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









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
- Social Security Retirement/Survivors: Apply or manage benefits through Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Monthly cash for very low-income seniors 65+ or people with disabilities. Apply: https://www.ssa.gov/ssi/
- SSDI (disability insurance): For those who became disabled and have work credits. Apply: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/
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.
- Assessment Freeze for the Elderly and Disabled: Freezes the assessed value of your home if you meet age/disability and income limits. Learn how it works and apply through your county: https://dor.sd.gov/individuals/taxes/property-tax/relief-programs/
- Property Tax Reduction from Municipal Taxes (Elderly/Disabled): Lowers city property taxes for eligible homeowners. Details and forms via Dept. of Revenue: https://dor.sd.gov/individuals/taxes/property-tax/relief-programs/
- Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption: Partial exemption for certain service-connected disabled veterans (and in some cases surviving spouses). Program details: https://dor.sd.gov/individuals/taxes/property-tax/relief-programs/
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
- Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP): Helps pay winter heating bills (and limited cooling/energy costs when available). Apply through South Dakota DSS: https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/energyassistance/lowincome.aspx
- Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Free improvements that can lower your bills (insulation, air sealing, furnace safety/repairs). Learn more and find local providers: https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/energyassistance/weatherization.aspx
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)
- What it is: Low-interest loans for essential repairs (roofing, heating, electrical, plumbing, insulation, etc.).
- Administered by: SDHDA.
- Details: https://sdhda.org/homeownership/home-improvement
- 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
- Medicare basics and enrollment: Social Security—Medicare: https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/
- Free counseling: SHIINE (South Dakota’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program): https://dss.sd.gov/medicare/shiine/
- Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) for Part D: Cuts drug plan premiums and copays for those who qualify. Apply via Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/
- Drug discount options: Community Health Centers (FQHCs) may offer 340B pricing. Find a health center: https://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov/
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
- What it is: Help for family caregivers (respite, information, training, support groups).
- Start here: https://dhs.sd.gov/en/get-help-for-older-adult or call 1-833-663-9673.
Ombudsman and Rights
- Long-Term Care Ombudsman: Protects residents’ rights in nursing homes and assisted living; helps solve problems with care. Contact via LTSS or Dakota at Home: https://dhs.sd.gov/en/get-help-for-older-adult
Dental, Vision, and Hearing
- Medicaid coverage: Limited adult dental/vision services may be available for eligible members; check your specific coverage through DSS: https://dss.sd.gov/medicaid/
- Dental Lifeline Network (Donated Dental Services): Free, comprehensive dental care for eligible South Dakotans who are elderly, medically fragile, or have a disability. Learn more and apply: https://dentallifeline.org/south-dakota/
- Community Health Centers: Offer dental, medical, and behavioral health on a sliding scale. Find a center: https://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov/
- Assistive Technology and hearing/vision devices: DakotaLink: https://dakotalink.net/
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
- State Veterans Affairs: Help with claims, benefits, records, and referrals. South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs: https://vetaffairs.sd.gov/
- Veteran Employment/Services (DLR): Specialized veteran staff and services: https://dlr.sd.gov/veterans/default.aspx
- Health Care: VA Black Hills Health Care System (Fort Meade and Hot Springs) and Sioux Falls VA. Find VA facilities: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/
- Property Tax: Disabled Veteran Exemption (see Dept. of Revenue relief programs): https://dor.sd.gov/individuals/taxes/property-tax/relief-programs/
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)
- Indian Health Service – Great Plains Area: Medical and public health services; eligibility varies by tribe and location. Info: https://www.ihs.gov/greatplains/
- Tribal LIHEAP, Housing, and Social Services: Apply through your Tribal government for energy assistance, housing, and caregiver supports. Contact your Tribal social services office or call 211 for direct numbers.
- Housing Improvement Program (BIA): Home repair and renovation for eligible AI/AN homeowners. Program info: https://www.bia.gov/service/housing-improvement-program
- Section 184 Indian Home Loan Guarantee: For home purchase/refinance/rehab. Info: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/ih/homeownership/section184
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
- Public Utilities Commission (PUC): Utility complaints, Lifeline, and consumer tips: https://puc.sd.gov/
- Fraud and Scams: Report Medicare scams to SHIINE and the FTC: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/
- Senior Companions and Friendly Visitors: Helps reduce isolation and provides light help at home: https://www.good-sam.com/senior-companions
- AARP South Dakota: Benefits education, fraud alerts, and local events: https://states.aarp.org/south-dakota
Programs Often Missed (Don’t Overlook These)
- Medicare Savings Programs: Can save hundreds per month on Part B premiums if you qualify. Info: https://dss.sd.gov/medicaid/recipients/medicaresavings.aspx
- Extra Help for Part D: Reduces drug costs even if you already have a plan. Apply: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/
- Property Tax Assessment Freeze: Protects your home’s assessed value; renew yearly. Details: https://dor.sd.gov/individuals/taxes/property-tax/relief-programs/
- Weatherization: Free energy upgrades can cut bills for years. Apply early: https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/energyassistance/weatherization.aspx
Resources by Region (Selected)
- Statewide
- Dakota at Home (ADRC): 1-833-663-9673; https://dhs.sd.gov/en/get-help-for-older-adult
- Helpline Center 211: https://www.helplinecenter.org/2-1-1/
- SD Housing (SDHDA): https://sdhda.org/
- SHIINE: https://dss.sd.gov/medicare/shiine/
- DSS Benefits Portal (Medicaid, SNAP, LIEAP): https://dss.sd.gov/
- Sioux Falls area
- City housing info & local PHA directory via SDHDA: https://sdhda.org/for-renters/rental-assistance
- Meals on Wheels and senior services: Call 211 for current providers (e.g., Active Generations)
- Sioux Falls VA Health Care: https://www.va.gov/sioux-falls-health-care/
- Rapid City / Black Hills
- Prairie Hills Transit: https://www.prairiehillstransit.org/
- VA Black Hills Health Care System: https://www.va.gov/black-hills-health-care/
- Western SD senior nutrition: Call 211 for current meal sites and delivery routes
- Pierre / Central SD
- River Cities Public Transit: https://rcptransit.com/
- State agencies hub (walk-in): Call before going; use Dakota at Home to plan your visit
- Reservations/Tribal Nations (examples)
- Oglala Sioux Tribe (Pine Ridge): Contact Tribal programs via 211 or Tribal offices
- Rosebud Sioux Tribe: Contact Tribal social services for LIHEAP/housing; IHS Rosebud Hospital info via IHS Great Plains: https://www.ihs.gov/greatplains/
- Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate: Tribal assistance offices; contact 211 for numbers
Note: For city- or county-specific rent help, call 211. Local funding changes frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Did South Dakota expand Medicaid?
- Yes. Adults 19–64 with incomes up to 138% of the federal poverty level may qualify starting July 1, 2023. For seniors (65+), Medicaid categories and rules still apply. Apply or learn more: https://dss.sd.gov/medicaid/generalinfo/apply.aspx
- Where do I get free, unbiased help with Medicare choices?
- SHIINE is South Dakota’s free counseling program for Medicare plans, bills, and appeals: https://dss.sd.gov/medicare/shiine/
- Is there a state program to help pay for prescription drugs for seniors?
- South Dakota does not run a stand-alone pharmacy assistance program for Medicare Part D. Apply for Extra Help (LIS) to lower premiums and copays: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/. Community Health Centers may offer discounted medications: https://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov/
- What property tax help is available for homeowners on fixed incomes?
- Check the Assessment Freeze for the Elderly/Disabled, the Property Tax Reduction from Municipal Taxes, and veterans’ exemptions. Program details: https://dor.sd.gov/individuals/taxes/property-tax/relief-programs/. Apply through your county.
- Is the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) still active?
- ACP funding ended in 2024, and benefits stopped unless Congress renews it. Check status here: https://www.fcc.gov/acp. Lifeline is still available: https://puc.sd.gov/lifeline/
- How do I find Section 8 (Housing Choice Voucher) applications?
- Contact your local Public Housing Authority (PHA) or visit SDHDA’s renter page for links: https://sdhda.org/for-renters/rental-assistance. Be ready for waitlists and follow instructions exactly.
- 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.
- What if I need help right now for food or rent?
- Call 211 for local emergency assistance programs. Apply for SNAP online: https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/snap/. Ask about rent assistance and Coordinated Entry in your county.
- 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/
- 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
Sources (Selected Official and Established)
- South Dakota Department of Social Services (Medicaid, SNAP, LIEAP, Weatherization): https://dss.sd.gov/
- South Dakota Department of Human Services – LTSS (Dakota at Home, HOPE Waiver, Ombudsman): https://dhs.sd.gov/en/get-help-for-older-adult and https://dhs.sd.gov/ltss/titlexix.aspx
- South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA): https://sdhda.org/
- South Dakota Department of Revenue – Property Tax Relief Programs: https://dor.sd.gov/individuals/taxes/property-tax/relief-programs/
- South Dakota Public Utilities Commission – Lifeline: https://puc.sd.gov/lifeline/
- U.S. Census Bureau – American Community Survey: https://data.census.gov/
- Social Security Administration (Medicare enrollment, SSI, Extra Help): https://www.ssa.gov/
- Medicare (program info): https://www.medicare.gov/
- HRSA Health Center Finder: https://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov/
- Indian Health Service – Great Plains Area: https://www.ihs.gov/greatplains/
- FCC Affordable Connectivity Program status: https://www.fcc.gov/acp
- Dental Lifeline Network – South Dakota: https://dentallifeline.org/south-dakota/
- South Dakota Department of Transportation – Public Transit: https://dot.sd.gov/transportation/public-transit
- Helpline Center (211): https://www.helplinecenter.org/2-1-1/
- SD Department of Labor & Regulation – Veterans: https://dlr.sd.gov/veterans/default.aspx
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.