South Dakota SNAP (Food Assistance)
Last updated August 2026
South Dakota SNAP gives you monthly food money on an EBT card. You use the card like a debit card at most grocery stores. The fastest way to apply is online at the DSS Benefits Portal, eaportal.sd.gov. You can also apply at a local Department of Social Services office or by paper form. For help, call the Department of Social Services at 605-773-3165.
SNAP uses two income tests, so it helps to know both. The gross monthly income limit is 130 percent of the federal poverty level. That is about $1,696 a month for one person and $3,483 for a family of four. There is also a net monthly income limit of 100 percent of poverty, about $1,305 for one person and $2,680 for a family of four.
There is also an asset test. Your household can keep no more than $3,000 in countable resources, such as money in a bank account. That limit rises to $4,500 if at least one person in the home is age 60 or older or has a disability.
How much you get depends on your income. The state takes the maximum amount for your household size and subtracts 30 percent of your net income. A household with less income gets more help. You cannot use SNAP to buy alcohol, tobacco, pet food, soap, paper products, vitamins, medicine, hot foods, or food eaten in the store.
Most able-bodied adults must meet work requirements to get SNAP. Ask your worker how that rule applies to you. Meeting the rules does not promise approval. You send in your proof, and the program decides if you qualify.
Apply as soon as you can, since food help does not start until your case is approved. If food is short today, dial 2-1-1 to reach the Helpline Center for a food pantry near you. You can renew or report changes on the same eaportal.sd.gov portal where you applied.
Phone 605-773-3165
Help available in English and Spanish.
Updated August 2026 Program details can change — confirm with the program directly.
Who qualifies
- Income-based; most households qualify with gross monthly income at or below 130 percent of the federal poverty level, about $1,696 a month for one person and $3,483 for a family of four
- Countable resources such as a bank account must be under $3,000, or $4,500 if a household member is age 60 or older or has a disability
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
- 1
Apply online at eaportal.sd.gov, at a local Department of Social Services office, or by paper form.
- 2
Check the two income tests: gross at 130 percent of poverty ($1,696 a month for one, $3,483 for four) and net at 100 percent.
- 3
Gather proof that your countable resources are under $3,000, or $4,500 if someone is 60 or older or has a disability.
- 4
Finish your interview and turn in your proof, then set up your EBT card after approval.
- 5
Call 605-773-3165 if you have questions or need help with the application.
What to have ready
- Photo ID for the person applying
- Proof of your household's income for the last month
- Bank statements and proof of countable resources
- Proof of where you live and your monthly bills. The office confirms the exact list.
What the application looks like
Common questions
What is the income limit for South Dakota SNAP?
The gross limit is 130 percent of poverty, about $1,696 a month for one person and $3,483 for a family of four. There is also a net limit of 100 percent of poverty.
Is there an asset test?
Yes. You can keep no more than $3,000 in countable resources, or $4,500 if a household member is age 60 or older or has a disability.
How is my benefit amount decided?
The state takes the maximum for your household size and subtracts 30 percent of your net income. Lower income means more help.
What can I buy with SNAP?
Food at approved stores. You cannot buy alcohol, tobacco, pet food, soap, paper goods, vitamins, medicine, or hot foods.
Not sure this is the right program for your situation?
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