South Dakota Senior Assistance Programs, Benefits, and Grants (2025)

Key Senior Statistics in South Dakota (65 and over)
Senior Population: 169,586 (18.4%) Senior Population: 169,586 (18.4%)
Male: 47.3% Male: 47.3%
Female: 52.7% Female: 52.7%
Median Age: 72.9 Median Age: 72.9
Disability: 30.4% Disability: 30.4%
With Social Security Income: 90.1% With Social Security Income: 90.1%
With Food Stamp/SNAP Benefits: 5.9% With Food Stamp/SNAP Benefits: 5.9%
Below 100% of the Poverty Level: 8.8% Below 100% of the Poverty Level: 8.8%
Data Source: Data Source:
Data is taken from American Community Survey 2023. Please check our detailed page about Senior Statistics of South Dakota for more data and information.

Senior Benefits and Assistance Programs in South Dakota (Authority Hub Guide)

Last updated: August 2025

Key Takeaways

  • Start with Dakota at Home (South Dakota’s Aging & Disability Resource Center) at 1-833-663-9673. They do free, personalized help and connect you to state and local programs.
  • For urgent bills, check Low Income Energy Assistance (LIEAP) for heat and electric, Weatherization for home energy fixes, SNAP for groceries, and property tax relief programs for homeowners on fixed incomes.
  • For health care, apply for Medicaid if you qualify, and get free Medicare counseling through SHIINE. Apply for Extra Help (LIS) to lower drug costs.
  • For housing, look at Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) via local housing authorities and SD Housing. USDA 504 grants/loans can fix urgent home safety issues for very low-income homeowners age 62+.
  • Many programs have waitlists or strict rules. Expect paperwork and time. Ask for help from local agencies if you feel stuck.

If You Need Emergency Help (Start Here)

  • Call 911 for police, fire, or medical emergencies.
  • Call 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7).
  • Call 211 (Helpline Center) for local, same-day help with food, housing, utilities, and more. Visit the Helpline Center: https://www.helplinecenter.org/2-1-1/.
  • Adult abuse or neglect: If you suspect abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an older adult, call Dakota at Home at 1-833-663-9673 to be routed to Adult Protective Services, or contact local law enforcement.
  • Veterans in crisis: Dial 988, then press 1 (Veterans Crisis Line), or text 838255.

South Dakota at a Glance (Ages 65+)

  • 169,586 older adults (18.4% of population)
  • Median age: 72.9
  • With a disability: 30.4%
  • Receiving Social Security: 90.1%
  • Using SNAP/food stamps: 5.9%
  • Below poverty level: 8.8%
    Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (2023). See ACS data: https://data.census.gov/ (table S0101 and related).

Table: Quick Contacts for Common Needs

Need Best First Contact How They Help
One-stop state help Dakota at Home (ADRC): 1-833-663-9673 Screening for services, care options, help applying
Local help, today Helpline Center 211 Food, housing, utilities, transport, local referrals
Medicare counseling SHIINE (South Dakota’s SHIP): https://dss.sd.gov/medicare/shiine/ Free, unbiased Medicare and drug plan help
Medicaid Apply online: https://dss.sd.gov/medicaid/generalinfo/apply.aspx Health coverage for eligible older adults
SNAP (food stamps) Apply online: https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/snap/ Monthly benefits to buy groceries
Heat/electric bills LIEAP: https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/energyassistance/lowincome.aspx Help with heating costs; cooling in some cases
Home weatherization Weatherization: https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/energyassistance/weatherization.aspx Free home energy improvements for eligible households
Housing/rent SD Housing (SDHDA): https://sdhda.org/for-renters/rental-assistance Section 8 info and affordable rentals
Property tax relief SD Dept. of Revenue programs: https://dor.sd.gov/individuals/taxes/property-tax/relief-programs/ Assessment freeze, municipal reduction, veterans’ exemptions

How to Use This Guide

  • We grouped programs by what they help with (money, food, housing, health, etc.).
  • For each item: what it is, who it serves, how it helps, and how to apply.
  • Look for “Reality check” notes about waitlists and common roadblocks.
  • Links go to official state, federal, or established non-profit sources.

Start Here: Your One-Stop Entry Point

Dakota at Home (Aging & Disability Resource Center)

  • What it is: The state’s main doorway to long-term services and supports for older adults, caregivers, and people with disabilities.
  • What it does: Free options counseling, screening for services, help with applications, and referrals to in-home support, transportation, meals, and more.
  • How to get help: Call 1-833-663-9673 or visit South Dakota Long-Term Services & Supports (LTSS): https://dhs.sd.gov/en/get-help-for-older-adult
  • Reality check: They don’t control program budgets or speed, but they can greatly reduce back-and-forth and help you qualify correctly.

Money and Bills

Social Security, SSI, and SSDI

Tip: Even if you think you’re “over” income or resources, talk with a benefits counselor. Some programs ignore certain income or use deductions.

Property Tax Relief (Homeowners)

Managed by the South Dakota Department of Revenue.

Reality check: These programs have deadlines, income/resource limits, and paperwork. Contact your county treasurer or assessor early each year.

Help With Heat, Electric, and Weatherization

Reality check: LIEAP is seasonal; apply as soon as the application period opens. Weatherization often has waitlists—get your name in early.

Phone and Internet Discounts

  • Lifeline: A federal discount (up to $9.25/month for broadband or bundled service; limited support for voice-only) for qualifying low-income households. South Dakota info via Public Utilities Commission: https://puc.sd.gov/lifeline/ and federal details: https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline
  • Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP): Funding ended in 2024 and benefits stopped in 2024–2025 unless Congress renews it. Check program status here: https://www.fcc.gov/acp

Tip: Ask your phone/internet carrier about low-income plans for seniors. Many offer discounted options beyond Lifeline.

When Cash Is Extremely Tight

  • County Poor Relief (medical/limited aid): South Dakota counties may help indigent residents with certain medical costs and, in rare cases, other essentials. Ask your county auditor/treasurer, or call 211 to find your county office. State overview: https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/Codified_Laws/2058581 (statutory reference; contact your county for current local rules).
  • Emergency help: Helpline Center 211 can connect you with churches, charities, and short-term aid near you: https://www.helplinecenter.org/2-1-1/

Reality check: TANF is for families with minor children and usually doesn’t fit seniors living alone. Focus instead on LIEAP, SNAP, and local aid.

Table: Money & Bills – At a Glance

Program Who It Helps What You Get Where to Apply
LIEAP (energy) Low-income households Help with heating/energy bills https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/energyassistance/lowincome.aspx
Weatherization Low-income households Free energy-saving home improvements https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/energyassistance/weatherization.aspx
Lifeline Low-income households Phone/internet discount https://puc.sd.gov/lifeline/
Assessment Freeze Low-income seniors/disabled Freezes home’s assessed value https://dor.sd.gov/individuals/taxes/property-tax/relief-programs/
Municipal Tax Reduction Low-income seniors/disabled Reduces city property tax https://dor.sd.gov/individuals/taxes/property-tax/relief-programs/
Disabled Veteran Exemption Qualified disabled veterans Reduces property tax https://dor.sd.gov/individuals/taxes/property-tax/relief-programs/

Food and Nutrition

SNAP (Food Stamps)

  • What it is: Monthly benefits on an EBT card to buy groceries.
  • Who qualifies: Based on income, household size, and allowable deductions.
  • Apply: South Dakota DSS – SNAP: https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/snap/

Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)

  • What it is: Monthly shelf-stable food boxes for income-eligible adults age 60+.
  • Run by: South Dakota Department of Education, Child and Adult Nutrition Services.
  • Info & locations: https://doe.sd.gov/cans/csfp.aspx

Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)

  • What it is: Seasonal coupons to buy fresh fruits and vegetables from approved local farmers’ markets.
  • Who qualifies: Income-eligible seniors.
  • Learn more (program admin page): South Dakota SFMNP – Department of Education (CANS): https://doe.sd.gov/cans/ (look for Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program details or call CANS for eligibility and locations).

Meals for Seniors (Congregate & Home-Delivered)

  • What it is: Hot meals at senior centers and “Meals on Wheels” delivered to homebound seniors; also wellness checks and social time.
  • How to find a program near you: Contact Dakota at Home (1-833-663-9673), call 211, or search “Meals on Wheels” with your city name. State LTSS program overview: https://dhs.sd.gov/en/get-help-for-older-adult

Reality check: Home-delivered meals often require an assessment and may have routes/delivery limits. Suggested donations are common, but no one is turned away for inability to pay.

Housing and Rent

Affordable Rentals and Vouchers

  • Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8): Helps very low-income households pay rent. Apply through your local Public Housing Authority (PHA). Learn more and find programs via South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA): https://sdhda.org/for-renters/rental-assistance
  • Project-Based Section 8: Discounted rents tied to specific buildings. Search SDHDA’s rental listings and ask properties about project-based assistance: https://sdhda.org/for-renters

Reality check: Expect waitlists, especially in metro areas like Sioux Falls and Rapid City. Keep your contact info current with the PHA to avoid losing your place on the list.

Homelessness Prevention and Help

  • Helpline Center 211: Coordinated entry to shelters, rent help, and rapid rehousing: https://www.helplinecenter.org/2-1-1/
  • South Dakota Housing for the Homeless Consortium (CoC): System planning is coordinated by SDHDA. Learn more: https://sdhda.org/
  • Salvation Army (by city): Some locations offer emergency rent or utility help. Use your local Salvation Army site or call 211 for current programs.

Home Repairs and Safety Upgrades (Owners)

  • USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants (Section 504)
    • What it is: Grants up to 10,000forverylow−incomehomeownersage62+toremovehealth/safetyhazards;loansupto10,000 for very low-income homeowners age 62+ to remove health/safety hazards; loans up to 40,000 at 1% interest may be available.
    • Apply and check eligibility: USDA Rural Development – South Dakota: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/sd
    • Reality check: Grants become loans if you sell the home within a certain time. Income and rural location rules apply.
  • Community Home Improvement Program (CHIP)
  • Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
    • See “Money and Bills” above. It improves energy efficiency and can address furnace safety.
  • Accessibility and Assistive Technology
    • DakotaLink (South Dakota Assistive Technology Program) offers device loans, demos, and help finding funding for equipment (e.g., ramps, grab bars, hearing aids). Learn more: https://dakotalink.net/

Table: Housing & Home Repair Programs

Program Homeowner or Renter Main Benefit Where to Start
Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Renter Pays part of monthly rent https://sdhda.org/for-renters/rental-assistance
Project-Based Section 8 Renter Discounted rent in specific buildings https://sdhda.org/for-renters
USDA 504 Repair Grants/Loans Homeowner (very low income, 62+) Fix health/safety issues https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/sd
CHIP (SDHDA) Homeowner Low-interest repair loans https://sdhda.org/homeownership/home-improvement
Weatherization Owner or Renter (with permission) Energy upgrades, lower bills https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/energyassistance/weatherization.aspx

Health Care and Long-Term Services

Medicaid (for seniors and people with disabilities)

  • What it is: Health coverage for eligible low-income South Dakotans; includes hospital, doctor visits, prescriptions, nursing home care, and home- and community-based services.
  • Apply online: South Dakota DSS – Medicaid: https://dss.sd.gov/medicaid/generalinfo/apply.aspx
  • Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI): Help with Medicare Part A/B premiums and, in some cases, copays and deductibles if your income qualifies. Learn more: https://dss.sd.gov/medicaid/recipients/medicaresavings.aspx
  • Long-Term Care Medicaid (nursing facility and in-home services): Screening and functional eligibility required. Start with Dakota at Home: 1-833-663-9673.

Reality check: Medicaid has income and asset rules. If you think you’re close, get help from SHIINE or Dakota at Home to avoid mistakes.

Medicare and Prescription Savings

Note: South Dakota does not operate a separate state pharmacy assistance program for Medicare Part D. Use Extra Help and SHIINE counseling to lower costs.

Care at Home and Caregiver Support

  • HOPE Waiver (Home & Community-Based Services)
    • What it is: Services that help older adults stay at home (personal care, homemaker, adult day, respite).
    • Who qualifies: Older adults who meet functional and financial eligibility.
    • Learn more: South Dakota LTSS – HOPE Waiver: https://dhs.sd.gov/ltss/titlexix.aspx
  • ASA In-Home Services
    • What it is: In-home help with activities like bathing, grooming, housekeeping, meals, and shopping for those not eligible for the HCBS waiver.
    • Learn more: Contact LTSS through Dakota at Home: 1-833-663-9673; overview: https://dhs.sd.gov/en/get-help-for-older-adult
  • Family Caregiver Support

Ombudsman and Rights

Dental, Vision, and Hearing

Reality check: Dental programs often have waitlists. Apply early and keep your contact info current.

Table: Health & Care – Where to Apply

Need Program What It Covers Where to Apply/Call
Medicaid South Dakota Medicaid Health coverage, some LTSS https://dss.sd.gov/medicaid/generalinfo/apply.aspx
Medicare counseling SHIINE Plan choices, billing help https://dss.sd.gov/medicare/shiine/
Drug cost help Extra Help (LIS) Lowers Part D costs https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/
At-home care HOPE Waiver/ASA In-Home Personal care, respite, homemaker https://dhs.sd.gov/ltss/titlexix.aspx and 1-833-663-9673
Care issues LTC Ombudsman Rights, complaints, mediation https://dhs.sd.gov/en/get-help-for-older-adult

Transportation

  • OAA-funded Senior Rides: Local transit systems provide rides to medical visits, senior centers, and shopping for adults 60+ (usually a suggested donation). Ask Dakota at Home (1-833-663-9673) or call 211.
  • Public Transit Providers (statewide): South Dakota Department of Transportation lists local transit systems (Prairie Hills Transit, River Cities Public Transit, etc.). Start here: https://dot.sd.gov/transportation/public-transit
  • Senior Companions (Good Samaritan Society): Friendly visits, light help, sometimes local transport. Learn more: https://www.good-sam.com/senior-companions

Tip: Request wheelchair-accessible vehicles when booking. Ask about subscription rides for dialysis or recurring appointments.

Special Focus: Veterans, Tribal Members, LGBTQ+ Seniors, Disabled and Rural Seniors

Veteran Seniors

Reality check: VA systems can be complex. Work with a County/Tribal Veterans Service Officer (VSO): https://vetaffairs.sd.gov/veteransserviceofficers/what%20is%20a%20vso.aspx

Tribal Members (American Indian/Alaska Native)

Tip: You can often choose between state and tribal programs. Ask which option is faster or fits your needs best.

LGBTQ+ Seniors

  • SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline: 877-360-5428 (confidential support and local referrals): https://www.sageusa.org/
  • Medicare and Medicaid are equal-access programs. If you face discrimination, report it to SHIINE for Medicare issues and to DSS for Medicaid issues. Civil Rights resources: https://www.hhs.gov/ocr/

Seniors with Disabilities

  • Medicaid (Aged, Blind, Disabled) and Medicare Savings Programs can help cover medical costs.
  • DakotaLink (Assistive Technology): Device loans, funding guidance: https://dakotalink.net/
  • ADA transportation accommodations: When booking rides, request ADA features (ramps/lifts, door-to-door help). Transit providers: https://dot.sd.gov/transportation/public-transit

Rural Seniors and Limited Access Areas

  • Telehealth: Medicare covers many telehealth services; ask your doctor or visit Medicare telehealth info: https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/telehealth
  • Broadband Expansion: Watch the South Dakota Broadband Office for new coverage projects (BEAD and other initiatives): https://broadband.sd.gov/
  • Mail-Order Pharmacies: Ask your Medicare Part D plan about mail delivery and 90-day supplies.
  • Mobile Clinics and Outreach: Call 211 or Dakota at Home to learn about visiting nurses, mobile food pantries, and pop-up enrollment events.

Utilities, Safety, and Daily Living

Programs Often Missed (Don’t Overlook These)

Resources by Region (Selected)

Note: For city- or county-specific rent help, call 211. Local funding changes frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Did South Dakota expand Medicaid?
  1. Where do I get free, unbiased help with Medicare choices?
  1. Is there a state program to help pay for prescription drugs for seniors?
  1. What property tax help is available for homeowners on fixed incomes?
  1. Is the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) still active?
  1. How do I find Section 8 (Housing Choice Voucher) applications?
  1. How do I report suspected elder abuse or neglect?
  • If in danger, call 911. Otherwise, call Dakota at Home at 1-833-663-9673 to be routed to Adult Protective Services, or contact local law enforcement.
  1. What if I need help right now for food or rent?
  1. Do I have to sell my home if I receive Medicaid long-term care?
  • Medicaid may place estate recovery claims after death for certain services. Rules are complex and have exceptions (e.g., a spouse at home). Speak with SHIINE or an elder law attorney. Estate Recovery info via DSS: https://dss.sd.gov/medicaid/recipients/estates/
  1. Who can help me fill out applications and gather documents?
  • Dakota at Home (1-833-663-9673), SHIINE for Medicare, and Helpline Center 211 for local navigators. Many senior centers and libraries will help with online forms.

Reality Checks, Tips, and Warnings

  • Expect waitlists. Section 8, Weatherization, and dental charity care often take time.
  • Keep paperwork handy: ID, Social Security card, proof of income, bank statements, lease/mortgage, utility bills, and medical bills.
  • Update your contact info. Many people lose benefits because agencies can’t reach them.
  • Watch out for fees. Most official programs do not charge to apply. If someone asks for payment to get you faster benefits, be cautious and verify with the agency or call 211.
  • Reapply or renew on time. Put reminders on your calendar for SNAP, Medicaid, and property tax relief renewals.

Program Index (Clickable)

Table: Apply Here – Official Links

Topic Program/Agency Apply/Info
One-stop services Dakota at Home (LTSS/ADRC) https://dhs.sd.gov/en/get-help-for-older-adult
Medicaid South Dakota DSS https://dss.sd.gov/medicaid/generalinfo/apply.aspx
Medicare counseling SHIINE https://dss.sd.gov/medicare/shiine/
Extra Help (LIS) Social Security https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/
SNAP South Dakota DSS https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/snap/
LIEAP (energy) South Dakota DSS https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/energyassistance/lowincome.aspx
Weatherization South Dakota DSS https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/energyassistance/weatherization.aspx
Housing & vouchers SD Housing (SDHDA) https://sdhda.org/for-renters/rental-assistance
Property tax relief SD Dept. of Revenue https://dor.sd.gov/individuals/taxes/property-tax/relief-programs/
Lifeline SD Public Utilities Commission https://puc.sd.gov/lifeline/
Donated dental Dental Lifeline Network SD https://dentallifeline.org/south-dakota/
Community health centers HRSA Health Center Finder https://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov/
Veterans services SD Dept. of Veterans Affairs https://vetaffairs.sd.gov/
Homeless help Helpline Center 211 https://www.helplinecenter.org/2-1-1/

Sources (Selected Official and Established)

Disclaimer
Program rules, funding, and contact details can change. Always confirm eligibility, benefits, and application steps with the agency or program before you apply. 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.