Filing for benefits is rarely easy and can be time-consuming but using this guide and utilizing the resources from dlr.sd.gov/ra and Raclaims.gov will make the application process smoother and provide you with the most information so you're not in the dark about what happens next.
Filing for unemployment benefits is not always 100% easy, but this guide will lead you through the worst of it. Here, you'll learn what information you need to apply, what factors determine your eligibility and how to apply. Ready to apply in South Dakota, where the assistance you need is referred to as Reemployment Assistance? Let's begin.
Needed Information Plus Some Tips
1. Your social security number and driver's license, or other state issued I.D.
2. Your employment history over the previous 18 months, including name, address, and phone number, month and year you worked, pay rate, and reason you're no longer employed.
3. The name and local number of your union hall, if applicable.
4. Alien registration number if you're not a U.S. citizen.
5. Former federal employees need both SF-8 and SF-50.
6. DD-214 if you were in the military.
7. An accurate mailing address and phone number are required for any non- South Dakotan employer.
8. As soon as you're unemployed, apply online or by phone. Those who file online can do so anytime but those who file by phone must use a call in schedule that goes by the first letter of your last name. A-F are Mondays, G-N are Tuesdays and O-Z are Wednesdays. You can call in on Thursdays or Fridays if you miss your day to call.
9. To file by phone call the claims center at 605-626-3179 between 8 a.m. and 4:20 p.m., Monday through Friday. Claimants who are speech or hearing impaired can call 1-800-877-1113. They can also be reached here.
10. Eligibility factors include losing your job through no fault of your own and being willing and able to accept work. You must also register with the state's workforce agency. You must also participate in all reemployment activities. There are other requirements so it's best to contact SD DLR directly with any questions.
After You File
1. You will receive two types of letters and a Reemployment Assistance handbook in the mail. The letters are your weekly benefits and instructions that shows you how to apply for weekly payments.
2. Keep in mind that any correspondence or documents may be time sensitive and could affect your eligibility for benefits.
3. You should receive a final determination for eligibility 21 days after you received your weekly benefits amount and instruction letters.
4. Review the RA handbook and log into your account for any updates to your claim. There are also many resources including how-to video and PDF documents located at dlr.sd.gov/ra under RA for individuals and raclaims.sd.gov.
File Online
1. Go to Raclaims.sd.gov and either log into your existing account or create a new one.
2. For new accounts, choose Apply for Benefits, existing profiles must choose Reopen my Claim.
3. Follow the prompts and enter the requested information. You will have a chance to review your entries and make any edits before you submit your claim.
4. Once you've successfully submitted your claim, you'll receive a confirmation page and a confirmation number which means your claim was accepted for review.
File by Phone
1. Call 605-626-3179 on the day of the week determined by the first letter of your last name and follow the phone prompts to apply.
2. Those who require an interpreter can call RA customer service 605-626-2452 for help.
3. Speech and hearing impaired can call 1-800-877-1113.
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