% interest rates with no down payment for eligible rural areas
  • LIHEAP energy assistance provides up to $2,400 for heating costs based on household income and energy needs
  • Income limits vary by county – most programs serve families earning 50-80% of area median income
  • Multiple programs can be combined for maximum assistance

If You Need Help Today

Facing eviction or homeless? Call 2-1-1 immediately for emergency assistance or contact your local Community Action Agency.

Can’t pay utilities? Apply for Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP) if you have a disconnect notice.

Need rent help now? Apply for SD CARES Housing Assistance – they serve all South Dakota counties.

In danger? National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233 or call 2-1-1 for local resources.

Emergency Housing Assistance

SD CARES Housing Assistance Program

SD CARES is a rental and utility assistance program administered by South Dakota Housing, Helpline Center, and partner agencies for those experiencing financial hardships due to COVID-19.

What it covers:

  • Past-due rent and utility payments
  • Future rent payments (up to 3 months)
  • Utility deposits and reconnection fees
  • Moving costs and security deposits

Income requirements: Households must income-qualify based on county of residence and have experienced financial hardship due to COVID-19.

How to apply: Contact the Helpline Center at 2-1-1 or email sdcares@helplinecenter.org. Applications are processed through local partner agencies.

Processing time: Applications are typically processed within 2-4 weeks, but funding availability varies by county.

Reality check: This program specifically targets COVID-19 related hardships. If your situation isn’t related to the pandemic, you’ll need to look at other emergency assistance options through local Community Action Agencies.

Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP)

ECIP provides emergency energy assistance for income-eligible households facing disconnection or out of deliverable fuel.

Crisis situations covered:

  • Current disconnection notice for primary heat source
  • Cash-on-delivery or refusal to deliver with less than 20% fuel remaining
  • Eviction notice for non-payment when heat is included in rent

How to apply: Contact your local Department of Social Services office or call (800) 233-8503 to request an application.

Available: October 1 through March 31 each year.

Community Action Agencies

South Dakota has multiple Community Action Agencies serving all counties, providing emergency assistance including rental help, utility payments, and basic needs support.

Contact: Call 2-1-1 to be connected with your local Community Action Agency for immediate assistance.

Long-Term Housing Programs

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

The Section 8 program provides rental assistance to eligible low-income families, with participants typically paying 30% of their income toward rent.

Current Waiting List Status (2025)

Housing Authority Location Waiting List Status Estimated Wait Time
Sioux Falls Housing Sioux Falls Open (as of March 2025) 12-18 months
Yankton Housing Yankton Open 4-8 months (as of July 2025)
Pennington County Rapid City area Check current status 18-36 months
Meade County Sturgis area Check current status Variable

Income Eligibility Guidelines: Income limits vary by county and household size, generally serving households at or below 50% of Area Median Income.

Priority groups:

  • Families experiencing homelessness
  • Families with disabilities
  • Elderly households
  • Families paying more than 50% of income for rent

Application process:

  1. Contact your local Public Housing Authority
  2. Complete application when waiting list is open
  3. Provide income verification, ID, Social Security cards, and rental history
  4. Wait for voucher availability (varies by location)
  5. Attend voucher briefing once selected
  6. Find qualifying rental unit within 60 days
  7. Pass housing quality standards inspection before move-in

Reality check: Waiting times vary dramatically by location, from 4-8 months in smaller cities like Yankton to 18-36 months in larger areas like Rapid City. Many housing authorities periodically close their waiting lists when they become too long. Check current waiting list status before applying.

Public Housing

Public housing developments are owned and operated by local housing authorities. Rent is typically 30% of adjusted income.

Pros:

  • Lower cost than Section 8 in some areas
  • Stable housing with on-site management
  • Some properties offer supportive services

Cons:

  • Limited locations throughout the state
  • Long waiting lists
  • Less choice in neighborhoods

USDA Rural Housing Programs

Section 502 Direct Loans

The USDA Section 502 program helps low- and very-low-income applicants obtain housing in eligible rural areas with no down payment typically required.

Current rates: 5.125% fixed interest rate as of August 1, 2025, potentially reduced to as low as 1% with payment assistance subsidy.

Loan terms: Up to 33 years (38 years for very low-income applicants who cannot afford the 33-year term).

Payment assistance: Temporary subsidy available based on adjusted family income to reduce monthly payments.

Eligibility requirements:

  • Adjusted income at or below low-income limits for the area
  • Unable to obtain conventional financing on reasonable terms
  • Property must be in USDA-eligible rural area
  • U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen

How to apply: Contact your regional USDA Rural Development office. Processing times vary by funding availability and application completeness.

South Dakota USDA Offices:

  • Pierre Office: Serving central South Dakota – Phone: (605) 224-1835
  • Aberdeen Office: Serving northeast South Dakota – Phone: (605) 626-2595

Section 504 Home Repair Loans and Grants

USDA also offers home repair assistance for very low-income rural homeowners.

Loans: Up to $40,000 at 1% interest for 20 years Grants: Up to $10,000 lifetime limit (must be 62+ years old) Combined assistance: Up to $50,000 total

Utility Assistance Programs

Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

LIHEAP helps eligible households pay for home heating costs, with energy assistance funds distributed on a first-come basis.

Income Eligibility (200% Federal Poverty Level)

South Dakotans with household income at or below 200% of federal poverty guidelines are eligible for the program.

Household Size Maximum Annual Income (200% FPL)
1 person $30,120
2 people $40,880
3 people $51,640
4 people $62,400

Benefits Available (2025)

Benefits range from $668 up to $2,400, depending on household income and energy costs. Priority is given to households with the highest needs or home energy costs in relation to their income.

Application period: Applications accepted through March 31 each year.

Processing time: Typically 2-4 weeks after complete application submission.

Required documents:

  • Photo ID for utility account holder
  • Social Security cards for all household members
  • Recent utility bills
  • Proof of income for previous month for all household members 18+

How to apply: Visit your local Department of Social Services office to obtain an application or call (800) 233-8503 to request an application be mailed to you.

Weatherization Assistance Program

The Weatherization Assistance Program helps low-income households make their homes more energy efficient.

Services provided:

  • Insulation improvements
  • Heating system repairs or replacement
  • Air sealing and weatherproofing
  • Energy-efficient appliance installation

Eligibility: Must be income-eligible for LIHEAP and demonstrate financial need.

Homeownership Programs

South Dakota Housing Programs

South Dakota Housing offers homeownership programs with benefits for first-time buyers, including down payment and closing cost assistance.

Available programs:

  • First-time homebuyer loans: Below-market interest rates
  • Down payment assistance: Up to $15,000 in assistance
  • Mortgage Credit Certificates: Annual tax credits to reduce federal taxes

Governor’s House Program

The Governor’s House Program offers energy-efficient homes that are reasonably sized and budget-friendly for qualifying South Dakota residents.

Income limits: Make $59,789 or less in one or two-person households or $62,320 or less in households of three or more.

Note: There is an extended wait for new house orders, and prices are subject to change.

Down Payment Assistance Programs

HAPI (Homes Are Possible Inc.)

HAPI offers up to $5,000 in down payment assistance as a 0%-interest loan with no monthly payments, repaid only when you sell the home or refinance.

Service area: Aberdeen and surrounding counties in northeast South Dakota.

Contact: (605) 225-4274

Cash Assistance Programs

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

South Dakota TANF is a temporary public assistance program for low-income families with children under age 18 that helps them “move from welfare to work”.

TANF Benefits (2025)

Family Size Maximum Monthly Payment
1 adult + 1 child $483 (shared living)
1 adult + 2 children Up to $701
Larger families Varies based on circumstances

Work requirements: All able-bodied TANF participants must work in allowable activities minimum 30 hours per week (20 hours if you have a child under age 6).

Time limits: Adults may not receive TANF benefits for more than 60 months (five years) lifetime.

How to apply: Apply online through the SD DSS Online System or at any local DSS office.

Specialized Housing Resources

Transitional Housing Programs

South Dakota has limited transitional housing specifically for single mothers, but several programs serve families in crisis:

Safe housing for domestic violence survivors:

  • Contact 2-1-1 for referrals to local domestic violence shelters
  • National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233

Emergency Shelter Services

Contact methods:

Inclusive Housing Resources

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

While South Dakota has limited LGBTQ+-specific housing programs, resources are available:

National resources:

  • National LGBTQ Task Force: Housing discrimination information
  • SAGE (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders): Senior housing resources

Local support:

  • Contact 2-1-1 and specifically ask about LGBTQ+-affirming housing providers
  • All federal housing programs are available regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity

Tribal-Specific Resources

The South Dakota Native Homeownership Coalition promotes Native American homeownership by facilitating working committees that address key issues among the Native American people of South Dakota.

Programs available:

  • BIA Housing Program provides grant funding for housing repairs, construction, and down payments for tribal members with income at or below 150% of federal poverty guidelines
  • Section 184 Indian Housing Loan Guarantee Program helps Native Americans get mortgages for homes on or off tribal lands
  • Tribal HUD-VASH provides rental assistance and support services to Native American veterans

Tribal Housing Authorities in South Dakota:

  • Cheyenne River Housing Authority
  • Pine Ridge Housing Authority
  • Rosebud Housing Authority
  • Crow Creek Housing Authority
  • Contact individual tribal offices for specific programs

Rural Single Mothers with Limited Access

Rural families face unique challenges including limited transportation and fewer service providers.

Specialized resources:

  • USDA Rural Development programs (described above)
  • USDA has helped over 2,600 Native families become homeowners through the Single Family Housing Direct Program since 2000
  • Community Action Agencies provide outreach services in rural areas
  • Mobile service delivery in some counties

Transportation assistance:

  • Contact local Community Action Agencies for transportation vouchers
  • Some agencies provide gas cards for essential appointments

Single Fathers

While this guide focuses on single mothers, single fathers face similar housing challenges and can access the same programs:

All housing assistance programs described above are available regardless of gender

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
  • USDA Rural Housing programs
  • LIHEAP energy assistance
  • TANF cash assistance
  • Emergency rental assistance

Resources by Region

Eastern South Dakota (Sioux Falls Metro)

Sioux Falls Housing and Redevelopment Commission

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
  • Public housing programs
  • Waiting list reopened March 3, 2025
  • Phone: (605) 332-0704
  • Email: sfhrc@siouxfallshousing.org

Inter-Lakes Community Action Partnership

Central South Dakota (Pierre Area)

South Dakota Housing (Main Office)

  • State housing programs administration
  • Governor’s House Program
  • Address: 3060 E. Elizabeth St., Pierre, SD 57501
  • Phone: (605) 773-3181

Community Action Partnership

  • LIHEAP utility assistance
  • Emergency rental assistance
  • Various supportive services

Western South Dakota (Rapid City/Black Hills)

Pennington County Housing and Redevelopment Commission

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers serving Pennington County, Fall River County, and the City of Martin
  • Public housing programs
  • Contact for current waiting list status

NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources

  • Homeownership counseling and assistance
  • Located in Deadwood, serving western South Dakota
  • Address: 795 Main St, Deadwood, SD 57732
  • Phone: (605) 578-1401

Northern South Dakota (Aberdeen Area)

HAPI (Homes Are Possible Inc.)

  • Down payment assistance up to $5,000
  • Homebuyer education and counseling
  • Serving Beadle, Brown, Campbell, Day, Edmunds, Faulk, Hand, Hughes, Hyde, Marshal, McPherson, Potter, Roberts, Spink, Stanley, Sully and Walworth counties
  • Address: 320 S Main St, Aberdeen, SD 57401
  • Phone: (605) 225-4274

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

How long do I have to wait for Section 8 in South Dakota?

Waiting times vary dramatically by location. In Yankton, the wait is currently 4-8 months as of July 2025, while larger cities like Rapid City can have waits of 18-36 months. Sioux Falls reopened their waiting list in March 2025, but fills quickly. Many housing authorities periodically close their waiting lists when they become too long.

Can I get LIHEAP help if I rent and heat is included?

For renters whose heating costs are included in their rent and who do not have a separate utility payment, some assistance may be available but additional eligibility criteria may apply. Contact your local Department of Social Services office to discuss your specific situation.

What if I live in a rural area with limited services?

Rural residents have access to additional programs. USDA Section 502 Direct Loans are specifically for rural areas and offer no down payment options. Community Action Agencies provide outreach services to rural areas, and some offer mobile services or transportation assistance.

How much TANF can I get in South Dakota?

A single mother with two children may receive up to $701 per month, but amounts vary based on who lives with the family, who is eligible, and other income. TANF requires work activities – 30 hours per week minimum (20 hours if you have a child under 6).

Can I combine different assistance programs?

Yes, you can often combine programs. For example, you might receive TANF cash assistance, SNAP benefits for food, LIHEAP for utilities, and apply for Section 8 housing – as long as you meet each program’s individual requirements.

What if I’m Native American? Are there special programs?

Yes, there are specific programs for Native Americans including BIA Housing Program grants, Section 184 loans for homeownership, and Tribal HUD-VASH for veterans. Contact your tribal housing authority or the South Dakota Native Homeownership Coalition for information.

How do I apply for emergency help if I’m being evicted?

Call 2-1-1 immediately for emergency assistance. If you have an eviction notice for non-payment when heat is included in rent, you may qualify for Energy Crisis Intervention Program. Also contact your local Community Action Agency for emergency rental assistance.

What if I don’t qualify for federal programs because of immigration status?

While most federal housing programs require legal immigration status, emergency assistance through Community Action Agencies may be available regardless of status. Contact 2-1-1 for guidance on local programs that might help.

Warning Signs and Reality Checks

Red Flags to Avoid

Housing scams are common: Never pay fees to apply for Section 8 or public housing. Government programs are free to apply for.

Fake landlords: Be wary of rental listings requiring money upfront before viewing the property or that seem too good to be true.

“Guaranteed” housing: No legitimate service can guarantee you’ll receive housing assistance or move to the front of waiting lists.

Common Challenges

Limited funding: All assistance programs have more applicants than available help. Apply early and to multiple programs.

Rural isolation: Services may be limited in rural areas, but transportation assistance is sometimes available through Community Action Agencies.

Long waiting lists: Section 8 waiting lists in South Dakota can range from months to years, so maintain other housing arrangements while waiting.

Work requirements: TANF requires significant work participation, which can be challenging for single mothers with young children.

Tips for Success

Apply to multiple programs simultaneously: Don’t wait to be denied by one program before applying to others.

Keep all documentation: Maintain organized files of applications, documents, and correspondence.

Follow up regularly: Call agencies monthly to check on application status.

Be honest about your situation: Provide accurate information – programs are designed to help people in difficult circumstances.

Get help navigating the system: Contact a HUD-approved housing counselor at (800) 569-4287 for free assistance.

Additional Resources

South Dakota State Agencies

South Dakota Department of Social Services

South Dakota Housing

Federal Resources

HUD Customer Service

USDA Rural Development

Legal Aid

East River Legal Services

  • Free legal help for housing issues
  • Eviction defense
  • Located in Sioux Falls, serves eastern 33 counties
  • Contact through local bar association

Emergency Assistance

2-1-1 South Dakota

  • 24/7 referral service
  • Press 6 for homeless services
  • Dial 2-1-1 or visit online

About this guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

The ASingleMother.org team has been researching and writing comprehensive benefits guides for single mothers across all 50 states since 2020. Our editorial team regularly updates these guides by reviewing official government sources, contacting state agencies, and incorporating feedback from hundreds of single mothers who have used these programs.

This South Dakota guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including South Dakota Department of Social Services, South Dakota Housing, USDA, HUD, and local nonprofits to ensure accuracy.

Information compiled from official South Dakota Department of Social Services, South Dakota Housing, USDA, and HUD sources. Last verified: August 2025.

The ASingleMother.org editorial team welcomes feedback on this guide. If you find outdated information or discover new resources, please contact us at info@asinglemother.org so we can help other single mothers with accurate, current information.

Disclaimer

Program details, income limits, and availability can change. This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal or financial advice. Always verify current program requirements, application deadlines, and income limits with the relevant agency before applying. Funding for assistance programs is limited and not guaranteed to be available when you apply.

For the most current information, contact programs directly or speak with a HUD-approved housing counselor at (800) 569-4287.

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