Work With Trusted & Experienced
South Dakota Public Adjusters That Work For You!
100% Contingency Based. We Don't Get Paid Unless YOU Get Paid!
*Some Services Not Available In All Areas.
Get The HIGHEST & Most FAIR Settlement Amount ... That You Are Legally Entitled To ... From Your Insurance Claim!
Get a free on-site inspection & insurance policy evaluation from one of our expert public insurance claims adjusters!
Work with highly trained & vetted South Dakota public adjusters who are state-licensed, bonded, and trained to handle all residential or commercial insurance claims, big or small!
Public Claims Adjusters Network (PCAN) member public insurance claims adjusters in South Dakota offer technical and detailed expertise that has satisfied countless homeowners, business owners, condominium associations, property management companies, and HOAs.
Our network members have years of experience dealing with insurance companies. Many of our network’s public adjusters also have previous backgrounds in construction and/or insurance, giving them a significant advantage in quickly securing the highest claim settlement compensation for their clients.
They know what to look for, what repairs actually cost, and what the insurance company’s adjusters tend to ignore (and hope you don’t know about!).
Consultations are always:
- Friendly
- Free
- No-Obligation
- 100% contingency-based In Nearly Every State
… meaning your public adjuster doesn’t get paid, unless you get paid!*
PCAN public adjusters take pride in providing superior customer service, and clear & friendly communication. Please fill out our contact form to schedule a no-obligation consultation with one of our network’s licensed & verified South Dakota public adjusters today!
*Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency Fee Not Permitted By Law In Lousianna. By law, services in Kansas are only available for commercial claims.
Request A Free Consultation!
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*Some Services May Not Be Available In All Areas. Contingency fees are not permitted by law in Louisiana. Public Claims Adjusters Network (PCAN) is not a Public Adjusting Agency. PCAN is a private network of stringently vetted, state-licensed, bonded, and PCAN Verified public adjusters with members Nationwide. Your contact request will be matched to one of our verified member public adjusters serving the South Dakota community, to ensure the highest quality of service & care.
Higher Claim Payouts When Using A Public Adjuster According To Landmark OPPAGA Study!
Contingency Based. We don’t get paid, unless you get paid!
*Not All Services Available In Every Area. Contingency fees not permitted by law in the State of Louisiana.
Why Hire A Public Insurance Claims Adjuster In South Dakota?
South Dakota Public Adjusters Help Get You The HIGHEST & Most Fair Settlement Amount (That You Are Legally Entitled To) From Your Homeowners, Roofing, Condo & HOA, & Business Insurance Claims!
Get a Free On-Site Inspection & Insurance Policy Evaluation From One Of Our Expert South Dakota Public Claims Adjuster Members Today!
- Save You Time & Help Speed Up The Claim Process
- Help Alleviate Stress & Walk You Through The Whole Process
- Negotiate With The Insurance Company & Make Sure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible*
- Prepare & File All The Necessary Documents, And Handle All The Necessary Follow-up's
*Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
What Our Network Of Licensed South Dakota Public Insurance Adjusters Bring To The Table
South Dakota Insurance Policy Claims Specialists
PCAN member public insurance adjusters have years of experience in claims & reviewing coverages. As such, they understand the numerous types of policies and endorsements you may experience when dealing with your claim in South Dakota. Their expertise allows them to find & utalize the various coverages your policy may have, and in many cases, inform you of coverage & clauses you may not even know about.
Advocates For South Dakota Homeonwers Insurance Policy Holders
PCAN member public claims adjusters advocate for your rights as the policy holder. They ensure that the clients’ rights are being protected throughout the claims process, and make sure you get all the benefits you are entitled to based on your policy. Public adjusters are there with you every step of the way!
Experts In Seen & Unseen Damages
PCAN member public insurance claims adjusters in South Dakota have years of experience identifying damage, and in most cases, come from professional construction, roofing, and insurance backgrounds. As such, they are able to find & isolate damages that you may not even know to look for, or know would/should be covered by your policy! They also incorporate the latest assessment techniques & technology when conducting their property inspections.
Expert Negotiators
Settlement negotiation is critically important when it comes to the claims process. Public adjusters in South Dakota know how the insurance companies think, and come to the negotiation table fully prepared to defend & enforce your rights. PCAN member public insurance claims adjusters have the expertise and experience in claims negotiations to ensure that you get what you are actually entitled to under your policy ... not what the insurance company tells you that you are, based on their own interests. When the insurance company plays hardball or puts up a fight, your public adjuster won't be afraid to get in that ring and fight them for what's rightfully yours!
Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
The Homeowners Insurance Claims Recovery Process In South Dakota
South Dakota state-licensed public claims adjusters are fluent in “Insurance Policy Jargon”, and will guide you through the entire property insurance claims process, while they fight to make sure you get the highest & most fair compensation possible for your claim!
View 7-Step Claims Recovery Process Map
Step #1
Make Sure Your Family Is Safe
When disaster strikes, the priority is to make sure your family is safe. Always have an emergency bag!
Step #2
Contact A PCAN Public Adjuster In South Dakota
Contact one of the PCAN verified and state-licensed public insurance adjusters to schedule an appointment for them to come out & meet with you to inspect the damage.
Step #3
Thorough Review Of Your Policy
Your public insurance adjuster will conduct a comprehensive review of your policy, note any coverage restrictions, coinsurance requirements, limitations, and review additional options that may be available to you.
Step #4
Create A Claims Strategy That Works For Your Specific Goals & Needs
Your public claims adjuster will discuss what is most important to you when it comes to your claim, then create & tailor the right claims strategy to take care of your family.
Step #5
We Take Care Of All Insurance Related Paperwork, Negotiations, & Follow Up.
Once you have agreed on a strategy, your public adjuster will:
- Meet with insurance company adjusters & personnel at the loss/damage location.
- Agree to the scope of damages & make sure that they are including all the damages in the scope, as well as clearly deciding on what should be repaired vs. replaced.
- Prepare a detailed reconstruction estimate.
- Prepare a detailed inventory of personal property.
Step #6
Negotiations & Final Settlement
Your public adjuster will work to make sure you receive the highest settlement possible under your specific insurance policy.
Step #7
Restoration | Reconstruction | Relocation
Your public claims adjuster will negotiate with the insurance company to ensure that you can achieve your specific goals. Whether that’s full or partial restoration, rebuilding your property, or a full-relocation.
(Click To Expand Infographic)
Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About South Dakota Public Adjusting
What Are South Dakota Public Adjusters, & What Do They Do?
South Dakota Public adjusters are licensed insurance professionals who work on their own to defend policy holders throughout the insurance claims process. According to the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) the professionals serve as advocates for property owners and ensure their rights are secured in dealing with insurance companies.
The function of public adjusters has become more important over the last few years, particularly as insurance claims grow more complex. A landmark study by the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA) found that policyholders who used public adjusters received settlements up to 800% higher over those who managed claims themselves.
Public adjusters provide comprehensive services throughout the claim process. They conduct detailed damage assessments, and prepare and file the necessary documentation, and manage all communication with insurance companies. This kind of professional assistance significantly cuts down the stress and time associated with filing claims, allowing policyholders owners to focus on recovery.
Operating mostly on a basis of contingency fees that typically range between 10 and 20% of the final settlement, public adjusters are paid to ensure the most compensation for their clients. The fee structure differs according to the complexity of the claim state regulations, as well as the amount of resources needed.
These professionals possess extensive knowledge of insurance policies, and building codes, as well as construction costs. They apply this knowledge to:
- Speed up the claims process
- Document and evaluate the damages thoroughly
- Navigate complex policy language
- Negotiate directly with insurance companies
- Be sure to comply with deadlines for filing and additional policy requirements
Research has clearly shown that professional representation during the claims process usually results in more comprehensive settlements and faster claim resolution times. Public adjusters’ understanding of insurance regulations and industry practices can prevent common mistakes that could hinder or delay settlements.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees are not accepted in Louisiana.
Will My Settlement Be Larger If I Hire A South Dakota Public Adjusting Company?
Industry research and industry analysis show the hiring of a public insurance adjuster can dramatically increase policyholder claim settlements. According to a landmark research study by the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA), policyholders who utilized public adjusters received settlements up to 800% more that those who managed claims themselves.
Public adjusters in South Dakota serve as licensed professionals who advocate exclusively for policyholders throughout the claims process. The National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) states that these state-licensed professionals offer detailed claim management services, including precise documentation of property damage, policy interpretation, as well as settlement negotiations with insurance carriers.
The importance of a professional representation becomes particularly evident in the final settlement figures, as professionally managed claims usually produce more detailed damage estimates, and more accurate valuations of losses.
Public adjusters streamline the claims process by:
- Managing all correspondence and documentation with insurance companies
- Conducting thorough property damage assessments
- Preparing comprehensive claim submissions
- Negotiating directly with insurance companies
- Accelerating the settlement timeline
- Ensuring compliance with policy requirements and deadlines
The majority of public adjusters work on the contingency fee basis, which typically range from 10% to 20 percent of the final settlement amount. The fee structure is aligned with the interests of the adjuster with those of the policyholder, as their compensation depends on securing a favorable settlement outcome.
A Public adjuster’s expertise often is invaluable in complicated claims scenarios, where technical knowledge of building codes, construction costs, & insurance policy provisions can have a major impact on settlement outcomes.
Their expertise and oversight ensure no insured damages are overlooked and that claims are properly assessed according to the current market conditions.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees are not permitted in Louisiana.
How Much Do South Dakota Public Adjusters Charge?
Public adjusters typically operate on a contingency fee basis, charging between 10% to 20% of the final insurance claim settlement. According to the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA), these fees vary based on claim complexity, state regulations, and required resources. The contingency fee structure ensures that public adjusters’ interests align directly with those of their clients, as their compensation depends on securing favorable settlements.
Before engagement, policyholders should carefully review fee arrangements and contract terms, ensuring clear understanding of the service agreement. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), public adjusters must maintain state licenses and adhere to strict professional standards, providing an additional layer of consumer protection. Their role becomes particularly valuable in complex claims where specialized knowledge can significantly impact settlement outcomes.
A landmark study by the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA) demonstrated that policyholders who engaged public adjusters received settlements up to 800% higher than those who handled claims independently. This significant difference underscores the value these professionals bring to the claims process.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
When Should You Hire A Public Claims Adjuster In South Dakota?
Complex insurance claims often require expert knowledge to effectively navigate. Public insurance adjusters, state-licensed professionals who solely work on behalf of policyholders, can have a significant impact on the outcome of claims and settlement amount.
A variety of scenarios could require the use of a public adjuster:
- Property damage that is extensive
- Claims that involve multiple coverage types
- Disputed claims or partial claim denials
- Complex requirements for documentation
- Situations that are time-sensitive and require immediate attention
Public adjusters streamline the claims process by:
- Conducting thorough damage assessments
- The preparation and filing of required documentation
- Communication with insurance companies
- Settlement negotiations on behalf of the policyholders
- Ensuring compliance with the policy guidelines and deadlines
Public adjusters particularly benefit policyholders by:
- Reducing stress by utilizing professional claim management
- Speeding up the settlement process
- Providing independent damage assessment
- Ensuring comprehensive documentation
- Leveraging industry expertise for fair settlements
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
When Is It Too Late To Hire A South Dakota Public Adjuster?
Navigating the insurance claims process requires careful timing and professional expertise. Understanding when to engage a South Dakota public adjuster can significantly impact claim outcomes and settlement amounts. According to the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA), policyholders can benefit from hiring a public adjuster at any point during an active claim, though earlier engagement typically yields better results.
Key timing considerations include:
Statute of Limitations:
- Each state maintains different deadlines for filing insurance claims
- Claims must be initiated within these legal timeframes
- Public adjusters can assist with existing claims, even if initially filed independently
Documentation Requirements:
- Public adjusters help organize and prepare comprehensive claim documentation
- They can recover or reconstruct missing documentation
- Professional documentation improves claim validity and settlement potential
Claim Status:
- Active claims benefit from professional representation
- Denied claims may be reopened with proper documentation
- Disputed settlements can be renegotiated
Public adjusters provide valuable services throughout the claims process Including:
- Expedited claim processing through professional management
- Expert negotiation with insurance carriers
- Complete documentation preparation and submission
- Regular communication with insurance companies
- Stress reduction through professional claim handling
- Maximum settlement potential through experienced representation
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
Why hire a Public Adjuster In South Dakota if the insurance company already sent an adjuster?
The choice to engage a state-licensed public claims adjuster, even when an insurance company has appointed its own adjuster, could greatly affect the final outcome of an insurance claim.
While insurance company adjusters work for the insurance company’s interests … public adjusters serve as dedicated advocates for policyholders. The National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) highlights that these state-licensed & regulated adjusters operate independently to ensure fair settlements of claims and complete coverage interpretation.
Public adjusters streamline the claims process by coordinating the documentation as well as making comprehensive damage assessments, and coordinating all communications with insurance companies. This professional intervention typically speeds up claim resolution and decreases homeowners burdens on administrative tasks.
The importance of public adjusters isn’t only limited to monetary benefits. They offer professional guidance throughout the claims process, providing complex policy terms and ensuring every damage is properly documented and assessed.
They make specific damage estimates, gather necessary evidence, and deal directly with insurance companies for the highest settlement outcome.
Insurance claims are complicated and time-consuming and require a professional’s assistance, which makes their representation valuable during significant loss events. Public adjusters’ expertise in negotiation and policy interpretation usually results in more comprehensive settlements that take into account both obvious and concealed damages.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees are not permitted in Louisiana.
Can I File My Insurance Claim Myself In South Dakota?
While policyholders have the right to file insurance claims on their own, research from industry experts suggest that this method may not produce optimal results.
Key challenges of self-filing include:
- Complex documentation requirements and policy interpretation
- Time-intensive communication with insurance representatives
- Risk of overlooking covered damages or benefits
- Potential undervaluation of claims by insurance companies
- Limited-to-zero negotiation experience with insurers
licensed public adjusters offer important advantages to the claim process:
-
- Professional Documentation and Assessment – Public adjusters thoroughly document damages, prepare comprehensive claim files, and manage all necessary paperwork, making sure no detail is left unnoticed.
- Time and Stress Management – These professionals manage all communication with insurance companies, allowing homeowners to focus on recovery while expediting the process of filing claims.
- Expert Negotiation – With extensive knowledge of regulations and rules governing insurance policies, public adjusters negotiate directly with insurance companies to secure fair settlements.
- Cost-Effective Service – Public adjusters typically work on a contingency-fee basis, usually ranging from 10-20% of the settlement amount, ensuring that the interests of the policyholder are protected.
The National Association of State Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) recognizes public adjusters as licensed professionals who represent the interests of policyholders during the process of settling claims. Their expertise can be particularly valuable in complex claims or when significant damages are involved.
Industry statistics consistently demonstrate that professional representation by state-licensed public adjusters leads to better outcomes for policy holders, with faster processing times, and more complete settlement packages.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
In South Dakota, Can My Contractor Represent Me Against My Insurance Company?
While contractors often offer negotiations with insurers this strategy can have significant limitations and potential risks. According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), contractors do not have the legal authority and know-how to act as representative for insurers in claims negotiations.
This limitation could significantly impact the result of a case and potentially limit any rights granted to the owner of the policy.
Departments of insurance in each state regulate licensed public adjusters, who go through extremely specialized training, undergo Federal background checks, and require special licensing from the state to operate. They also have the legal authority to represent the policyholder in order to protect and defend their rights … legal authority that contractors do not have … which makes them the legal alternative to contractor representation.
Public Adjusters specialize in the interpretation of insurance policies, documenting damages, and working with insurance companies to guarantee fair settlements.
Public adjusters provide several distinct advantages, which include:
- Expert claim documents and filing
- Professional negotiation with insurance companies
- Comprehensive damage assessment
- Faster claim processing
- Stress reduction through complete claim management
The National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) insists on the fact that public claims adjusters need to maintain professional licenses and follow strict ethical standards, thereby providing the additional level of consumer protection that is not offered by contractor representation.
For claims that are complex for complex claims, adjusters are experts in policy interpretation, documentation requirements and negotiation techniques often is invaluable, and can help avoid costly errors and denials of claims which could result from negotiation led by contractors.
Disclaimer: Some Services Are are not available in all Areas. Contingency fees are not available for Louisiana.
I Already Settled My Claim, But It Wasn’t Enough Money To Cover The Damages. Is It Too Late To Get More?
If insurance settlements are not sufficient to compensate for damages to property, the policyholder has a variety of legal options to seek additional compensation, even after the initial settlement of claim.
As per the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), policyholders should carefully evaluate their settlement terms and related documentation before accepting the final settlement payment.
The timing and the circumstances for seeking additional compensation are crucial factors, as most insurance policies have specific deadlines for claims disputes and appeals, typically ranging from one to two years after the settlement date.
Licensed public insurance adjusters are essential in re-evaluating settlement claims and in identifying overlooked damages. Public adjusters perform thorough assessments of property damages, document any additional damages, and negotiate with insurance carriers for policyholders.
Important steps to pursue additional compensation are:
- Document newly discovered damages
- Review of policy terms and settlement agreements
- Gather additional evidence and estimations
- Request professional representation from a state-licensed public insurance claims adjusters
The National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) emphasizes that public adjusters are often able to spot overlooked damages and policy provisions that allow for an additional amount of compensation. Their experience in the interpretation of policies and the valuation of claims proves particularly valuable in defending claims that have already been settled.
Policyholders should respond quickly upon discovering insufficient settlement amounts, as delay could hinder their ability to collect additional compensation. When utilizing a public adjuster’s services, the claim review and negotiation process typically progresses more efficiently than policyholder-directed efforts.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
Can My Insurance Company Cancel My Contract If I Use a Public Adjuster In South Dakota?
When insurance settlements fail to compensate for damages to property, policyholders have a range of legal options for seeking further compensation following the initial claim settlement.
According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), policyholders should carefully evaluate their settlement terms and related documents prior to accepting the final settlement.
The timing and the circumstances for the pursuit of additional compensation are important factors, as the majority of insurance policies include specific deadlines for claims disputes or appeals, typically ranging from one to two years after the settlement date.
Licensed public insurance adjusters are crucial in re-evaluating settlement claims and identifying overlooked damages. Public adjusters carry out thorough assessments of property damages, as well as document any additional damage, and deal with insurance companies in the interest of policyholders.
Key steps for pursuing additional compensation are:
- Document newly discovered damages
- Review policy terms and settlement agreements
- Gather additional evidence and estimates
- Consider professional representation from a state-licensed public adjusters
The National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) emphasizes that public adjusters can often identify overlooked damages and policy provisions that allow for additional compensation. Their experience in the interpretation of policies and claim valuation proves particularly valuable when challenging settled claims.
The policyholder should take action immediately after discovering inadequate settlement amounts, as a delay may hinder their ability to collect additional compensation. When utilizing a public adjuster’s services, the claim review and negotiation process typically progresses more efficiently than policyholder-directed efforts.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
Discover How South Dakota Public Claims Adjusters Can Get You More From These Types Of Homeowners Insurance Claims
Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
Read The Latest Articles Related To Your Specific Claim
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- All
- Adjusting
- Basement
- Black Mold
- Business Interruption
- CA
- Ceiling Damage
- Commercial Property Damage
- Condo Association
- Contractors
- Denied Insurance Claims
- Earthquake Damage
- Fire Damage
- Flood Damage
- Foundation Damage
- Hail
- Hail Damage
- Homeowners Association
- Homeowners Insurance
- Hurricane
- Hurricane Damage
- Inspections
- Installation
- Insurance
- Insurance FAQ
- Lightning
- Mitigation
- Mold Damage
- New Claims
- Property Damage
- Public Adjusting Guides
- Remediation
- Repairs
- Replacement
- Roof Damage
- Roof Leaks
- Sewer Lines
- Sinkhole Damage
- Slab Leak
- Solar Panels
- Storm Damage
- Storms
- Structural Damage
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- Theft
- Tordano Damage
- Tornado
- TX
- Underpaid Insurance Claims
- Vandalism
- Water Damage
- Water Lines And Pipes
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A glossary of insurance terms provides insight to policyholders of critical terms and definitions commonly used to clarify various aspects of coverage and claims.
Key concepts include such terms as Actual Cash Value, a method for determining compensation based on replacement costs minus recoverable depreciation, and ALE (Additional Living Expenses), which cover necessary living costs when a home is uninhabitable.
For example, understanding your homeowners insurance declaration page, common homeowners insurance claim deductibles for various kinds of home & property damage, the general policy exclusions standard in many homeowners insurance policies, can bring much-needed awareness & clarity to policyholders of potential home insurance terms and definitions that may affect their claim outcomes. For example, knowing which key documents (such as photographs and receipts) are essential for substantiating claims.
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Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
Learn More About Beautiful South Dakota
South Dakota
Dakȟóta itókaga (Lakota) | |
---|---|
Nickname: The Mount Rushmore State (official) | |
Motto(s): Under God, the People Rule | |
Anthem: “Hail, South Dakota!“ | |
Location of South Dakota within the United States | |
Country | United States |
Before statehood | Dakota Territory |
Admitted to the Union | November 2, 1889 (40th) |
Capital | Pierre |
Largest city | Sioux Falls |
Largest county or equivalent | Minnehaha County |
Largest metro and urban areas | Sioux Falls |
Government | |
• Governor | Larry Rhoden (R) |
• Lieutenant Governor | Tony Venhuizen (R) |
Legislature | South Dakota Legislature |
• Upper house | Senate |
• Lower house | House of Representatives |
Judiciary | South Dakota Supreme Court |
U.S. senators | John Thune (R) Mike Rounds (R) |
U.S. House delegation | Dusty Johnson (R) (list) |
Area | |
• Total | 77,116 sq mi (199,729 km) |
• Land | 75,811 sq mi (196,350 km) |
• Water | 1,305 sq mi (3,379 km) 1.7% |
• Rank | 17th |
Dimensions | |
• Length | 380 mi (610 km) |
• Width | 210 mi (340 km) |
Elevation | 2,200 ft (670 m) |
Highest elevation | 7,244 ft (2,208 m) |
Lowest elevation (Big Stone Lake on Minnesota border) | 968 ft (295 m) |
Population (2024) | |
• Total | |
• Rank | 46th |
• Density | 11.50/sq mi (4.44/km) |
• Rank | 46th |
• Median household income | $71,800 (2023) |
• Income rank | 33rd |
Demonym | South Dakotan |
Language | |
• Official language | English, Sioux (official indigenous language) |
• Spoken language | English, Spanish (2.06%), Dakota (1.39%), German (1.37%) |
Time zones | |
eastern half | UTC−06:00 (Central) |
• Summer (DST) | UTC−05:00 (CDT) |
western half | UTC−07:00 (Mountain) |
• Summer (DST) | UTC−06:00 (MDT) |
USPS abbreviation | SD |
ISO 3166 code | US-SD |
Traditional abbreviation | S.D., S.Dak. |
Latitude | 42°29′ N to 45°56′ N |
Longitude | 96°26′ W to 104°03′ W |
Website | sd |
South Dakota (; Sioux: Dakȟóta itókaga, pronounced [daˈkˣota iˈtokaga]) is a landlocked state in the North Central region of the United States. It is also part of the Great Plains. South Dakota is named after the Dakota Sioux tribe, which comprises a large portion of the population — with nine reservations currently in the state — and has historically dominated the territory. South Dakota is the 17th-largest by area, but the fifth-least populous, and the fifth-least densely populated of the 50 United States. Pierre is the state capital, and Sioux Falls, with a population of about 213,900, is South Dakota’s most populous city. The state is bisected by the Missouri River, dividing South Dakota into two geographically and socially distinct halves, known to residents as “East River” and “West River“. South Dakota is bordered by North Dakota to the north, Minnesota to the east, Iowa to the southeast, Nebraska to the south, Wyoming to the west, and Montana to the northwest.
Humans have inhabited the area for several millennia, with the Sioux becoming dominant by the early 19th century. In the late 19th century, European-American settlement intensified after a gold rush in the Black Hills and the construction of railroads from the east. Encroaching miners and settlers triggered a number of Indian wars, ending with the Wounded Knee Massacre in 1890. As the southern part of the former Dakota Territory, South Dakota became a state on November 2, 1889, simultaneously with North Dakota. They are the 39th and 40th states admitted to the union; President Benjamin Harrison shuffled the statehood papers before signing them so that no one could tell which became a state first.
Key events in the 20th century included the Dust Bowl and Great Depression, increased federal spending during the 1940s and 1950s for agriculture and defense, and an industrialization of agriculture that has reduced family farming. Eastern South Dakota is home to most of the state’s population, and the area’s fertile soil is used to grow a variety of crops. West of the Missouri River, ranching is the predominant agricultural activity, and the economy is more dependent on tourism and defense spending. Most of the Native American reservations are in West River. The Black Hills, a group of low pine-covered mountains sacred to the Sioux, is in the southwest part of the state. Mount Rushmore, a major tourist destination, is there. South Dakota has a temperate continental climate, with four distinct seasons and precipitation levels ranging from moderate in the east to semi-arid in the west. The state’s ecology features species typical of a North American grassland biome.
While several Democrats have historically represented South Dakota for multiple terms in both chambers of Congress, the state government is largely controlled by the Republican Party, whose nominees have carried South Dakota in each of the last 14 presidential elections. Historically dominated by an agricultural economy and a rural lifestyle, South Dakota has recently sought to diversify its economy in other areas to both attract and retain residents. South Dakota’s history and rural character still strongly influence the state’s culture.
SourceOur Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.