South Dakota energy assistance resources

Helping others strengthens us all. So, when life doesn’t go as planned, we’re ready to support you. Whether you're looking for ways to lower your energy bills or need financial help, we’re here to help. Explore our range of energy assistance programs and resources designed to help you stay safe, be prepared and save energy.

How do I get help with my energy bill in South Dakota?

If you need help paying your energy bill, start with the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP). Eligible South Dakota households may receive help with heating costs, including assistance for an energy emergency.

Applications can be submitted online or through the mail and eligibility is determined by income and household need.

Apply for LIEAP online

Need help getting started?

Review eligibility requirements, required documents and download a copy of the LIEAP application.

View application with instructions

Bill payment help for low-income households

After you’ve applied for LIEAP, here are more resources that may be available to you.

Black Hills Cares

Black Hills Cares helps eligible customers in need pay their Black Hills Energy bills or emergency energy-related expenses. The program uses voluntary donations from our customers and employees.

Black Hills Cares

Help starts here - 211.org

211 is a nationwide service that connects millions of people to help each year. They provide a local source of social services available to help with utility bill payment assistance, housing options, food and nutrition programs, support groups and much more.

VISIT 211 SITE

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Here to help

Need help navigating options? Contact us and a Black Hills Energy representative will help you explore the support that is available to you.

Additional resources for utility help in South Dakota

South Dakota Department of Social Services

The South Dakota Department of Social Services reminds families dealing with financial stress, there are economic assistance programs available through DSS that may help.

Visit DSS site

South Dakota Housing Development Authority

The State of South Dakota in collaboration with SD Housing Development Authority, Helpline Center and partner agencies, are making available CARES Act funding to assist South Dakota residents with housing expenses.

Visit SDHousing site

Budget Billing

Budget Billing is a free, stable payment plan. It gives you more predictable bills by averaging the amount you pay each month.

Budget Billing

Payment arrangements

We understand that a variety of circumstances can lead to a late payment, and we’re here to help you get back on track by offering payment arrangements.

Payment arrangements

Other resources

Medical Extension program

This program is available to residential customers whose utility service is medically essential, as certified by a licensed physician, to avoid death or serious medical complications requiring immediate hospitalization.

Medical Extension program

Save money

We have all kinds of programs to help you save money and energy. Find out how you can lower your energy costs, make your home more comfortable and reduce your energy use.

Save money

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Understanding your bill

We want to help you understand the information on your energy bill so you can see ways you can save.

Understanding your bill

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Monitor your energy usage

See where you’re using the most energy and where you can save – right in your Black Hills Energy account.

Monitor your energy usage