Compliance
Do You Need a License to Run a Non-Medical Home Care Agency?
In most states, yes. How the license depends on the services you offer, what six states actually require, what applications ask for, and how to check your state.
Do you need a license to run a home care agency in South Dakota?
Last verified October 17, 2026 · All South Dakota resources
No. South Dakota does not require a state license for non-medical home care agencies. South Dakota does not license non-medical home care agencies. A 2026 bill (HB 1138) to require Department of Health licensing was vetoed on 2026-03-25, and the House failed to override on 2026-03-30. Services paid by Medicaid carry separate provider requirements.
What are the key facts?
| License required | No |
|---|
What should you confirm with the state?
South Dakota has no license for non-medical home care, and lawmakers said they may revisit licensing in 2027. If you plan to serve Medicaid or state-funded clients, confirm provider, training, and background check requirements with the DHS Division of Long Term Services and Supports.
What should you budget for?
The license fee is a small part of startup cost. Insurance, payroll for your first caregivers before clients pay, and office staff usually cost far more. Use the bill rate calculator to check your pricing covers it, and the intake form and care plan templates for the paperwork inspectors ask to see.
More for South Dakota
Agency licensing by state: other states
Related guides
General
How to Start a Non-Medical Home Care Agency: Step by Step
Ten steps to open a non-medical home care agency, from services and state licensing to insurance, hiring, payers, systems and first clients, with real fees.
Compliance
How Long Does It Take to Get a Home Care License?
Plan on 2 to 6 months in most licensing states. Statutory review clocks are 60 to 90 days, but they start only when your application is complete.
General
Home Care Agency Startup Costs: A Line-by-Line Budget
What it costs to open a non-medical home care agency: real state license fees, insurance minimums, office, hiring, software and the working capital most owners underestimate.
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