South Dakota Veteran Benefits

South Dakota values its veterans and provides a variety of state-specific benefits to honor their service and sacrifices. These benefits cover financial support, recreational opportunities, educational programs, housing and employment assistance, burial and memorial arrangements, tax incentives, and VA resources within the state. This guide provides an extensive overview of veteran disability benefits in South Dakota, offering detailed information and resources. These benefits may change over time. Please check with the individual state's veterans assistance office for the most current state benefit information. Below is a detailed breakdown of these benefits:

South Dakota Veteran Financial Benefits

  • Property Tax Exemption: South Dakota offers a property tax exemption for veterans with a 100% service-connected disability rating. This exemption can be applied to a primary residence and is detailed in South Dakota Codified Law 10-4-40.

  • State Income Tax Exemption: South Dakota does not have a state income tax, benefiting all residents, including veterans. This feature eliminates state taxes on military pensions and other sources of income.

  • Veterans' Bonus Program: South Dakota provides a one-time cash bonus to veterans who served during specific military conflicts. The amount of the bonus varies depending on the period and nature of service. This benefit is outlined in South Dakota Codified Law 33A-2.

  • Motor Vehicle Tax Exemption: Veterans with a 100% service-connected disability are exempt from paying excise tax on the purchase of one vehicle, as outlined in South Dakota Codified Law 32-5-6.3.

  • Veterans' Pension Program: South Dakota offers a pension program for low-income wartime veterans and their surviving spouses, providing financial support based on income and disability level.

  • Sales Tax Exemptions for Disabled Veterans: South Dakota provides sales tax exemptions on adaptive equipment for veterans with disabilities, including wheelchairs and other mobility aids.

Recreation Benefits

  • Free Hunting and Fishing Licenses: South Dakota offers free hunting and fishing licenses to veterans with a 100% service-connected disability. This benefit is detailed in South Dakota Codified Law 41-6-11.

  • Reduced State Park Entrance Fees: Disabled veterans can receive reduced or free entrance to South Dakota state parks, allowing them to enjoy outdoor activities and recreational opportunities without additional cost.

  • Veterans-Only Camping Areas: Some South Dakota state parks designate camping areas exclusively for veterans, providing a unique space for recreational activities and camaraderie.

  • Special Events for Veterans: South Dakota hosts events like the Veterans Day Free Fishing Day, allowing veterans to fish without a license on that specific day.

  • Veterans' Access to Recreational Programs: South Dakota offers veterans the opportunity to participate in special recreational programs, including adaptive sports and outdoor adventure events.

Education Programs

  • Free Tuition for Veterans: South Dakota offers free tuition to certain veterans attending state-supported institutions. This program is for veterans with active duty service in specific conflicts, as outlined in South Dakota Codified Law 13-55-2.

  • State Education Benefits for Veterans' Dependents: Dependents of veterans who are 100% disabled or deceased due to service-related causes may receive free tuition at South Dakota public colleges and universities. This benefit is detailed in South Dakota Codified Law 13-55-10.

  • On-the-Job Training and Apprenticeships: South Dakota offers on-the-job training and apprenticeship programs for veterans transitioning to civilian careers, providing hands-on experience and skill development.

  • Veterans' Educational Counseling: The state provides educational counseling services to veterans, helping them navigate college applications and career paths.

  • Veterans' Scholarship Programs: South Dakota has various scholarships specifically for veterans and their families, including the Dakota Corps Scholarship for those pursuing education in high-demand fields.

  • Continuing Education Support: South Dakota offers continuing education support for veterans seeking additional training or professional development opportunities.

Housing and Employment

  • South Dakota Veterans' Home: The South Dakota Veterans' Home in Hot Springs offers long-term care for veterans and their spouses. This facility provides nursing care, rehabilitation services, and other support.

  • Veterans' Preference in State Employment: South Dakota grants veterans' preference in state employment, providing additional points during the hiring process for veterans and their spouses. This preference is outlined in South Dakota Codified Law 3-3-1.

  • Veterans' Homeownership Programs: South Dakota offers programs to assist veterans in purchasing homes, including VA-backed home loans and first-time homebuyer incentives.

  • Veterans' Employment Services: The state provides job placement services, resume building, and interview preparation for veterans seeking employment in South Dakota.

  • Veterans' Business Resources: South Dakota offers resources and support for veterans interested in starting or growing their own businesses, including access to funding and mentorship programs.

  • Veterans' Housing Assistance Programs: The state has programs to support homeless veterans or those at risk of homelessness, offering emergency housing and transitional housing.

Burials and Memorials

  • South Dakota State Veterans Cemetery: Located in Sioux Falls, this state veterans cemetery provides burial services for eligible veterans and their family members. This includes a burial plot, headstone, and burial services at no cost to the family.

  • Military Funeral Honors: South Dakota ensures that eligible veterans receive military funeral honors, including a ceremonial flag-folding, a rifle salute, and a bugler to play "Taps."

  • Memorial Events: South Dakota holds annual memorial events to honor veterans, including ceremonies on Memorial Day and Veterans Day.

  • Grave Markers and Flags: The state provides grave markers and flags to honor veterans in cemeteries across South Dakota, helping to preserve their memory.

  • Veterans Memorials and Monuments: South Dakota has several monuments dedicated to veterans' service, including the South Dakota Vietnam War Memorial and other sites throughout the state.

  • Gravesite Maintenance Programs: South Dakota has programs to maintain veterans' gravesites, ensuring they are well-kept and respected.

Tax Incentives

  • Vehicle Excise Tax Exemption: Veterans who are 100% disabled due to service-connected disabilities are exempt from paying excise tax on the purchase of one vehicle.

  • No State Income Tax: South Dakota does not have a state income tax, benefiting all residents, including veterans. This feature eliminates state taxes on military pensions and other income sources.

  • Property Tax Exemptions for Senior Veterans: South Dakota provides reduced property taxes for senior veterans, reducing the financial burden on those with fixed incomes.

  • Business Tax Incentives for Veterans' Employers: South Dakota offers business tax incentives to employers who hire veterans, encouraging veteran employment and reducing unemployment rates.

  • Additional Tax Benefits for Military Spouses: The state provides tax benefits for spouses of active-duty military personnel, helping them navigate the financial impact of frequent relocations and deployments.

  • Sales Tax Exemptions for Disabled Veterans: South Dakota offers sales tax exemptions on specific purchases for disabled veterans, including adaptive equipment and mobility aids.

VA Benefit Resources in South Dakota

  • Sioux Falls VA Health Care System: This VA medical center provides a full range of healthcare services to veterans, including primary care, mental health, and specialty services.

  • South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs: This state department offers resources, guidance, and assistance for veterans seeking benefits, housing, education, and more.

  • Veterans Service Officers (VSOs): South Dakota has VSOs in every county who can assist veterans with benefit claims, appeals, and other VA-related matters.

  • VA Community-Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs): South Dakota has several CBOCs that offer healthcare services in locations more accessible to veterans.

  • Veterans' Outreach Programs: South Dakota's veteran outreach programs connect veterans with resources and benefits, providing information sessions and community events.

  • Veterans' Crisis Hotlines and Support Groups: South Dakota offers crisis hotlines and support groups specifically for veterans, addressing mental health and emotional well-being.

South Dakota stands as a steadfast supporter of its veteran community, offering a comprehensive array of disability benefits and support programs. Through financial assistance, educational opportunities, housing support, and employment services, the state honors the service and sacrifice of its veterans and their families. With dedicated agencies and programs in place, South Dakota is committed to helping veterans access the benefits and resources they have earned through their honorable service to the nation. For disabled Veterans seeking VA compensation or additional benefits, consultation with us at ForTheVeteran can offer expert guidance.

How can we help?

We are deeply understand VA Disability Benefits and work closely with you to get you all the benefits you're owed. Our team includes veterans and their families who understand the sacrifices you've made. We know how military service can affect your health, and our goal is to make sure you get the benefits you deserve.