Across South Dakota, rising housing costs, job losses, and natural disasters have pushed many renters to the brink of eviction. Whether you live in a rural community hit by flooding or a city like Sioux Falls experiencing rapid rent hikes, the need for housing support has never been greater.

Fortunately, South Dakota emergency rental assistance programs are available to help stabilize housing, prevent homelessness, and provide temporary relief during financial hardship. From federal programs like FEMA to statewide initiatives such as SD CARES, renters in need have options—if they know where to look.

This guide outlines the major rental aid resources available in 2024, who qualifies, how to apply, and where to get help now.

Why Rental Assistance Matters in South Dakota

Housing Challenges in the State

South Dakota’s rental market poses unique challenges, especially in rural counties where housing inventory is limited and support services are sparse. Meanwhile, in urban areas such as Sioux Falls and Rapid City, demand has driven up rent prices faster than wages can keep pace.

Adding to the pressure, the state has experienced a growing number of extreme weather events. The 2024 spring floods displaced hundreds of families, leaving many scrambling to find emergency housing. Combined with post-pandemic inflation and income instability, these factors have created a perfect storm of housing insecurity.

📊 U.S. Census Bureau data shows that 1 in 4 renters in South Dakota are rent-burdened, meaning they spend more than 30% of their income on rent.

Populations Most at Risk

While housing insecurity can affect anyone, certain groups are more vulnerable and often prioritized for aid:

• Low-income workers, including those in agriculture, hospitality, and service industries

• Families with children, who face disruption to education and safety during eviction

• Seniors and people with disabilities, many of whom live on fixed incomes

• Disaster-impacted households, particularly in flood-affected counties like Turner, Lincoln, and Davison

Key Emergency Rental Assistance Programs in South Dakota

Several state, federal, and local programs are available to help renters avoid eviction and stay safely housed.

SD CARES Housing Assistance Program

Originally launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, SD CARES continues to offer temporary rent and utility assistance for eligible South Dakotans facing economic hardship.

• Services Covered: Rent arrears, forward rent, security deposits, and utility bills

• Who Qualifies: Income-eligible renters experiencing financial hardship or at risk of housing instability

• Apply through: www.sdhousing.org

• Support Contact: Email: sdcares@helplinecenter.org

🏠 As of 2024, SD CARES remains open and is actively processing applications for both rural and urban applicants.

FEMA Rental Assistance (For Disaster-Affected Areas)

In response to the 2024 flooding events, FEMA has activated rental assistance in several South Dakota counties, including Davison, Lincoln, Turner, and Union.

• Eligibility: Residents whose homes were damaged or destroyed in federally declared disaster zones

• What It Covers: Temporary housing costs, hotel stays, and rental support for displaced renters and homeowners

• How to Apply: www.disasterassistance.gov or call 800-621-3362

• Tip: Apply as soon as possible after a disaster declaration to maximize benefits.

Local and Regional Agencies Offering Help

In addition to federal and statewide programs, regional organizations offer direct assistance and case management.

• GROW South Dakota
  Offers rent and utility assistance, financial education, and case management.
  📞 Phone: 605-432-6571
  🔗 Website: www.growsd.org

• Inter-Lakes Community Action Partnership (ICAP)
  Provides rental assistance to eastern South Dakota (excluding Sioux Falls).
  💻 Website: www.interlakescap.com

• Helpline Center (211)
  A centralized resource to locate aid based on your ZIP code.
  📞 Dial 211 or visit www.helplinecenter.org

How to Apply for Emergency Rental Assistance in SD

Application Process Overview

To improve your chances of approval, follow these steps:

1. Choose the right program for your location and situation (e.g., FEMA for flood victims, SD CARES for economic hardship).

2. Gather required documents in advance to avoid delays.

3. Apply online or through a local partner agency like GROW SD or ICAP.

4. Follow up with a case manager or agency representative to track your application and provide any missing information.

Common Documents Needed

Most rental aid programs require the following paperwork:

• Government-issued ID (e.g., driver’s license or tribal ID)

• Lease agreement or current rent invoice

• Eviction notice or proof of overdue rent

• Utility bills (if seeking utility assistance)

• Proof of income (pay stubs, unemployment, SSI, or self-attestation of hardship)

Tips for a Successful Application

Applying for aid can be competitive, so use these tips to improve your odds:

• Apply as early as possible — funding is limited and often distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Make copies (digital and physical) of all submitted documents.

• Stay in contact with a caseworker or call 211 if you need help completing your application.

• Document your hardship clearly and honestly, especially if you’re unemployed, medically affected, or a disaster survivor.

Research and Key Data

Here’s a snapshot of the rental landscape and program impact in South Dakota:

Expert Quotes

“South Dakota renters face unique challenges in rural areas where resources are scarce. Programs like SD CARES are a crucial lifeline.”
— Representative, South Dakota Housing Development Authority

“Rental assistance is about more than rent — it keeps people connected to work, school, and stability.”
— Case Manager, Helpline Center

Case Studies & Real-Life Examples

Rural Family in Turner County Finds Relief Post-Flood

After devastating spring floods destroyed their mobile home, a Turner County family was able to access both FEMA rental assistance and SD CARES funds to secure a temporary rental and avoid homelessness. With the help of a local case manager, they transitioned into a long-term housing solution.

Single Mother in Rapid City Avoids Eviction with GROW SD Support

Facing eviction after losing a part-time job, a single mother of two received emergency rental assistance through GROW South Dakota. She also completed a budgeting class, which helped her manage expenses and prevent future crises.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is SD CARES still accepting applications in 2024?
Yes. As of April 2024, the SD CARES program is still active and accepting applications online at sdhousing.org.

Who qualifies for FEMA rental aid?
Renters and homeowners in FEMA-declared disaster areas who are displaced or whose homes are uninhabitable due to storms, floods, or other disasters.

Can I get help with utilities too?
Yes. Both SD CARES and regional agencies like GROW SD often include utility assistance as part of their services.

What if my landlord refuses to participate?
Some programs can issue payments directly to the tenant or work with mediation services. Contact a case manager for options.

How long does it take to receive rental assistance?
Approval and disbursement can take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the program and document completeness.

Helpful Contacts and Resources

Next Steps: How to Get Rent Help Today

1. Visit sdhousing.org to apply for SD CARES rental assistance.

2. Call 211 to speak with a case manager and locate local rental aid providers.

3. Contact FEMA if your household was impacted by flooding or a disaster.

4. Reach out to GROW SD or ICAP for regional support and utility help.

5. Prepare your documents now so you’re ready to apply when opportunities arise.

Denise M

Originally from Toronto, Canada, Denise Madison, age 34, is an expert in housing policy and rental assistance. Denise earned her Master’s in Public Administration from McGill University, focusing her thesis on the effectiveness of rental assistance programs in major Canadian cities. After graduation, she worked with the Canadian government before transitioning to a consulting role in the United States, aiding in the enhancement of federal housing policies and programs. Denise is known for her practical workshops and seminars aimed at landlords and tenants, fostering better understanding and compliance with housing laws. When not at work, Denise cherishes time with her husband and their three young children, exploring the outdoors and teaching them about the importance of community involvement.