Medicaid Eligibility in South Dakota 2026: Income Limits, Requirements & How to Apply

Medicaid Expansion Status in South Dakota

South Dakota has fully expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, meaning adults earning up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level ($22,025/year for an individual) qualify for Medicaid coverage.

Who Qualifies for Medicaid in South Dakota?

Medicaid in South Dakota covers several distinct groups, each with different income and eligibility requirements. The major categories are: seniors (65+), people with disabilities, pregnant women, children, and low-income adults (if the state has expanded Medicaid).

Medicaid for Seniors (65+) in South Dakota

Seniors in South Dakota may qualify for Medicaid to cover nursing home care, home-based care, or to supplement Medicare coverage. The income limit for Regular Medicaid (Aged, Blind, and Disabled) in South Dakota is $994/month for a single person. For nursing home care, the limit is $2,982/month.

Medicaid for People with Disabilities in South Dakota

People with disabilities who receive SSDI or SSI may qualify for Medicaid in South Dakota. SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid in most states. SSDI recipients must wait 24 months for Medicare, during which Medicaid may provide coverage if income is below $994/month.

How to Apply for Medicaid in South Dakota

You can apply for Medicaid in South Dakota through the following channels:

• Online: Through South Dakota’s state Medicaid portal or HealthCare.gov
• Phone: Call South Dakota’s Medicaid office directly
• In person: Visit your local Department of Social Services or Medicaid office
• Mail: Download and mail a paper application

Medicaid and Medicare Dual Eligibility in South Dakota

Individuals who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid are called “dual eligibles.” In South Dakota, dual eligible individuals receive comprehensive coverage: Medicare covers most medical services, while Medicaid covers Medicare premiums, deductibles, copays, and additional services like long-term care. There are approximately 36,000 dual-eligible individuals in South Dakota.

Medicaid Asset Limits in South Dakota

In addition to income limits, Medicaid for long-term care in South Dakota has asset limits. For a single applicant, the countable asset limit is typically $2,000. For a married couple where one spouse needs nursing home care, the community spouse may keep up to $157,920 in countable assets (the Community Spouse Resource Allowance, or CSRA, for 2026). The primary home, one vehicle, personal belongings, and certain other assets are typically exempt.