South Dakota Unemployment Calculator.
Estimate your weekly benefit using South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation's official 2026 formula.
South Dakota Calculator
South Dakota Benefits — 2026
How South Dakota calculates your benefit.
South Dakota uses the Highest Quarter ÷ 20 method to determine your Weekly Benefit Amount (WBA). The calculation uses wages from your base period — typically the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file.
Formula
1. Find the highest-earning quarter
2. Divide by 20
3. Apply min ($28) / max ($672) caps
WBA = max($28, min(HQ ÷ 20, $672))
Base Period
Standard: First 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before filing. If you file in May 2026, your base period is Jan–Dec 2025.
Eligibility requirements.
Minimum earnings: You must have earned at least $728 during your base period.
Job separation: Must have lost your job through no fault of your own (layoff, reduction in force, position eliminated).
Able and available: You must be physically able to work and actively seeking employment.
Ready to file in South Dakota?
File online at South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation
Estimates only. Actual benefits determined by South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation based on official wage records. Data sourced from DOL Significant Provisions · Last verified 2026-01-15 · Not affiliated with any government agency.