Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in South Dakota (2025 Authority Hub)

Last updated: August 2025

---

Quick Help Box (keep this handy)

• Mental health crisis (24/7): Call 988, then press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line, or chat at the Veterans Crisis Line website (confidential and free). Source: Veterans Affairs.
  • Veterans Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
• Homeless today or at risk: Call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-424-3838, or visit VA Homeless Programs. Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
  • VA Homeless Services: https://www.va.gov/homeless/
• Find local VA care: Sioux Falls VA Health Care System and VA Black Hills Health Care System locations and services. Source: VA.
  • Sioux Falls VA Health Care: https://www.va.gov/sioux-falls-health-care/
  • VA Black Hills Health Care: https://www.va.gov/black-hills-health-care/
• Get one-on-one claims help in your county or tribe: Contact the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs (SDDVA) to find your County or Tribal Veterans Service Officer (VSO). Source: SDDVA.
  • SDDVA home page (find your VSO): https://vetaffairs.sd.gov
• General VA help line: 800-698-2411 (MyVA411) or visit VA Contact Us. Source: VA.
  • MyVA411: https://www.va.gov/contact-us/
• South Dakota aging help and in-home services: Dakota at Home (information, referrals, and options counseling). Source: South Dakota Department of Human Services.
  • Dakota at Home (LTSS): https://dhs.sd.gov/ltss/dakotaathome.aspx
• 2-1-1 Helpline Center (South Dakota): Dial 211 for local resources (food, shelter, transportation, counseling). Source: Helpline Center.
  • South Dakota 211 Helpline Center: https://www.helplinecenter.org/2-1-1/

---

Emergency help first: what to do right now

• If you are in immediate danger or medical distress, call 911.
• Mental health crisis or suicidal thoughts: Call 988 (press 1), text 838255, or chat via the Veterans Crisis Line. Source: Veterans Affairs.
  • Veterans Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
• Homeless tonight or about to lose housing: Call 877-424-3838 (National Call Center for Homeless Veterans) to connect with emergency shelter, VA homeless programs, and case managers. Source: VA.
  • VA Homeless Programs: https://www.va.gov/homeless/
• Domestic violence or abuse: You can call 211 for confidential local referrals. If you feel unsafe, call 911. For VA support related to Military Sexual Trauma (MST), see VA MST Support. Source: VA.
  • MST Support: https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/msthome.asp

Reality check:

• It may take time to get a bed, appointment, or counselor. If one door is full, ask for another location. Keep a record of who you spoke with and when.
• If travel is the barrier, ask about transportation help (VA Beneficiary Travel, DAV rides). Sources: VA, DAV.
  • VA Travel Pay: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/
  • DAV Transportation Network: https://www.dav.org/veterans/dav-transportation-network/

---

How to use this guide

• This guide focuses on benefits and resources for senior veterans in South Dakota, including federal VA benefits, state programs, and local help.
• It links to official sources so you can apply or verify details.
• It includes tips for specific groups, like disabled veterans, women, LGBTQ+ veterans, Native veterans, and rural veterans.

---

At-a-glance: major benefits for senior veterans in South Dakota

The table below gives a quick overview. Details follow in each section.

Sources:

• VA health care systems: https://www.va.gov/sioux-falls-health-care/ and https://www.va.gov/black-hills-health-care/
• SD Dept. of Revenue property tax relief: https://dor.sd.gov
• SDDVA and SD Veterans Home: https://vetaffairs.sd.gov
• VA pension and A&A: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
• VA disability: https://www.va.gov/disability/
• VA homelessness programs: https://www.va.gov/homeless/
• SD Housing Development Authority: https://www.sdhda.org/
• SD SNAP: https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/snap/
• Feeding South Dakota: https://www.feedingsouthdakota.org/
• VA travel pay: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/
• DAV transportation: https://www.dav.org/veterans/dav-transportation-network/
• SD public transit: https://dot.sd.gov/programs-services/transit
• SD State Veterans Cemetery: https://sdsvc.sd.gov/
• VA Burials & Memorials: https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/

---

Get claims help: County & Tribal VSOs and accredited organizations

• County/Tribal Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) can help you file VA disability, pension (Aid & Attendance), survivor claims, discharge upgrades, and more. They know local paperwork and can meet in person.
  • Find your local VSO via the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs. Source: SDDVA. https://vetaffairs.sd.gov
• National veterans organizations also offer free claims help:
  • Disabled American Veterans (DAV): https://www.dav.org/
  • Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW): https://www.vfw.org/assistance/va-claims-separation-benefits
  • The American Legion: https://www.legion.org/veteransbenefits

Tip: Bring your DD214, medical records, and any decision letters. If you do not have your DD214, request it from the National Archives. Source: National Archives.

• Request military records (DD214): https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records

---

Health care: VA care in South Dakota, Medicare, TRICARE, long-term care

VA medical centers and clinics

• Sioux Falls VA Health Care System: Primary and specialty care, mental health, pharmacy, prosthetics, telehealth, and Vet Center counseling (separate from VA medical centers). Source: VA.
  • System page: https://www.va.gov/sioux-falls-health-care/
  • Sioux Falls Vet Center: https://www.va.gov/sioux-falls-vet-center/
• VA Black Hills Health Care System (Fort Meade/Sturgis and Hot Springs campuses): Inpatient and outpatient care, mental health, long-term care, telehealth, and community clinics. Source: VA.
  • System page: https://www.va.gov/black-hills-health-care/
  • Rapid City Vet Center: https://www.va.gov/rapid-city-vet-center/
• Find all VA locations and Community-Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs) near you. Source: VA.
  • VA facility locator: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/

Enrollment and eligibility:

• Apply online, by phone, or with help from a VSO. Source: VA.
  • Apply for VA health care: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
• If you live far from VA or VA cannot provide care timely, you may qualify for VA Community Care (care in your local community). Source: VA.
  • VA Community Care: https://www.va.gov/communitycare/

Telehealth if you live rural:

• VA offers video visits and remote monitoring. If internet is a problem, ask about VA options and devices. Source: VA.
  • VA Telehealth: https://telehealth.va.gov/

Reality check:

• Wait times and specialty availability differ between Sioux Falls and Black Hills. If one location can’t schedule soon, ask your VA team about Community Care or receiving care at the other campus.

Medicare and TRICARE alongside VA

• Many senior veterans use both VA and Medicare. VA care is for VA-authorized services; Medicare covers care from Medicare providers. Having Medicare gives you options if you live far from a VA clinic. Sources: Medicare, VA.
  • Medicare basics: https://www.medicare.gov/
  • Using VA and other insurance: https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/
• Military retirees 65+ may have TRICARE For Life with Medicare Part A and B. Source: TRICARE.
  • TRICARE For Life: https://tricare.mil/tfl

Tip: Tell each provider (VA, Medicare/TRICARE doctors) about all medications and conditions so care is coordinated. Use My HealtheVet to access your VA records. Source: VA.

• My HealtheVet: https://www.myhealth.va.gov/

Long-term care, in-home help, and caregivers

• South Dakota Veterans Home (Hot Springs): State-run long-term care for eligible veterans and spouses. Contact SDDVA for admissions and eligibility. Source: SDDVA.
  • SDDVA home page: https://vetaffairs.sd.gov
• VA long-term care: Community Living Centers, contracted nursing homes, adult day health care, and in-home care (depending on your VA eligibility and clinical need). Source: VA.
  • VA long-term care overview: https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/
• South Dakota Long-Term Services & Supports (LTSS): In-home services, case management, and options counseling via Dakota at Home. Source: SD DHS.
  • Dakota at Home: https://dhs.sd.gov/ltss/dakotaathome.aspx
• VA Caregiver Support Program: Coaching, resources, and in some cases a stipend for family caregivers. Source: VA.
  • VA Caregiver Support: https://www.caregiver.va.gov/

---

Income, disability, and pensions (including Aid & Attendance)

• VA disability compensation: Monthly, tax-free payment for service-connected disabilities. You can apply to increase your rating if conditions have worsened. Source: VA.
  • VA Disability: https://www.va.gov/disability/
• VA pension with Aid & Attendance (A&A) or Housebound: For wartime veterans with limited income and assets who need help with daily activities or are largely homebound. Surviving spouses may also qualify. Source: VA.
  • VA Pension and A&A: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
• Social Security retirement and disability (SSDI/SSI): Many senior veterans receive Social Security; SSI can boost income for very low-income seniors. Source: SSA.
  • Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/

Reality check:

• A&A and pension decisions require income and medical need reviews. Gather medical statements (doctor notes about help needed with bathing, dressing, eating) and financial documentation.

---

State tax and property relief (South Dakota)

South Dakota does not have a state individual income tax. Source: South Dakota Department of Revenue.

• SD Dept. of Revenue – Individuals: https://dor.sd.gov

Property tax relief programs:

• Assessment Freeze for the Elderly & Disabled: Helps eligible homeowners by freezing the assessed value of their home for property tax purposes, subject to income and other criteria. Source: SD Dept. of Revenue.
• Disabled Veteran Property Tax Relief: South Dakota provides a significant property tax benefit for qualifying disabled veterans on their owner-occupied home. Exact benefit details and eligibility requirements are set by state law and can change; check the current rules. Source: SD Dept. of Revenue.

Start here for both: SD Department of Revenue – Property Tax Relief Programs. Source: SD DOR.

• Property Tax Relief Programs: https://dor.sd.gov

Tip: Apply early through your county auditor; deadlines and income limits vary by program and year.

---

Housing, utilities, and home repairs

• If homeless or at risk: Contact VA Homeless Programs or call 877-424-3838. Programs include:
  • Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF): Short-term help with rent/deposits and case management through local non-profits. Source: VA.
    • SSVF overview and local providers: https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/
  • HUD-VASH: Long-term rental vouchers with VA case management for eligible homeless veterans. Source: VA.
    • HUD-VASH: https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash/
• South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA): Affordable rental search, Housing Choice Vouchers administered by local housing authorities, and homeowner resources. Source: SDHDA.
  • SDHDA: https://www.sdhda.org/
• Energy help:
  • Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP): Helps pay winter heating bills. Source: SD DSS.
    • LIEAP: https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/energyassistance/
  • Weatherization Assistance: Health/safety and efficiency upgrades to reduce energy costs. Source: SDHDA.
    • Weatherization: https://www.sdhda.org/
• Home modifications for safety:
  • VA may offer Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA), and other grants (SAH/SHA) for certain service-connected disabilities. Source: VA.
    • Housing grants for disabled Veterans: https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/disability-housing-grants/

Reality check:

• Emergency rental help often has waiting lists. If denied, ask for written reasons and appeal if appropriate. Keep all paperwork.

---

Food and nutrition

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Monthly benefits for groceries. Seniors can use standard deduction and certain expense deductions. Apply online or at your local DSS office. Source: SD DSS.
  • SD SNAP: https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/snap/
• Senior food boxes (Commodity Supplemental Food Program, CSFP): Monthly box for adults 60+ who meet income limits, distributed by Feeding South Dakota and partners. Source: Feeding South Dakota.
  • CSFP/Senior Boxes: https://www.feedingsouthdakota.org/our-programs/senior-boxes
• Meals on Wheels and senior meals: Call Dakota at Home or 211 to find meal sites and home-delivered meals. Sources: SD DHS, 211.
  • Dakota at Home: https://dhs.sd.gov/ltss/dakotaathome.aspx
  • 211 Helpline: https://www.helplinecenter.org/2-1-1/

---

Transportation and mobility

Sources:

• VA Travel Pay: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/
• DAV rides: https://www.dav.org/veterans/dav-transportation-network/
• SD public transit providers: https://dot.sd.gov/programs-services/transit
• SD Driver Licensing: https://dps.sd.gov/driver-licensing

Tip: For rural rides, book at least 24–72 hours ahead. Confirm pickup windows and return trips.

---

South Dakota-specific veteran perks and documents

• “Veteran” indicator on South Dakota driver’s license/ID: Add a veteran identifier by presenting proof of honorable service. Check the Driver Licensing site for current steps. Source: SD Department of Public Safety.
  • SD Driver Licensing: https://dps.sd.gov/driver-licensing
• State Veterans Bonus: South Dakota offers a bonus for eligible service during specified periods. Check SDDVA for current rules and application. Source: SDDVA.
  • SDDVA: https://vetaffairs.sd.gov
• Hunting, fishing, and parks: Reduced or special licenses for qualifying disabled veterans and other military-related benefits. Source: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks.
  • GFP Military & Veterans benefits: https://gfp.sd.gov/veterans-military/
• State Veterans Cemetery (Sioux Falls): Burial for eligible veterans and dependents; fees and eligibility differ for spouses. Source: State of South Dakota.
  • South Dakota State Veterans Cemetery: https://sdsvc.sd.gov/
• Discharge papers and records:
  • Request DD214/military records (free): National Archives eVetRecs. Source: National Archives.
    • Request records: https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records

---

Benefits comparison tables

Health coverage and long-term care options

Sources:

• VA systems: https://www.va.gov/sioux-falls-health-care/ and https://www.va.gov/black-hills-health-care/
• Medicare: https://www.medicare.gov/
• TRICARE For Life: https://tricare.mil/tfl
• SDDVA: https://vetaffairs.sd.gov

Property tax and housing supports

Sources:

• SD Dept. of Revenue: https://dor.sd.gov
• LIEAP: https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/energyassistance/
• SDHDA: https://www.sdhda.org/

Income supports and cash benefits

Sources:

• VA Disability: https://www.va.gov/disability/
• VA Pension & A&A: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
• SSA: https://www.ssa.gov/
• SD Dept. of Revenue: https://dor.sd.gov

---

How to apply: step-by-step

VA disability compensation (new or increase)

1. Get help from a County/Tribal VSO or an accredited organization if possible. Source: SDDVA.
   • SDDVA: https://vetaffairs.sd.gov
2. Gather evidence: DD214, medical records, nexus letters (if available).
3. Apply online or by mail (VA Form 21-526EZ). Source: VA.
   • Apply for disability: https://www.va.gov/disability/how-to-file-claim/
4. Attend exams (C&P) if scheduled. Keep copies of everything.
5. If denied or under-rated, consider a Higher-Level Review or Board appeal. Source: VA.
   • Decision reviews: https://www.va.gov/decision-reviews/

VA pension with Aid & Attendance

1. Confirm wartime service, income/assets, and care needs. Source: VA.
2. Collect medical statements detailing assistance needed (bathing, dressing, etc.).
3. Apply online or with VA Form 21P-527EZ (veteran) or 21P-534EZ (surviving spouse). Source: VA.
   • Pension and A&A: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
4. Report out-of-pocket care costs; keep receipts.

South Dakota property tax relief

1. Contact your county auditor about the Assessment Freeze or Disabled Veteran program. Source: SD Dept. of Revenue.
2. Confirm income, age/disability, and residency requirements.
3. Submit required forms before the deadline. Source: SD DOR.
   • Property Tax Relief Programs: https://dor.sd.gov

SNAP (food assistance) in South Dakota

1. Check eligibility and prepare ID, address, and income proof. Source: SD DSS.
2. Apply online, by mail, or in person. Source: SD DSS.
   • SNAP info and application: https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/snap/
3. Complete an interview and submit requested verifications.

LIEAP (energy assistance)

1. Apply as early as possible before winter. Source: SD DSS.
   • LIEAP: https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/energyassistance/
2. Provide income, utility, and household information.

---

Women veterans, LGBTQ+ senior veterans, disabled seniors, tribal veterans, and rural veterans

Women veterans

• Women Veterans Program Managers at Sioux Falls and Black Hills help you navigate women’s primary care, mammography referrals, gynecology, and MST-related care. Start with your VA medical center or Women Veterans Health. Source: VA.
  • Women Veterans Health: https://www.womenshealth.va.gov/
• For MST care (counseling and related services) you do not need a service-connected rating. Source: VA.
  • MST Support: https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/msthome.asp

Tip: Ask your VA to connect you with the Women Veterans Program Manager for scheduling and coordination.

LGBTQ+ senior veterans

• VA provides inclusive, respectful health care to LGBTQ+ veterans, including gender-affirming support services permitted by policy, mental health, and primary care. Contact your VA facility or see VA LGBTQ+ Health. Source: VA.
  • LGBTQ+ Veteran Care: https://www.patientcare.va.gov/LGBT/

Reality check: Some services have specific eligibility rules. Discuss options confidentially with your VA primary care team.

Disabled senior veterans

• Property tax relief programs exist for qualifying disabled veterans. Check current rules at the SD Dept. of Revenue. Source: SD DOR.
  • Property tax relief: https://dor.sd.gov
• VA Aid & Attendance can help pay for caregivers or assisted living when medically necessary. Source: VA.
  • A&A: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
• Housing adaptations (HISA/SAH/SHA) may help make your home safer and more accessible. Source: VA.
  • Disability housing grants: https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/disability-housing-grants/

Tribal-specific resources (Native veterans)

• Many South Dakota veterans are members of tribal nations. You can work with a Tribal Veterans Service Officer (contact via SDDVA) and use Indian Health Service along with VA, depending on eligibility. Sources: SDDVA, IHS.
  • SDDVA: https://vetaffairs.sd.gov
  • IHS Great Plains Area: https://www.ihs.gov/greatplains/
• VA Office of Tribal Government Relations can help coordinate benefits. Source: VA.
  • VA Tribal Government Relations: https://www.va.gov/tribalgovernment/
• Native American Direct Loan (NADL): VA direct home loans for eligible Native American veterans on federal trust land. Source: VA.
  • NADL: https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/home-loans/loan-types/native-american-direct-loan/

Tip: Ask VA and IHS about care coordination agreements; some services can be coordinated between systems.

Rural senior veterans (limited access)

• Use VA telehealth when travel is hard. Ask your VA team about video visits, remote monitoring, and loaned devices. Source: VA.
  • VA Telehealth: https://telehealth.va.gov/
• Consider Community Care if the nearest VA can’t schedule timely care or it’s too far for required services. Source: VA.
  • VA Community Care: https://www.va.gov/communitycare/
• For connectivity: The federal Lifeline program discounts phone/internet for eligible low-income households (note: the separate ACP program’s status may change; check FCC for updates). Sources: USAC, FCC.
  • Lifeline: https://www.lifelinesupport.org/
  • FCC ACP status: https://www.fcc.gov/acp

---

Resources by region in South Dakota

East River (Sioux Falls region):

• Sioux Falls VA Health Care System: location, clinics, and services. Source: VA.
  • Sioux Falls VA: https://www.va.gov/sioux-falls-health-care/
• Sioux Falls Vet Center (readjustment counseling): confidential counseling for combat veterans, MST survivors, and their families. Source: VA.
  • Sioux Falls Vet Center: https://www.va.gov/sioux-falls-vet-center/
• Local shelter and supportive housing (examples; verify availability):
  • St. Francis House (Sioux Falls): transitional housing and support. Source: St. Francis House.
    • St. Francis House: https://stfrancishouse.com/
  • Bishop Dudley Hospitality House (Sioux Falls): day and overnight emergency services. Source: Bishop Dudley.
    • Bishop Dudley House: https://bdhh.org/

West River (Rapid City/Black Hills):

• VA Black Hills Health Care System (Fort Meade/Sturgis and Hot Springs; Rapid City outpatient services). Source: VA.
  • VA Black Hills: https://www.va.gov/black-hills-health-care/
• Rapid City Vet Center: counseling and outreach. Source: VA.
  • Rapid City Vet Center: https://www.va.gov/rapid-city-vet-center/
• Local shelter and veteran housing services (examples; verify availability):
  • Cornerstone Rescue Mission – Veterans programs (Rapid City). Source: Cornerstone.
    • Cornerstone Veterans Programs: https://cornerstonemission.org/

Central and Northern SD:

• Use the VA facility locator for CBOCs in places like Aberdeen, Pierre, Watertown, Winner, and others. Source: VA.
  • VA facility locator: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/
• For rides across long distances, check public transit links and call 211 for local options. Sources: SD DOT, 211.
  • SD Transit: https://dot.sd.gov/programs-services/transit
  • 211 Helpline: https://www.helplinecenter.org/2-1-1/

Statewide:

• SDDVA (find County/Tribal VSOs, state programs, cemetery, veterans home). Source: SDDVA.
  • SDDVA: https://vetaffairs.sd.gov
• South Dakota State Veterans Cemetery (Sioux Falls). Source: State of SD.
  • Cemetery: https://sdsvc.sd.gov/

---

Reality checks, warnings, and tips

• Beware of fees: Accredited claims help is free. If someone asks for large fees to file a VA claim, walk away. Verify accreditation. Source: VA.
  • VA accreditation search: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp
• Deadlines matter: Appeals and property tax applications have strict timelines. Mark your calendar and keep copies.
• Waiting lists: Housing vouchers, long-term care, and some specialty clinics have wait times. Get on the list early and keep contact info updated.
• Keep your records: Save a folder with DD214, VA letters, medical notes, and receipts. It speeds up benefits and appeals.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I find my County or Tribal Veterans Service Officer in South Dakota?

• Go to the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs site and use their “find your VSO” resource or call their main office for guidance. Source: SDDVA.
  • SDDVA: https://vetaffairs.sd.gov

2. Can I use both VA and Medicare in South Dakota?

• Yes. Many seniors use VA for some care and Medicare for local providers. Having Medicare increases options, especially if you live far from a VA clinic. Source: Medicare, VA.
  • Medicare: https://www.medicare.gov/
  • VA health benefits overview: https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/

3. I need help with bathing and dressing. What benefit should I look at?

• Ask about VA Pension with Aid & Attendance (or Housebound), which can help pay for caregivers or assisted living if you meet income and medical need rules. Source: VA.
  • A&A: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/

4. Is there property tax relief for disabled veterans in South Dakota?

• Yes. South Dakota offers property tax relief for qualifying disabled veterans. Check the Department of Revenue for current rules and apply through your county. Source: SD DOR.
  • Property Tax Relief Programs: https://dor.sd.gov

5. How do I get a “Veteran” label on my South Dakota driver’s license?

• Bring proof of honorable service to Driver Licensing. Check current requirements before you go. Source: SD DPS.
  • SD Driver Licensing: https://dps.sd.gov/driver-licensing

6. Where can I get a free ride to my VA appointment?

• Ask your VA about Beneficiary Travel reimbursement and local DAV Transportation Network vans. Source: VA, DAV.
  • Travel Pay: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/
  • DAV rides: https://www.dav.org/veterans/dav-transportation-network/

7. I’m homeless (or about to be). Who do I call tonight?

• Call 877-424-3838 (National Call Center for Homeless Veterans) for immediate help and referrals to SSVF/HUD-VASH providers. Source: VA.
  • VA Homeless Programs: https://www.va.gov/homeless/

8. Do South Dakota veterans get discounts for hunting, fishing, or parks?

• South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks offers benefits for veterans and disabled veterans. Check the current list and how to qualify. Source: SD GFP.
  • GFP veterans benefits: https://gfp.sd.gov/veterans-military/

9. Where can I get counseling that isn’t inside the hospital?

• Vet Centers in Sioux Falls and Rapid City offer confidential counseling separate from the VA medical centers. Source: VA.
  • Vet Centers: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/?facilityType=vet_center

10. How do I replace my DD214?

• Request service records and DD214 online at the National Archives (free). Source: National Archives.
  • Request records: https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records

11. How do I apply for SNAP as a veteran in South Dakota?

• Apply online or in person with the Department of Social Services. Bring ID and income proof. Source: SD DSS.
  • SNAP: https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/snap/

12. Can the South Dakota Veterans Home take my loved one?

• Admissions depend on eligibility and openings. Contact SDDVA for current admission criteria and wait times. Source: SDDVA.
  • SDDVA: https://vetaffairs.sd.gov

13. Does South Dakota tax my military retirement?

• South Dakota has no state individual income tax. Source: SD Dept. of Revenue.
  • SD DOR – Individuals: https://dor.sd.gov

14. Are there special VA programs for Native veterans in South Dakota?

• Yes. Work with a Tribal VSO and review VA’s Native American Direct Loan and Tribal Relations resources. Sources: VA, SDDVA.
  • NADL: https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/home-loans/loan-types/native-american-direct-loan/
  • VA Tribal Relations: https://www.va.gov/tribalgovernment/

15. I live far from a VA clinic. Can I see a local doctor?

• Possibly. If you meet VA Community Care criteria (access, distance, or timeliness), VA can refer you to local providers. Source: VA.
  • Community Care: https://www.va.gov/communitycare/

---

Helpful links and contacts (organized)

Health care and mental health:

• Sioux Falls VA Health Care System: https://www.va.gov/sioux-falls-health-care/
• VA Black Hills Health Care System: https://www.va.gov/black-hills-health-care/
• VA facility locator (clinics/CBOCs): https://www.va.gov/find-locations/
• Vet Centers: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/?facilityType=vet_center
• Veterans Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
• VA Telehealth: https://telehealth.va.gov/

Income and benefits:

• VA Disability: https://www.va.gov/disability/
• VA Pension with Aid & Attendance: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
• Decision reviews/appeals: https://www.va.gov/decision-reviews/
• Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/

State programs:

• South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs (VSOs, bonuses, veterans home): https://vetaffairs.sd.gov
• SD Dept. of Revenue – Property tax relief: https://dor.sd.gov
• SD DSS – SNAP: https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/snap/
• LIEAP: https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/energyassistance/
• SD Housing Development Authority: https://www.sdhda.org/
• SD Driver Licensing: https://dps.sd.gov/driver-licensing
• SD Game, Fish and Parks – Veterans: https://gfp.sd.gov/veterans-military/
• Dakota at Home (LTSS): https://dhs.sd.gov/ltss/dakotaathome.aspx
• 211 Helpline Center: https://www.helplinecenter.org/2-1-1/

Housing and homelessness:

• VA Homeless Programs: https://www.va.gov/homeless/
• SSVF: https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/
• HUD-VASH: https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash/
• SDHDA affordable housing: https://www.sdhda.org/

Transportation:

• VA Travel Pay: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/
• DAV Transportation: https://www.dav.org/veterans/dav-transportation-network/
• SD Public Transit providers: https://dot.sd.gov/programs-services/transit

Burial and records:

• South Dakota State Veterans Cemetery: https://sdsvc.sd.gov/
• VA Burials & Memorials: https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/
• National Archives (DD214): https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records

Legal help (civil matters):

• Dakota Plains Legal Services (multiple offices serving SD and tribal communities): https://www.dpls.org/
• 211 Helpline can also refer to local legal aid: https://www.helplinecenter.org/2-1-1/

---

Short checklists

VA medical enrollment checklist:

• DD214 and photo ID
• Health insurance info (Medicare/TRICARE if any)
• Address and phone
• Apply online or at a VA facility: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/

Aid & Attendance checklist:

• Proof of wartime service
• Medical statement about daily living assistance needed
• Income/assets and out-of-pocket care costs
• Application: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/

Property tax relief checklist:

• Proof of age/disability or disabled veteran status (as applicable)
• Proof of income and residency
• Apply with county auditor; program info: https://dor.sd.gov

---

Example scenarios

• A 74-year-old Vietnam veteran in Watertown needs help bathing and can’t drive in winter. Action plan: Apply for VA Pension with Aid & Attendance; enroll in VA care if not already; call Dakota at Home for in-home service options; sign up with local public transit for rides; ask VA about Beneficiary Travel eligibility. Sources: VA Pension A&A; Dakota at Home; SD Transit; VA Travel Pay.
• A 68-year-old Gulf War veteran near Pine Ridge worries about rising property taxes. Action plan: Meet with a Tribal or County VSO; ask the county auditor about the Assessment Freeze and Disabled Veteran property tax relief; if the home needs safety upgrades for mobility, review VA HISA/SAH grants. Sources: SDDVA; SD Dept. of Revenue; VA housing grants.

---

Three important realities in South Dakota

1. Distance is real. Weather, road conditions, and long drives make care harder. Use telehealth, schedule morning appointments, and ask about Community Care when appropriate. Sources: VA Telehealth; VA Community Care.
2. Paperwork takes time. Benefits like A&A or property tax relief require forms and proof. Start early, keep copies, and follow up.
3. No state income tax helps, but housing and utilities still strain budgets in winter. Apply for LIEAP early and consider Weatherization to cut bills. Sources: SD DSS; SDHDA.

---

Data and sources note

For the most up-to-date program rules or amounts (like property tax exemptions, income limits, and copays), always check the official pages linked in each section:

• SDDVA: https://vetaffairs.sd.gov
• SD Department of Revenue (property tax): https://dor.sd.gov
• SD DSS (SNAP, LIEAP): https://dss.sd.gov
• SDHDA (housing/weatherization): https://www.sdhda.org
• VA: https://www.va.gov

---

Disclaimer

Program details, eligibility, dollar amounts, and contact information can change. Always verify the latest information directly with the agency or program using the official links in this guide. This guide is for general information and is not legal, financial, or medical advice.

---

About This Guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.

Our Commitment to You:

• Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
• Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
• Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.

• Last Updated: August 2025
• Sources Verified: August 2025
• Next Review: February 2026

If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.