South Dakota Unemployment Calculator
Estimate your South Dakota weekly unemployment benefit. South Dakota's maximum is $553/week for up to 26 weeks. Results are estimates — South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation makes the official determination.
Estimate My Weekly Benefit
This is an estimate only. Your actual benefit depends on your specific base period wages, employer records, and South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation's determination. File your claim to get the official amount.
File your South Dakota claim at South Dakota UI →South Dakota unemployment benefits: what you need to know
South Dakota has no state income tax, though UI benefits remain federally taxable. Low overall unemployment in the state typically means faster claim processing. Agricultural and meat-processing workers are significant claimant groups.
South Dakota pays a maximum of $553/week and a minimum of $28/week. Your amount is set by your base-period earnings, capped at the state maximum.
Up to 26 weeks under standard conditions. At the maximum rate, that is about $14,378 total.
South Dakota has a one-week unpaid waiting period. File and certify for it anyway — payment begins the following eligible week.
3 contacts per week must be documented to stay eligible. Keep a dated log.
South Dakota Unemployment FAQ
How much unemployment can I get in South Dakota?
In South Dakota, the maximum weekly benefit is $553 and the minimum is $28. Your actual weekly benefit amount is based on your earnings during your base period (typically the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters). Use the estimator above to get an approximate figure, then confirm the exact amount with South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation after you file.
How long do unemployment benefits last in South Dakota?
South Dakota provides up to 26 weeks of regular unemployment benefits under standard conditions. If you exhaust regular benefits, ask South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation whether any extended programs are currently active.
Is there a waiting week for unemployment in South Dakota?
Yes. South Dakota imposes a one-week unpaid waiting period. You still need to file and certify for that week, but it is not paid. Payments begin from the second eligible week.
How many job search contacts are required each week in South Dakota?
South Dakota requires 3 work search contacts per week to remain eligible while collecting benefits. Keep a dated log of each activity (employer name, date, method of contact) in case South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation audits your claim.
How do I file an unemployment claim in South Dakota?
File with South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation online at https://dlr.sd.gov/ra/ or by phone at 605-626-2452. Have your Social Security number, employer information for the last 18 months, reason for separation, and bank details for direct deposit ready. File the same week you lose your job — most states pay from the week you file, not the week your job ended.