Last Updated on October 9, 2023 by Lori Pace
If you’re a low-income family with children under the age of 18 living in South Dakota, you may be eligible for temporary financial assistance through the state’s TANF program. TANF, or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, is a public assistance program that aims to provide financial support to needy families while promoting self-sufficiency through work.
In South Dakota, TANF benefits can help you meet your basic needs and move toward financial independence. But to be eligible, you must meet specific qualification guidelines.
In this article, we’ll provide an overview of TANF South Dakota family assistance, including eligibility requirements, benefits, and the application process, as well as information on employment services, child support, and appeals procedures.
Understanding TANF and Eligibility Requirements in South Dakota
If you’re living in South Dakota and struggling financially, this temporary public assistance program provides monthly cash benefits to low-income families with children who need financial support.
To qualify for the TANF South Dakota program, you must be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident living in South Dakota., Families must also have children under age 19 or pregnant.
Needy parents, single parents, and custodial parents who are under-employed or unemployed are eligible to apply as long as the household income meets federal income limit guidelines.
The Department of Social Services and the Department of Labor and Regulations oversee the program. TANF benefits in South Dakota can help families move from welfare to work. Additionally, custodial parents of minor children automatically receive child support services, which can continue after benefits are terminated.
You may contact your local DSS office or website for further questions about eligibility criteria.
Applying for South Dakota TANF Assistance
To receive assistance from South Dakota TANF, it’s important to know how to apply and what documentation is required. Here are three steps to help you get started:
1) Contact your local Department of Social Services office to schedule an appointment and begin the application process.
2) Provide necessary supporting documents, including proof of income, family responsibility, and any other conditions of eligibility required by the program.
3) Work with a case manager to set employment goals and access child support services, if needed.
Once approved, you may receive monthly cash payments and other assistance benefits for up to 60 consecutive months. The payment standard includes direct deposit of the cash assistance into your bank account or using a Way2Go card.
The cash benefit amount essentially depends on your family size, household income, and other prevailing conditions. The table below shows the maximum benefit amount you will likely receive monthly.
| Family Size | Maximum Benefit |
| 1 | $488 |
| 2 | $597 |
| 3 | $668 |
| 4 | $738 |
| 5 | $808 |
Employment Services and Other Benefits Available Through South Dakota TANF
Participants in the South Dakota TANF program have access to various employment services and other benefits to help them achieve economic self-sufficiency. The program’s primary focus is to help families move from welfare to work by promoting family responsibility and accountability.
To achieve your employment goals, the program offers employment specialists who work with participants to develop employment choices and connect them with job placement services in the job market. Additionally, participants may be eligible for child care services to assist with the cost of child care while they work.
The Department of Social Services also provides access to other support services, such as housing assistance, transportation assistance, clothing assistance, and emergency assistance.
To learn more about the range of benefits and projects for assistance available through the South Dakota TANF program, contact your local DSS office.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
Phone: 605.773.4678
Fax: 605.773.7183
Rights and Responsibilities of TANF Participants
As a TANF recipient in South Dakota, you have specific rights and responsibilities for receiving these temporary assistance benefits. These monthly payments are intended to help needy families meet their basic needs while working towards employment goals.
To continue receiving benefits, you must meet eligibility requirements and work at least 30 hours weekly in allowable work activities. You also have a responsibility to report any changes in household composition, income, or employment status. Additionally, you must comply with program conditions, including participating in assessments and developing a Personal Responsibility Plan.
While childcare assistance may be available to help you meet work requirements, it’s ultimately your responsibility to secure and maintain employment. Remember, these benefits are meant to be temporary, and it’s crucial to work towards self-sufficiency to become financially stable in the long term.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often are TANF payments received in South Dakota?
TANF payments in South Dakota are received monthly. You can have it directly deposited in your bank savings account or use the Way2Go card.
Are there any restrictions on how TANF benefits can be spent in South Dakota?
Yes, there are restrictions on how TANF benefits can be spent in South Dakota. The benefits are intended to meet basic needs and cannot be used for non-essential purposes such as alcohol, illegal drugs, or gambling.
Can someone receive TANF benefits in South Dakota with a part-time job?
Yes, you can receive TANF benefits in South Dakota if you have a part-time job as long as you meet the minimum work activity requirements of 30 hours per week in allowable work activities or 20 hours per week if you have a child under age 6.
What happens if a TANF participant in South Dakota fails to meet their work requirements?
If you fail to meet TANF work requirements in South Dakota, you may face penalties affecting eligibility and payments. This can include a reduction or termination of benefits. It is important to comply with the program rules to maintain eligibility.
What is the maximum duration a person can receive TANF assistance in South Dakota?
You can receive TANF assistance in South Dakota for a maximum of 60-month lifetime limit. The purpose of TANF is to provide temporary assistance to low-income families in meeting basic needs such as food, shelter, and clothing.
Conclusion
Take the time to understand the eligibility criteria and application process. Also, consider the employment services and other benefits that may be available to you through the program.
Remember, if you choose to participate in TANF, you have certain rights and responsibilities as a participant. These may include attending job training or education programs, reporting income and changes in household circumstances, and complying with program rules and regulations.
By staying informed and engaged, you can make the most of the resources available and work towards a brighter future for yourself and your family.
