Politics & Government
South Dakota earns 84/100 in financial transparency, ranking 11 among 50 states
New report from Truth in Accounting reveals South Dakota's strengths and weaknesses in fiscal reporting
South Dakota earned a total score of 84 out of 100 in Truth in Accounting’s Financial Transparency Score 2025 report, ranking 11 out of 50 states. This year’s analysis highlights both improvements and concerns in how state governments disclose their true financial condition.
The score reflects an evaluation of South Dakota’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), a key document that should offer a clear picture of a government’s finances. South Dakota received a clean audit opinion, which contributed 50 points to its total. Other factors included timeliness of reporting, presence of deferred items that distort financial clarity, and how pension liabilities are disclosed.
Accurate and timely financial reporting has a direct impact on taxpayers, citizens, journalists, and even state lawmakers.
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“Without accurate and timely financial information, it’s nearly impossible for citizens to hold their governments accountable,” said Sheila Weinberg, founder and CEO of Truth in Accounting.
Truth in Accounting’s report provides a roadmap for states to improve fiscal transparency, empowering citizens with the information needed to understand how public money is managed. You can explore the full report and see how South Dakota compares to others at truthinaccounting.org.