South Dakota unemployment calculator
Estimate your South Dakota unemployment benefit: 1/26 of your highest quarter of wages, from $28 to $575 a week for up to 26 weeks. July 2026 rules.
- ๐บ๐ธ US federal & state rules
- DOL state law summary, July 2026
- See sources
Estimated South Dakota weekly benefit
$461.54
your highest quarter ร 1/26
- Maximum weeks
- 26
- Total over the claim
- $12,000
- Per month
- $1,998
This is an example. Enter your numbers above and press the button to see your own result.
South Dakota rules
| Minimum weekly benefit | $28 |
|---|---|
| Maximum weekly benefit | $575 |
| Weeks | 15 to 26 |
| Waiting week | yes, one unpaid week |
| Dependents allowance | no |
- Duration in South Dakota ranges from 15 to 26 weeks depending on your base period wages. The total shown uses the maximum.
- Based on the U.S. Department of Labor summary of state laws, July 2026. Benefits are taxable income, and eligibility depends on why you left the job and whether you are looking for work.
Show the math
| Highest quarter | $12,000 |
|---|---|
| Second highest quarter | $11,000 |
| Base period total | $43,000 |
| Formula | your highest quarter ร 1/26 |
| Before limits | $461.54 |
| Weekly benefit | $461.54 |
What to do next
How it works
South Dakota sets the weekly benefit as 1/26 of your highest quarter of wages. The result is limited to a minimum of $28 and a maximum of $575 and paid for up to 26 weeks. Enter the wages from your base period quarters and the calculator applies that formula.
Things to keep in mind
The base period is usually the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file. Your highest quarter drives most formulas, so check your pay stubs for the quarter where you earned the most.
Figures come from the U.S. Department of Labor's summary of state laws, July 2026. The South Dakota agency makes the actual determination, and benefits are taxable income.
Sources
Rules applied as of 2026-07-01. See the sources below for details.
- Significant Provisions of State UI Laws, Effective July 2026Checked 2026-10-19
Frequently asked questions
How much is unemployment in South Dakota?
The weekly benefit is 1/26 of your highest quarter of wages, with a minimum of $28 and a maximum of $575. Benefits last up to 26 weeks.
How long does unemployment last in South Dakota?
Between 15 and 26 weeks. The number depends on your base period earnings.
Can I work part time and still collect in South Dakota?
Yes, with a reduced benefit. South Dakota disregards part of your earnings and reduces the benefit for the rest. Enter your weekly earnings above to see the effect.
Is there a waiting week in South Dakota?
Yes. The first eligible week is unpaid in South Dakota, so the first payment arrives after the second week of the claim.