There are several ways to apply for food stamps in South Dakota, which allows you to choose the submission method that best suits your needs. While the online application for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is often the most convenient method, you may find it easier to apply in person if you want further assistance with the process. Otherwise, you may apply by mail, fax or email.

Before completing the SD food stamp application, it is important to review the process from start to finish and gather documents that detail your personal information and income level. For more tips on the application process, the interview step and appealing a denial (if necessary), continue reading below.

What do you need to apply for food stamps in South Dakota?

In order to apply for SNAP in South Dakota and answer the required questions as accurately as possible, you will need to reference a variety of documents about your personal information, expenses and employment.

While you may be able to fill out certain sections without referencing any formal document, you will need to provide exact numbers when responding to questions about income, assets and expenses. Additionally, a staff member at your local Social Services office may ask to verify certain information later on.

As an example, the application form requires you to list the Social Security Number (SSN) of every household member applying for benefits. When you complete an interview later in the process, you may need to provide proof of each household member’s SSN.  To verify that you meet the requirements of eligibility, you will also need to review the following documents to complete the food stamp application form:

• Proof of identity, such a driver’s license, state ID, birth certificate or non-citizen visa card
• A mortgage or lease agreement
• Utility bills or home insurance forms
• Employment agreement or a paycheck
• Proof of child support payments, adoption care assistance or foster care payments, if applicable
• Medical bills, if you are a senior or disabled and you paid for medical expenses out of pocket
• Federal tax filing information

If you are trying to sign up for food stamps in South Dakota but do not have a steady job, you must provide a reasonable estimate of your monthly earnings. Moreover, you may need to provide an estimate if you are a freelancer or work as an independent contractor.

In the event that you are a student, you will also need to reference documents that prove that you are enrolled at a qualifying school. Additionally, you may need to provide proof that you participate in a work-study program.

Applying for South Dakota Food Stamps Online or by Email

If you wish to apply for food stamps online, you must use the official state system that is available 24 hours a day and seven days a week. To begin, click “get started now” and follow the instructions on the screen.

While you are allowed to submit your online application with only your name, address and electronic signature on the form, you will speed up the process by providing as much information as possible from the beginning. If you want to apply by email, you must message your Social Services office for further instructions.

One of the best advantages of completing the food stamp application online is that your submission will be received instantly. Therefore, the process will begin more quickly than it would through other submission methods.

Your submission date will be the same day you submit the entire online form unless you submit it after 5 p.m. In this case, your submission date will be the next business day. Learn more about the application process by downloading our free guide.

Submitting a South Dakota Food Stamp Application by Mail or Fax

To submit the South Dakota SNAP benefits application by mail, you must first print the application from the DSS website or call your Social Services office and ask to have the application mailed to you. After you have filled out all the sections and signed the form at the bottom, you must mail or fax it to a DSS office.

In South Dakota, you may file your application at any office in the state, regardless of your home county. However, your interview may still be scheduled for the particular Social Services office in your county.

Applying for SNAP in Person in South Dakota

If you want to apply for SNAP benefits in person, fill out the application form beforehand and then bring the completed document to a Social Services office. If you are having difficulty completing certain sections, you may ask a staff member at the office for help.

It is important to plan your visit to take place during business hours. In addition, if you are requesting help, make sure to have enough time before the office closes in order to complete the form. As with an online application, an in-person application will be instantly received by your office once it is submitted.

Checking Your SNAP Application Status in South Dakota

In order to check your South Dakota SNAP application status online, you must visit the official state portal that also accepts applications. You may need to submit an e-Form number and a password in order to view your information. Once you are logged in, you will see the status of your application. Remember that you will be notified by email or by phone if the status changes to “approved” or “denied.”

In the event that you are unable to obtain this information online, contact the Social Services office where you submitted your application. A staff member may be able to provide you with an update.

South Dakota Food Stamps Interview Process

Your Social Services office will require you to complete a food stamp interview as the second part of your application. You may be the designated person to complete the interview if you are the head of the household, the spouse, a responsible adult member or an authorized representative.

Moreover, you may elect to complete the interview in person or over the phone. During the interview, a staff member at the Social Services office will go over the application with you and may ask you to verify certain information. The information provided may determine your eligibility for the SNAP program, as well as the amount of benefits you may qualify to receive.

About SNAP Recertification in South Dakota

You may complete a South Dakota SNAP recertification if you want to receive benefits after your eligibility period ends. You must complete the appropriate forms before this period ends, or you will no longer receive any benefits.

To renew your benefits, visit the DSS online system and log into your account. It may take between 10 and 45 minutes to complete the renewal form. To renew your benefits another way, contact your Social Services office to discuss your options.

About Appealing a Food Stamps Denial in South Dakota

What happens if your application for food stamps is denied? Generally, you will receive a notification as soon as possible explaining why your application was not accepted. If you want to appeal this decision, you may request a fair hearing from your Social Services office. Learn more about the denial process when you download our free guide.

Last Updated: February 27, 2023