Final Steps Help

South Dakota · 66 counties

When someone dies in South Dakota

Two things matter first: getting certified death certificates, and, if money is short, reaching the burial assistance program in the county where the death happened. Pick your county below for exact contacts.

The paperwork

Death certificates in South Dakota

Order certified copies from the South Dakota vital records office. The CDC keeps the official directory of every state office: find the South Dakota vital records office. The funeral home can also order copies for you. Most families need about 10.

Planning ahead

Nobody has died yet? Set up a power of attorney

If someone you love is aging or ill, the cheapest protection your family can get is a power of attorney, and it must happen while they can still sign. We cover South Dakota's exact rules and official forms.

South Dakota power of attorney rules

Pick your county

South Dakota counties (66)