SNAP Benefits in South Dakota: How to Apply and Qualify
See if you qualify for SNAP in South Dakota. Find income limits, benefit amounts, and how to apply and manage benefits.
Rishi Ahuja
Updated on:
Dec 15, 2025
Published on:
Oct 6, 2025
SNAP Benefits in South Dakota: How to Apply and Qualify
See if you qualify for SNAP in South Dakota. Find income limits, benefit amounts, and how to apply and manage benefits.
Rishi Ahuja
Updated on:
Dec 15, 2025
Published on:
Oct 6, 2025
SNAP Benefits in South Dakota: How to Apply and Qualify
See if you qualify for SNAP in South Dakota. Find income limits, benefit amounts, and how to apply and manage benefits.
Rishi Ahuja
Updated on:
Dec 15, 2025
Published on:
Oct 6, 2025
SNAP Benefits in South Dakota: How to Apply and Qualify
See if you qualify for SNAP in South Dakota. Find income limits, benefit amounts, and how to apply and manage benefits.
Rishi Ahuja
Updated on:
Dec 15, 2025
Published on:
Oct 6, 2025
SNAP Benefits in South Dakota: How to Apply and Qualify
See if you qualify for SNAP in South Dakota. Find income limits, benefit amounts, and how to apply and manage benefits.
Rishi Ahuja
Updated on:
Dec 15, 2025
Published on:
Oct 6, 2025
SHARE
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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, helps you and your family buy groceries. It provides monthly funds on an EBT card to help low-income households in South Dakota afford healthy food.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in South Dakota
To qualify for SNAP benefits in South Dakota, your household's gross monthly income must fall at or below set limits, which are based on 130% of the federal poverty level. The maximum benefit amounts are determined annually by the USDA’s Thrifty Food Plan.
Below are the South Dakota SNAP benefits 2025 income limits and maximum monthly payments based on household size, effective October 1, 2024.
Household Size 1
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,632
Maximum Benefit Amount: $291Household Size 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,215
Maximum Benefit Amount: $535Household Size 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,798
Maximum Benefit Amount: $766Household Size 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,380
Maximum Benefit Amount: $975Household Size 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,963
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,155Household Size 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,546
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,386Household Size 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,129
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,532Household Size 8
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,712
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,751
For each additional person in your household, add $583 to the gross income limit and $219 to the maximum benefit amount.
Because these figures can be updated, it's a good idea to check the official South Dakota SNAP page for the most current information.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in South Dakota
To determine your South Dakota SNAP benefits eligibility, you must meet several requirements related to your income, residency, and work status.
Income Limits: Your household's gross and net income must be below certain thresholds, and your countable resources must not exceed $2,750, or $4,250 if a member is elderly or disabled.
Residency Requirements: You must live in South Dakota and apply for benefits in the county where you reside.
Citizenship Status: You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen, and everyone applying needs to provide or apply for a Social Security number.
Work Requirements: SNAP benefits eligibility for South Dakota requires able-bodied adults to meet work requirements, including time limits for those aged 18-54 without dependents unless they are exempt.
Special Conditions: Households with elderly or disabled members are exempt from the gross income test, and deductions for expenses like shelter or child care can be applied.
You can find detailed rules and application forms on the South Dakota SNAP webpage.
Download Benny app to save on groceries
Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score
Download the app
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in South Dakota
You can apply for SNAP benefits in South Dakota online, in person, or by mail. Each method follows the same eligibility review.
Online Application
Applying online is often the fastest method. You can fill out the application and upload your documents directly through the South Dakota Department of Social Services website, completing the process from home.
Your household’s monthly income must fall within specific limits. Generally, gross income cannot exceed 130% of the federal poverty level. These income limits are effective from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.
1 person: $1,632 gross / $1,255 net
2 people: $2,215 gross / $1,704 net
4 people: $3,380 gross / $2,600 net
8 people: $5,712 gross / $4,214 net
In-Person Application
You can apply in person at a Department of Social Services office. To meet the residency requirement, you must file your application in the South Dakota county where you currently live.
Your household must also meet resource limits. Most households can have up to $2,750 in countable resources. If your household includes a member who is 60 or older or has a disability, the limit increases to $4,250.
By Mail
If you prefer a paper application, you can download the form from the DSS website or request one. After completing it, mail the application to your local DSS office for processing.
All applicants must provide a Social Security number and meet citizenship or qualified non-citizen status. Additionally, able-bodied adults without dependents must follow specific work requirements to maintain eligibility, such as working at least 80 hours per month.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in South Dakota
SNAP Information Line: Call 877-999-5612 for help with eligibility and benefit questions.
Hours of Operation: You can reach them on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time.
See South Dakota EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in South Dakota
Once you're approved for SNAP, it's time to learn how to use your benefits, including what you can buy and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
Your SNAP benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card each month. This card holds your food assistance funds electronically, replacing the old paper food stamp system. It's a dedicated account for your grocery benefits.
Using your EBT card is simple and works just like a debit card. At an approved store’s checkout, you swipe your card and enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN). The purchase amount is then deducted from your SNAP balance.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your EBT card is for purchasing household groceries. You can use your benefits to buy staple foods that help you prepare meals at home. Eligible items generally include:
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants that produce food
However, SNAP benefits cannot be used for certain items. This includes prepared foods that are hot at the point of sale and non-food products. Ineligible items include:
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Live animals (except shellfish, fish removed from water, and animals slaughtered prior to pick-up)
Hot foods
Non-food items like pet foods, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Staying on top of your SNAP benefits helps you budget effectively. This means tracking your balance and knowing when to expect deposits.
EBT Deposit Schedule in South Dakota
In South Dakota, SNAP benefits are deposited on the 10th of every month. This fixed date, which applies to everyone, helps you plan your grocery shopping and budget your monthly food expenses.
You can find your specific payment date in our South Dakota deposit schedule.
See South Dakota EBT deposit schedule for 2025
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your EBT balance through the online portal, the Benny app, by calling the number on your card, or by looking at an ATM or your last store receipt.
Our guide covers each method on how to check your EBT balance.
Check Your South Dakota EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time. It also offers cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco.
To get started, simply link your EBT card. After shopping, scan your receipt with the app to receive cashback on your SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more from your EBT benefits.
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In South Dakota, you must recertify your SNAP benefits periodically, usually every six to twelve months. The Department of Social Services will mail you a recertification packet when it's time to renew your eligibility.
You will need to provide documents verifying your current income, such as recent pay stubs, and expenses like rent or utility bills. Submitting your completed packet before the deadline is the best way to prevent a gap in your monthly assistance.
Special SNAP Services in South Dakota
South Dakota offers special SNAP services for urgent situations. These include expedited benefits for emergencies, disaster relief, and extra help during public health crises.
Expedited SNAP
Households with very little money can get benefits within seven days. You may qualify if your income and resources are extremely low. Apply through the regular SNAP application and request “expedited service” for faster processing.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
After a major disaster, D-SNAP helps you buy food if you lived in the affected area and had disaster-related costs. When activated, DSS provides application details. Check for current D-SNAP information on the USDA website.
Emergency SNAP Allotments (EA)
During federal emergencies, all SNAP households may automatically receive the maximum benefit amount. No separate application is needed as the extra funds are loaded onto your EBT card. Future updates will be posted on the state's waiver page.
Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT)
This program helped families buy groceries for children who lost access to school meals during the pandemic. Benefits were issued automatically to eligible students, so no application was required from parents. Keep your school information updated for any future programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, helps you and your family buy groceries. It provides monthly funds on an EBT card to help low-income households in South Dakota afford healthy food.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in South Dakota
To qualify for SNAP benefits in South Dakota, your household's gross monthly income must fall at or below set limits, which are based on 130% of the federal poverty level. The maximum benefit amounts are determined annually by the USDA’s Thrifty Food Plan.
Below are the South Dakota SNAP benefits 2025 income limits and maximum monthly payments based on household size, effective October 1, 2024.
Household Size 1
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,632
Maximum Benefit Amount: $291Household Size 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,215
Maximum Benefit Amount: $535Household Size 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,798
Maximum Benefit Amount: $766Household Size 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,380
Maximum Benefit Amount: $975Household Size 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,963
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,155Household Size 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,546
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,386Household Size 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,129
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,532Household Size 8
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,712
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,751
For each additional person in your household, add $583 to the gross income limit and $219 to the maximum benefit amount.
Because these figures can be updated, it's a good idea to check the official South Dakota SNAP page for the most current information.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in South Dakota
To determine your South Dakota SNAP benefits eligibility, you must meet several requirements related to your income, residency, and work status.
Income Limits: Your household's gross and net income must be below certain thresholds, and your countable resources must not exceed $2,750, or $4,250 if a member is elderly or disabled.
Residency Requirements: You must live in South Dakota and apply for benefits in the county where you reside.
Citizenship Status: You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen, and everyone applying needs to provide or apply for a Social Security number.
Work Requirements: SNAP benefits eligibility for South Dakota requires able-bodied adults to meet work requirements, including time limits for those aged 18-54 without dependents unless they are exempt.
Special Conditions: Households with elderly or disabled members are exempt from the gross income test, and deductions for expenses like shelter or child care can be applied.
You can find detailed rules and application forms on the South Dakota SNAP webpage.
Download Benny app to save on groceries
Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score
Download the app
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in South Dakota
You can apply for SNAP benefits in South Dakota online, in person, or by mail. Each method follows the same eligibility review.
Online Application
Applying online is often the fastest method. You can fill out the application and upload your documents directly through the South Dakota Department of Social Services website, completing the process from home.
Your household’s monthly income must fall within specific limits. Generally, gross income cannot exceed 130% of the federal poverty level. These income limits are effective from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.
1 person: $1,632 gross / $1,255 net
2 people: $2,215 gross / $1,704 net
4 people: $3,380 gross / $2,600 net
8 people: $5,712 gross / $4,214 net
In-Person Application
You can apply in person at a Department of Social Services office. To meet the residency requirement, you must file your application in the South Dakota county where you currently live.
Your household must also meet resource limits. Most households can have up to $2,750 in countable resources. If your household includes a member who is 60 or older or has a disability, the limit increases to $4,250.
By Mail
If you prefer a paper application, you can download the form from the DSS website or request one. After completing it, mail the application to your local DSS office for processing.
All applicants must provide a Social Security number and meet citizenship or qualified non-citizen status. Additionally, able-bodied adults without dependents must follow specific work requirements to maintain eligibility, such as working at least 80 hours per month.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in South Dakota
SNAP Information Line: Call 877-999-5612 for help with eligibility and benefit questions.
Hours of Operation: You can reach them on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time.
See South Dakota EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in South Dakota
Once you're approved for SNAP, it's time to learn how to use your benefits, including what you can buy and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
Your SNAP benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card each month. This card holds your food assistance funds electronically, replacing the old paper food stamp system. It's a dedicated account for your grocery benefits.
Using your EBT card is simple and works just like a debit card. At an approved store’s checkout, you swipe your card and enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN). The purchase amount is then deducted from your SNAP balance.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your EBT card is for purchasing household groceries. You can use your benefits to buy staple foods that help you prepare meals at home. Eligible items generally include:
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants that produce food
However, SNAP benefits cannot be used for certain items. This includes prepared foods that are hot at the point of sale and non-food products. Ineligible items include:
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Live animals (except shellfish, fish removed from water, and animals slaughtered prior to pick-up)
Hot foods
Non-food items like pet foods, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Staying on top of your SNAP benefits helps you budget effectively. This means tracking your balance and knowing when to expect deposits.
EBT Deposit Schedule in South Dakota
In South Dakota, SNAP benefits are deposited on the 10th of every month. This fixed date, which applies to everyone, helps you plan your grocery shopping and budget your monthly food expenses.
You can find your specific payment date in our South Dakota deposit schedule.
See South Dakota EBT deposit schedule for 2025
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your EBT balance through the online portal, the Benny app, by calling the number on your card, or by looking at an ATM or your last store receipt.
Our guide covers each method on how to check your EBT balance.
Check Your South Dakota EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time. It also offers cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco.
To get started, simply link your EBT card. After shopping, scan your receipt with the app to receive cashback on your SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more from your EBT benefits.
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In South Dakota, you must recertify your SNAP benefits periodically, usually every six to twelve months. The Department of Social Services will mail you a recertification packet when it's time to renew your eligibility.
You will need to provide documents verifying your current income, such as recent pay stubs, and expenses like rent or utility bills. Submitting your completed packet before the deadline is the best way to prevent a gap in your monthly assistance.
Special SNAP Services in South Dakota
South Dakota offers special SNAP services for urgent situations. These include expedited benefits for emergencies, disaster relief, and extra help during public health crises.
Expedited SNAP
Households with very little money can get benefits within seven days. You may qualify if your income and resources are extremely low. Apply through the regular SNAP application and request “expedited service” for faster processing.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
After a major disaster, D-SNAP helps you buy food if you lived in the affected area and had disaster-related costs. When activated, DSS provides application details. Check for current D-SNAP information on the USDA website.
Emergency SNAP Allotments (EA)
During federal emergencies, all SNAP households may automatically receive the maximum benefit amount. No separate application is needed as the extra funds are loaded onto your EBT card. Future updates will be posted on the state's waiver page.
Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT)
This program helped families buy groceries for children who lost access to school meals during the pandemic. Benefits were issued automatically to eligible students, so no application was required from parents. Keep your school information updated for any future programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, helps you and your family buy groceries. It provides monthly funds on an EBT card to help low-income households in South Dakota afford healthy food.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in South Dakota
To qualify for SNAP benefits in South Dakota, your household's gross monthly income must fall at or below set limits, which are based on 130% of the federal poverty level. The maximum benefit amounts are determined annually by the USDA’s Thrifty Food Plan.
Below are the South Dakota SNAP benefits 2025 income limits and maximum monthly payments based on household size, effective October 1, 2024.
Household Size 1
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,632
Maximum Benefit Amount: $291Household Size 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,215
Maximum Benefit Amount: $535Household Size 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,798
Maximum Benefit Amount: $766Household Size 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,380
Maximum Benefit Amount: $975Household Size 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,963
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,155Household Size 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,546
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,386Household Size 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,129
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,532Household Size 8
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,712
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,751
For each additional person in your household, add $583 to the gross income limit and $219 to the maximum benefit amount.
Because these figures can be updated, it's a good idea to check the official South Dakota SNAP page for the most current information.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in South Dakota
To determine your South Dakota SNAP benefits eligibility, you must meet several requirements related to your income, residency, and work status.
Income Limits: Your household's gross and net income must be below certain thresholds, and your countable resources must not exceed $2,750, or $4,250 if a member is elderly or disabled.
Residency Requirements: You must live in South Dakota and apply for benefits in the county where you reside.
Citizenship Status: You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen, and everyone applying needs to provide or apply for a Social Security number.
Work Requirements: SNAP benefits eligibility for South Dakota requires able-bodied adults to meet work requirements, including time limits for those aged 18-54 without dependents unless they are exempt.
Special Conditions: Households with elderly or disabled members are exempt from the gross income test, and deductions for expenses like shelter or child care can be applied.
You can find detailed rules and application forms on the South Dakota SNAP webpage.
Download Benny app to save on groceries
Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score
Download the app
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in South Dakota
You can apply for SNAP benefits in South Dakota online, in person, or by mail. Each method follows the same eligibility review.
Online Application
Applying online is often the fastest method. You can fill out the application and upload your documents directly through the South Dakota Department of Social Services website, completing the process from home.
Your household’s monthly income must fall within specific limits. Generally, gross income cannot exceed 130% of the federal poverty level. These income limits are effective from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.
1 person: $1,632 gross / $1,255 net
2 people: $2,215 gross / $1,704 net
4 people: $3,380 gross / $2,600 net
8 people: $5,712 gross / $4,214 net
In-Person Application
You can apply in person at a Department of Social Services office. To meet the residency requirement, you must file your application in the South Dakota county where you currently live.
Your household must also meet resource limits. Most households can have up to $2,750 in countable resources. If your household includes a member who is 60 or older or has a disability, the limit increases to $4,250.
By Mail
If you prefer a paper application, you can download the form from the DSS website or request one. After completing it, mail the application to your local DSS office for processing.
All applicants must provide a Social Security number and meet citizenship or qualified non-citizen status. Additionally, able-bodied adults without dependents must follow specific work requirements to maintain eligibility, such as working at least 80 hours per month.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in South Dakota
SNAP Information Line: Call 877-999-5612 for help with eligibility and benefit questions.
Hours of Operation: You can reach them on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time.
See South Dakota EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in South Dakota
Once you're approved for SNAP, it's time to learn how to use your benefits, including what you can buy and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
Your SNAP benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card each month. This card holds your food assistance funds electronically, replacing the old paper food stamp system. It's a dedicated account for your grocery benefits.
Using your EBT card is simple and works just like a debit card. At an approved store’s checkout, you swipe your card and enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN). The purchase amount is then deducted from your SNAP balance.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your EBT card is for purchasing household groceries. You can use your benefits to buy staple foods that help you prepare meals at home. Eligible items generally include:
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants that produce food
However, SNAP benefits cannot be used for certain items. This includes prepared foods that are hot at the point of sale and non-food products. Ineligible items include:
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Live animals (except shellfish, fish removed from water, and animals slaughtered prior to pick-up)
Hot foods
Non-food items like pet foods, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Staying on top of your SNAP benefits helps you budget effectively. This means tracking your balance and knowing when to expect deposits.
EBT Deposit Schedule in South Dakota
In South Dakota, SNAP benefits are deposited on the 10th of every month. This fixed date, which applies to everyone, helps you plan your grocery shopping and budget your monthly food expenses.
You can find your specific payment date in our South Dakota deposit schedule.
See South Dakota EBT deposit schedule for 2025
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your EBT balance through the online portal, the Benny app, by calling the number on your card, or by looking at an ATM or your last store receipt.
Our guide covers each method on how to check your EBT balance.
Check Your South Dakota EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time. It also offers cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco.
To get started, simply link your EBT card. After shopping, scan your receipt with the app to receive cashback on your SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more from your EBT benefits.
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In South Dakota, you must recertify your SNAP benefits periodically, usually every six to twelve months. The Department of Social Services will mail you a recertification packet when it's time to renew your eligibility.
You will need to provide documents verifying your current income, such as recent pay stubs, and expenses like rent or utility bills. Submitting your completed packet before the deadline is the best way to prevent a gap in your monthly assistance.
Special SNAP Services in South Dakota
South Dakota offers special SNAP services for urgent situations. These include expedited benefits for emergencies, disaster relief, and extra help during public health crises.
Expedited SNAP
Households with very little money can get benefits within seven days. You may qualify if your income and resources are extremely low. Apply through the regular SNAP application and request “expedited service” for faster processing.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
After a major disaster, D-SNAP helps you buy food if you lived in the affected area and had disaster-related costs. When activated, DSS provides application details. Check for current D-SNAP information on the USDA website.
Emergency SNAP Allotments (EA)
During federal emergencies, all SNAP households may automatically receive the maximum benefit amount. No separate application is needed as the extra funds are loaded onto your EBT card. Future updates will be posted on the state's waiver page.
Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT)
This program helped families buy groceries for children who lost access to school meals during the pandemic. Benefits were issued automatically to eligible students, so no application was required from parents. Keep your school information updated for any future programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, helps you and your family buy groceries. It provides monthly funds on an EBT card to help low-income households in South Dakota afford healthy food.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in South Dakota
To qualify for SNAP benefits in South Dakota, your household's gross monthly income must fall at or below set limits, which are based on 130% of the federal poverty level. The maximum benefit amounts are determined annually by the USDA’s Thrifty Food Plan.
Below are the South Dakota SNAP benefits 2025 income limits and maximum monthly payments based on household size, effective October 1, 2024.
Household Size 1
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,632
Maximum Benefit Amount: $291Household Size 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,215
Maximum Benefit Amount: $535Household Size 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,798
Maximum Benefit Amount: $766Household Size 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,380
Maximum Benefit Amount: $975Household Size 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,963
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,155Household Size 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,546
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,386Household Size 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,129
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,532Household Size 8
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,712
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,751
For each additional person in your household, add $583 to the gross income limit and $219 to the maximum benefit amount.
Because these figures can be updated, it's a good idea to check the official South Dakota SNAP page for the most current information.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in South Dakota
To determine your South Dakota SNAP benefits eligibility, you must meet several requirements related to your income, residency, and work status.
Income Limits: Your household's gross and net income must be below certain thresholds, and your countable resources must not exceed $2,750, or $4,250 if a member is elderly or disabled.
Residency Requirements: You must live in South Dakota and apply for benefits in the county where you reside.
Citizenship Status: You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen, and everyone applying needs to provide or apply for a Social Security number.
Work Requirements: SNAP benefits eligibility for South Dakota requires able-bodied adults to meet work requirements, including time limits for those aged 18-54 without dependents unless they are exempt.
Special Conditions: Households with elderly or disabled members are exempt from the gross income test, and deductions for expenses like shelter or child care can be applied.
You can find detailed rules and application forms on the South Dakota SNAP webpage.
Download Benny app to save on groceries
Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score
Download the app
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in South Dakota
You can apply for SNAP benefits in South Dakota online, in person, or by mail. Each method follows the same eligibility review.
Online Application
Applying online is often the fastest method. You can fill out the application and upload your documents directly through the South Dakota Department of Social Services website, completing the process from home.
Your household’s monthly income must fall within specific limits. Generally, gross income cannot exceed 130% of the federal poverty level. These income limits are effective from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.
1 person: $1,632 gross / $1,255 net
2 people: $2,215 gross / $1,704 net
4 people: $3,380 gross / $2,600 net
8 people: $5,712 gross / $4,214 net
In-Person Application
You can apply in person at a Department of Social Services office. To meet the residency requirement, you must file your application in the South Dakota county where you currently live.
Your household must also meet resource limits. Most households can have up to $2,750 in countable resources. If your household includes a member who is 60 or older or has a disability, the limit increases to $4,250.
By Mail
If you prefer a paper application, you can download the form from the DSS website or request one. After completing it, mail the application to your local DSS office for processing.
All applicants must provide a Social Security number and meet citizenship or qualified non-citizen status. Additionally, able-bodied adults without dependents must follow specific work requirements to maintain eligibility, such as working at least 80 hours per month.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in South Dakota
SNAP Information Line: Call 877-999-5612 for help with eligibility and benefit questions.
Hours of Operation: You can reach them on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time.
See South Dakota EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in South Dakota
Once you're approved for SNAP, it's time to learn how to use your benefits, including what you can buy and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
Your SNAP benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card each month. This card holds your food assistance funds electronically, replacing the old paper food stamp system. It's a dedicated account for your grocery benefits.
Using your EBT card is simple and works just like a debit card. At an approved store’s checkout, you swipe your card and enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN). The purchase amount is then deducted from your SNAP balance.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your EBT card is for purchasing household groceries. You can use your benefits to buy staple foods that help you prepare meals at home. Eligible items generally include:
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants that produce food
However, SNAP benefits cannot be used for certain items. This includes prepared foods that are hot at the point of sale and non-food products. Ineligible items include:
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Live animals (except shellfish, fish removed from water, and animals slaughtered prior to pick-up)
Hot foods
Non-food items like pet foods, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Staying on top of your SNAP benefits helps you budget effectively. This means tracking your balance and knowing when to expect deposits.
EBT Deposit Schedule in South Dakota
In South Dakota, SNAP benefits are deposited on the 10th of every month. This fixed date, which applies to everyone, helps you plan your grocery shopping and budget your monthly food expenses.
You can find your specific payment date in our South Dakota deposit schedule.
See South Dakota EBT deposit schedule for 2025
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your EBT balance through the online portal, the Benny app, by calling the number on your card, or by looking at an ATM or your last store receipt.
Our guide covers each method on how to check your EBT balance.
Check Your South Dakota EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time. It also offers cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco.
To get started, simply link your EBT card. After shopping, scan your receipt with the app to receive cashback on your SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more from your EBT benefits.
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In South Dakota, you must recertify your SNAP benefits periodically, usually every six to twelve months. The Department of Social Services will mail you a recertification packet when it's time to renew your eligibility.
You will need to provide documents verifying your current income, such as recent pay stubs, and expenses like rent or utility bills. Submitting your completed packet before the deadline is the best way to prevent a gap in your monthly assistance.
Special SNAP Services in South Dakota
South Dakota offers special SNAP services for urgent situations. These include expedited benefits for emergencies, disaster relief, and extra help during public health crises.
Expedited SNAP
Households with very little money can get benefits within seven days. You may qualify if your income and resources are extremely low. Apply through the regular SNAP application and request “expedited service” for faster processing.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
After a major disaster, D-SNAP helps you buy food if you lived in the affected area and had disaster-related costs. When activated, DSS provides application details. Check for current D-SNAP information on the USDA website.
Emergency SNAP Allotments (EA)
During federal emergencies, all SNAP households may automatically receive the maximum benefit amount. No separate application is needed as the extra funds are loaded onto your EBT card. Future updates will be posted on the state's waiver page.
Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT)
This program helped families buy groceries for children who lost access to school meals during the pandemic. Benefits were issued automatically to eligible students, so no application was required from parents. Keep your school information updated for any future programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, helps you and your family buy groceries. It provides monthly funds on an EBT card to help low-income households in South Dakota afford healthy food.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in South Dakota
To qualify for SNAP benefits in South Dakota, your household's gross monthly income must fall at or below set limits, which are based on 130% of the federal poverty level. The maximum benefit amounts are determined annually by the USDA’s Thrifty Food Plan.
Below are the South Dakota SNAP benefits 2025 income limits and maximum monthly payments based on household size, effective October 1, 2024.
Household Size 1
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,632
Maximum Benefit Amount: $291Household Size 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,215
Maximum Benefit Amount: $535Household Size 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,798
Maximum Benefit Amount: $766Household Size 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,380
Maximum Benefit Amount: $975Household Size 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,963
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,155Household Size 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,546
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,386Household Size 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,129
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,532Household Size 8
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,712
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,751
For each additional person in your household, add $583 to the gross income limit and $219 to the maximum benefit amount.
Because these figures can be updated, it's a good idea to check the official South Dakota SNAP page for the most current information.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in South Dakota
To determine your South Dakota SNAP benefits eligibility, you must meet several requirements related to your income, residency, and work status.
Income Limits: Your household's gross and net income must be below certain thresholds, and your countable resources must not exceed $2,750, or $4,250 if a member is elderly or disabled.
Residency Requirements: You must live in South Dakota and apply for benefits in the county where you reside.
Citizenship Status: You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen, and everyone applying needs to provide or apply for a Social Security number.
Work Requirements: SNAP benefits eligibility for South Dakota requires able-bodied adults to meet work requirements, including time limits for those aged 18-54 without dependents unless they are exempt.
Special Conditions: Households with elderly or disabled members are exempt from the gross income test, and deductions for expenses like shelter or child care can be applied.
You can find detailed rules and application forms on the South Dakota SNAP webpage.
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How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in South Dakota
You can apply for SNAP benefits in South Dakota online, in person, or by mail. Each method follows the same eligibility review.
Online Application
Applying online is often the fastest method. You can fill out the application and upload your documents directly through the South Dakota Department of Social Services website, completing the process from home.
Your household’s monthly income must fall within specific limits. Generally, gross income cannot exceed 130% of the federal poverty level. These income limits are effective from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.
1 person: $1,632 gross / $1,255 net
2 people: $2,215 gross / $1,704 net
4 people: $3,380 gross / $2,600 net
8 people: $5,712 gross / $4,214 net
In-Person Application
You can apply in person at a Department of Social Services office. To meet the residency requirement, you must file your application in the South Dakota county where you currently live.
Your household must also meet resource limits. Most households can have up to $2,750 in countable resources. If your household includes a member who is 60 or older or has a disability, the limit increases to $4,250.
By Mail
If you prefer a paper application, you can download the form from the DSS website or request one. After completing it, mail the application to your local DSS office for processing.
All applicants must provide a Social Security number and meet citizenship or qualified non-citizen status. Additionally, able-bodied adults without dependents must follow specific work requirements to maintain eligibility, such as working at least 80 hours per month.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in South Dakota
SNAP Information Line: Call 877-999-5612 for help with eligibility and benefit questions.
Hours of Operation: You can reach them on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time.
See South Dakota EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in South Dakota
Once you're approved for SNAP, it's time to learn how to use your benefits, including what you can buy and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
Your SNAP benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card each month. This card holds your food assistance funds electronically, replacing the old paper food stamp system. It's a dedicated account for your grocery benefits.
Using your EBT card is simple and works just like a debit card. At an approved store’s checkout, you swipe your card and enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN). The purchase amount is then deducted from your SNAP balance.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your EBT card is for purchasing household groceries. You can use your benefits to buy staple foods that help you prepare meals at home. Eligible items generally include:
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants that produce food
However, SNAP benefits cannot be used for certain items. This includes prepared foods that are hot at the point of sale and non-food products. Ineligible items include:
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Live animals (except shellfish, fish removed from water, and animals slaughtered prior to pick-up)
Hot foods
Non-food items like pet foods, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Staying on top of your SNAP benefits helps you budget effectively. This means tracking your balance and knowing when to expect deposits.
EBT Deposit Schedule in South Dakota
In South Dakota, SNAP benefits are deposited on the 10th of every month. This fixed date, which applies to everyone, helps you plan your grocery shopping and budget your monthly food expenses.
You can find your specific payment date in our South Dakota deposit schedule.
See South Dakota EBT deposit schedule for 2025
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your EBT balance through the online portal, the Benny app, by calling the number on your card, or by looking at an ATM or your last store receipt.
Our guide covers each method on how to check your EBT balance.
Check Your South Dakota EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time. It also offers cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco.
To get started, simply link your EBT card. After shopping, scan your receipt with the app to receive cashback on your SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more from your EBT benefits.
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In South Dakota, you must recertify your SNAP benefits periodically, usually every six to twelve months. The Department of Social Services will mail you a recertification packet when it's time to renew your eligibility.
You will need to provide documents verifying your current income, such as recent pay stubs, and expenses like rent or utility bills. Submitting your completed packet before the deadline is the best way to prevent a gap in your monthly assistance.
Special SNAP Services in South Dakota
South Dakota offers special SNAP services for urgent situations. These include expedited benefits for emergencies, disaster relief, and extra help during public health crises.
Expedited SNAP
Households with very little money can get benefits within seven days. You may qualify if your income and resources are extremely low. Apply through the regular SNAP application and request “expedited service” for faster processing.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
After a major disaster, D-SNAP helps you buy food if you lived in the affected area and had disaster-related costs. When activated, DSS provides application details. Check for current D-SNAP information on the USDA website.
Emergency SNAP Allotments (EA)
During federal emergencies, all SNAP households may automatically receive the maximum benefit amount. No separate application is needed as the extra funds are loaded onto your EBT card. Future updates will be posted on the state's waiver page.
Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT)
This program helped families buy groceries for children who lost access to school meals during the pandemic. Benefits were issued automatically to eligible students, so no application was required from parents. Keep your school information updated for any future programs.
