South Dakota Unemployment Benefits (2026): Weekly Amount, Duration & Calculator
As of January 1, 2026, unemployment benefits in South Dakota range from $28 to $553 per week, payable for 15–26 weeks. Your weekly benefit amount is 1/26 of your high-quarter wages.
Estimate your weekly benefit
How South Dakota calculates your benefit
Weekly benefit amount: 1/26 of your high-quarter wages.
To qualify (earnings requirement): $728 in your high quarter; 20 × WBA outside your high quarter. You must also be unemployed through no fault of your own, and be able to work, available for work, and actively seeking work.
Total benefits on the claim: The lesser of ⅓ of base-period wages or 26 × WBA.
Working part-time: the South Dakota partial-benefit rule
If you work reduced hours, South Dakota disregards part of your earnings before reducing your check: ¼ of wages over $25 (i.e., $25 plus a quarter of the rest is disregarded). Use the calculator to see what a part-time week would pay.
How South Dakota compares
South Dakota's $553 maximum ranks #31 of 53 U.S. jurisdictions. The highest maximums nationally:
- Washington — up to $1,152/week
- Massachusetts — up to $1,105/week
- New Jersey — up to $905/week
- Oregon — up to $872/week
- New York — up to $869/week
See the full state-by-state table.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum unemployment benefit in South Dakota?
The maximum weekly benefit amount in South Dakota is $553 as of January 1, 2026, payable for 15–26 weeks.
How is the weekly benefit calculated in South Dakota?
1/26 of your high-quarter wages. The result is capped between $28 and $553 per week.
Can I work part-time and still get unemployment in South Dakota?
Yes, if you earn less than your weekly benefit amount and remain otherwise eligible. South Dakota disregards the following before reducing your check: ¼ of wages over $25 (i.e., $25 plus a quarter of the rest is disregarded).
Does severance affect unemployment in South Dakota?
It depends on how the severance is characterized and paid. Some states delay or reduce benefits during weeks covered by severance or wages in lieu of notice; others do not. Report any severance when you file and let the agency make the determination — see our severance guide for how this generally works.
How long do unemployment benefits last in South Dakota?
Between 15 and 26 weeks of regular benefits, depending on your earnings history.