South Dakota Health Insurance Guide 2025

Everything you need to know about health coverage in the Mount Rushmore State

Medicaid Expanded (2023)

Key Facts

Medicaid Status Expanded (July 2023)
Marketplace Federal (HealthCare.gov)
Open Enrollment Nov 1 - Jan 15
Uninsured Rate 8.6%

Medicaid Expansion in South Dakota

Exciting news for South Dakotans! South Dakota became one of the most recent states to expand Medicaid after voters approved Constitutional Amendment D in November 2022. Expanded coverage began on July 1, 2023, opening the door to health coverage for tens of thousands of previously uninsured adults.

Voter-driven change: South Dakota's Medicaid expansion was approved directly by voters with 56% support. If you were previously unable to get coverage, you may now qualify! The expansion is estimated to cover approximately 52,000 South Dakotans.

Who Now Qualifies for South Dakota Medicaid?

  • Adults ages 18-64 with income up to 138% FPL ($20,783/year for individuals)
  • Adults without dependent children (this is new under expansion!)
  • South Dakota residents who meet citizenship or immigration requirements
  • Not currently enrolled in Medicare

Medicaid Benefits

South Dakota Medicaid provides comprehensive coverage including:

  • Doctor visits and preventive care
  • Hospital inpatient and outpatient services
  • Emergency services
  • Prescription drug coverage
  • Mental health and substance abuse treatment
  • Laboratory services
  • Maternity and newborn care

How to Apply

You can apply for South Dakota Medicaid through:

  • Online at dss.sd.gov
  • By phone: 1-800-305-3064
  • In person at your local Department of Social Services office
  • Through a certified application counselor or navigator

Health Insurance Marketplace

South Dakota uses the federal Health Insurance Marketplace at HealthCare.gov. If you earn more than 138% FPL or prefer private coverage, the marketplace offers various plan options with premium tax credits available.

Check both options: With Medicaid expansion now in effect, you may qualify for free Medicaid coverage instead of a marketplace plan. Always check Medicaid eligibility first, as it typically provides more comprehensive coverage at lower or no cost.

Available Plan Types

  • Bronze: Lower premiums, higher out-of-pocket costs (60% coverage)
  • Silver: Moderate premiums and costs (70% coverage) - best for subsidies
  • Gold: Higher premiums, lower out-of-pocket costs (80% coverage)
  • Platinum: Highest premiums, lowest out-of-pocket costs (90% coverage)

Enrollment Periods

Open Enrollment: November 1, 2024 - January 15, 2025

South Dakota Medicaid accepts applications year-round, so you can apply anytime you think you might qualify.

Average Costs in South Dakota

Health insurance costs in South Dakota vary based on your age, location, plan type, and tobacco use. Here are typical monthly premiums before subsidies:

Plan Type Individual (Age 40) Family of 4
Bronze $450 - $530 $1,400 - $1,700
Silver $550 - $650 $1,750 - $2,100
Gold $640 - $750 $2,000 - $2,400
South Dakota Medicaid $0 $0
Rural state considerations: South Dakota's marketplace may have fewer carriers, particularly in rural areas. However, premium tax credits are designed to ensure at least one affordable plan option is available everywhere in the state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Has South Dakota expanded Medicaid?

Yes! South Dakota expanded Medicaid in July 2023 after voters approved expansion in November 2022. Adults ages 18-64 earning up to 138% of the federal poverty level ($20,783 for an individual in 2025) now qualify for Medicaid coverage.

When did South Dakota expand Medicaid?

South Dakota voters approved Medicaid expansion in November 2022 through Constitutional Amendment D. Expanded coverage became effective on July 1, 2023. This makes South Dakota one of the most recent states to expand Medicaid.

When is Open Enrollment for South Dakota health insurance?

Open Enrollment for 2025 marketplace coverage runs from November 1, 2024 through January 15, 2025. South Dakota uses the federal marketplace at HealthCare.gov. South Dakota Medicaid accepts applications year-round.

How much does health insurance cost in South Dakota?

The average monthly premium for a benchmark Silver plan in South Dakota is approximately $550-650 before subsidies. Many South Dakota residents qualify for premium tax credits or now qualify for free coverage through Medicaid expansion.

Need Help Finding South Dakota Coverage?

Our licensed agents can help you determine if you qualify for the new Medicaid expansion or find the best marketplace plan for your situation.

Get Free Assistance