South Dakota SNAP Guide

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, is a crucial federal assistance program designed to help low-income individuals and families in South Dakota access nutritious food. Administered by the South Dakota Department of Social Services (DSS), SNAP aims to alleviate hunger and improve the overall health and well-being of eligible residents by providing monthly benefits that can be used to purchase food items at authorized retailers. This program serves as a vital safety net for thousands of South Dakotans, including working families, elderly individuals, and people with disabilities, who might otherwise struggle to put food on the table. By supplementing household food budgets, SNAP not only helps to reduce food insecurity but also stimulates local economies, as every dollar in SNAP benefits generates approximately $1.50 in economic activity.

What is the South Dakota SNAP Program?

SNAP in South Dakota is part of the federal nutrition assistance program that provides electronic benefits to eligible low-income individuals and families. These benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, which functions like a debit card and can be used to purchase eligible food items at participating grocery stores, farmers markets, and other authorized retailers.

Key Features of South Dakota SNAP:

• Monthly benefits based on household size and income
• EBT card for easy and discreet use
• Ability to purchase a wide variety of food items
• Farmers Market Nutrition Program participation

Eligibility for South Dakota SNAP

Eligibility for SNAP in South Dakota is determined by several factors, including income, assets, household size, and certain non-financial criteria. South Dakota uses both gross and net income tests to determine eligibility:

Gross Income Limits (130% of Federal Poverty Level)

Household Size	Maximum Gross Monthly Income
1 person	$1,632
2 people	$2,214
3 people	$2,797
4 people	$3,380
5 people	$3,963
Each additional person	+$583

Net Income Limits (100% of Federal Poverty Level)

Household Size	Maximum Net Monthly Income
1 person	$1,255
2 people	$1,703
3 people	$2,151
4 people	$2,600
5 people	$3,048
Each additional person	+$449

Asset Limits

South Dakota imposes asset limits for SNAP eligibility:

• $2,250 for most households
• $3,250 for households with at least one elderly (60+) or disabled member

Certain assets, such as a primary residence and at least one vehicle, are typically excluded from this calculation.

Work Requirements

Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) between 18 and 49 years old must meet specific work requirements:

• Work at least 20 hours per week
• Participate in an approved work program
• Comply with the SNAP Employment and Training Program if assigned

Failure to meet these requirements may limit SNAP benefits to three months within a three-year period.

Special Considerations

• Households with elderly or disabled members may have different eligibility criteria
• Non-citizens with qualified alien status may be eligible
• Students may have additional requirements to qualify

How to Apply for South Dakota SNAP?

Applying for SNAP benefits in South Dakota can be done through several methods:

1. Online: Visit the DSS website and use the online application portal
2. In-person: Apply at your local DSS office
3. By mail: Download and print the application form, then mail it to your local DSS office
4. By phone: Call the South Dakota SNAP hotline at 1-877-999-5612 for assistance

Application Process

1. Gather required documents (proof of identity, income, residency, etc.)
2. Complete the application form
3. Participate in an interview (can be conducted over the phone or in-person)
4. Provide any additional requested information
5. Receive a decision within 30 days of application submission

Required Documentation

• Proof of identity
• Social Security numbers for all household members
• Proof of income (pay stubs, benefit letters, etc.)
• Proof of residency
• Information on rent/mortgage and utility expenses
• Medical expenses for elderly or disabled members (if applicable)

Using SNAP Benefits

Once approved, benefits are loaded onto an EBT card monthly. This card can be used at authorized retailers to purchase eligible food items:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Meat, poultry, and fish
• Dairy products
• Breads and cereals
• Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
• Seeds and plants that produce food for the household

SNAP benefits cannot be used for:

• Alcoholic beverages
• Tobacco products
• Hot prepared foods
• Non-food items (pet food, cleaning supplies, etc.)
• Vitamins and medicines