I'm also domiciled out of Florida; use American Home Base mailbox which give me an actual street address. I renewed my Tag in July by mail cost 78.00 for the year; also my new drivers license cost 48.00; which is now good until the year 2020. There is no state income tax and the sales tax is 7.5 & as of 2010; the last I was there. No vehicle inspection. My Motorhome insurance is reasonable as well as the tag fees; it cost me more when I first registered from another state, but I believe they go by weight instead of the year. Have the DMV mail you a handbook for more info on that. As we all no things can change in the blink of an eye. PIEERE
-- Edited by PIEERE on Thursday 13th of December 2012 06:22:20 PM
Lucky Mike said
07:30 PM Dec 13, 2012
NH is tough to claim Residency......I am based out of NH and you must prove physical Residence.... by way of property tax bill or Rental/ utility.......in NH all registrations are issued by the town office you Reside in... Registrations are only valid 1 yr......lic is valid up to 10 depending on residency
-- Edited by Lucky Mike on Thursday 13th of December 2012 07:32:51 PM
Hina said
10:30 PM Dec 13, 2012
I'm eager to leave California behind, and hit the road... don't get me wrong, California has a lot going for it, but I'm burnt on taxes, prices, restrictions and regulations.
I've heard South Dakota is a full time RV haven. Is anyone using S.D. mail services, have a S.D. driver's licence, spend time there? Please educate me on all things South Dakota!
Thanks,
Jane
Terry and Jo said
10:47 PM Dec 13, 2012
Hina,
Use the "Search" function in the blue bar above and type in "South Dakota." That will get you a lot of information about residency and mail services.
Terry
RVKevi said
01:16 AM Dec 14, 2012
We just got back from SD yesterday. Got our driver's licenses, registered our vehicles and registered to vote. There are a number of mail services there. We're using Your Best Address in Sioux Falls. But there are others, and you will want to find out which one is the best fit for you. Make sure you have all the right stuff for your license, although I would guess that California already has federally compliant licenses which would make it easier. We're from NC which doesn't yet, so we had to have a number of proofs of identity to get ours.
We know a couple of couples in the park where we are now who also domicile with SD and both like it. One uses the same mail service we do. One thing about SD is that they are set up for this. The workers, both in the driver's licensing office and where we registered our vehicles knew exactly what we were doing and were set up to handle it. Btw, according to Larry at our mail service, the end of the month is the busiest at the driver's licensing place, so if you go with SD, you might want to plan your trip there accordingly. We found the people in Sioux Falls to be friendly, courteous and helpful and enjoyed our time there.
Ckerr said
01:33 AM Dec 14, 2012
Be sure to check on health insurance rates and compare those as well. For those of us who still need to pay our own insurance that can make a huge difference. Be sure to check Florida as well. Depending on county health insurance can be a lot more affordable and it has many of the same benefits.
igotjam said
01:39 AM Dec 14, 2012
SD is a great place to spend time when its a bit warmer. Black Hills, MT Russmore, Crazy Horse, Deadwood etc....move east to see Wall Drugs in Wall, The Corn Palace in Mitchell etc etc. I wouldn't want to be there this time of year but summer is great.
Lucky Mike said
02:00 AM Dec 14, 2012
Things to keep in mind:
medical insurance auto & rv insurance Taxes..........investments , dividends........employment
Frequency of motor vehicle taxes.........license ,registration , saftey inspections
all these come into play quickly......like others have said check each and see whats good for you........read post from RV painter.....he went there and by the time he added it all up he saved major money by going to Fla.
Hina said
02:49 AM Dec 14, 2012
Thanks for all the answers. Kev and Vi, to do the residency, do you just need to open a mailbox, or actually go there? I'm sort of going short notice, but it occurred to me, if I could do residency Jan. 1, it would make next year's taxes easier, without California tracking me down and pro-rating. Going there in January, brrr! I'm a Cal/Az gal!
As far as Florida, I was doing mail forwarding from American Home Base last year, I guess I could do Florida, but which is easier? I may actually go to SD since it is in the West, probably never to FL, and I like the "concept" of SD better. If I'm going to be a "resident", it might feel more ethical to actually be there once in a while. Maybe Monday, I'll call American Home Base, though, to see about Florida.
Jane
RVKevi said
03:21 AM Dec 14, 2012
You can start the mail service at any time, but to establish residency so that California won't come after you may be tricky. I understand that Cal is one of the states that is more likely to come after you to claim that you are really still a Cal resident and simply trying to avoid paying taxes. I recently read somewhere that New Hampshire, Ohio and California are all like that, so that may affect your decisions. Maybe someone who has actually moved their residency from California will speak up.
It would certainly be important in the process to get your driver's license in SD, and you do have to go there to do that. In fact, you have to be able to prove you spent at least one night there. That means that you have to take a receipt from the hotel or campground showing their address, your name, and your mailing address for the night you stayed there. You have to have that when you go to get your driver's license. They will make a copy of it for their paperwork. You can't get your license the day you arrive, because you have to have that receipt.
I doubt that there is any state where you can get a driver's license without going there.
Technomadia said
04:10 AM Dec 14, 2012
We have been domiciled in SD since 2007 (through mydakotaaddress.com), and have encountered little difficulty. For instance, I just got my first jurors summons - in which they put you on call for an entire year, with duty to serve up to 3 times throughout the year. However, when I called and explained I'm a RVer, they immediately exempted me.
However, obtaining health insurance up there can be a bit of a challenge. There's something up there that encourages some of the insurers to only insure folks who actually live there at least 6 months out of the year. And many of the health networks offered at other insurers are not nationwide, leaving you 'out of network' as you travel. So definitely check into that if you need to obtain your own policy.
We have however started the process of moving to Florida legally (using St. Brendan's Isle) - as we have family and business ties there. We already spend several months a year in Florida (and have only spent a week in SD in the past 5 years), so it's a lot easier for us to solidly prove Florida as a home base. We got a quote of our auto/RV insurance going up a bit (our agent is looking into other options) and our health insurance going down. Our annual tags should be cheaper, especially since SD charges by the weight. And, the driver's licenses can be renewed remotely - which, as our SD ones are due this year, is a big plus.
- Cherie
Neil and Connie said
04:28 AM Dec 14, 2012
America's Mailbox in Box Elder is who we use. As others have said; the only thing you need to actually be there for is drivers license and you have to spend one night in the county to do that. Then you're good for 5 years and they will renew your license (I've been told) 6 months early or late to handle not being there. Everything else you can be done remotely; usually the mailing service will handle it for you as it's easier to walk up and register the car than do all by mail. Obviously insurance, taxes and all other stuff needs to be taken into account but since you're coming from CA I'm guessing you'll save money.
Hina said
04:40 AM Dec 14, 2012
All good information. I think the tricky part will be escaping the tax clutches of the Golden State. I even stopped selling on eBay, due to the insane tax stuff.
Terry and Jo said
05:04 AM Dec 14, 2012
One other general question to throw in here that may be related to one's decision to domicile in another state. In some states, vehicles that are registered from out of state are also subject to being charged an "excise tax" for that state, even if the vehicle was purchased in another state. That may also apply to RV's as well as tow vehicles and toads.
When we purchased our Mobile Suites, the excise tax here in Oklahoma was around $3000. When we finally get to travel and need to domicile elsewhere, I certainly hope to not be double-taxed.
Terry
RVKevi said
05:16 AM Dec 14, 2012
In SD, if you have paid a 3% or higher sales tax, by whatever name it is called, in another state, you don't have to pay again to them. However, if you haven't, or if it is a new/new to you vehicle, you will have to pay 3%.
bigboomer said
06:06 AM Dec 14, 2012
Hina,
We are now proud SD residents. We did a lot of research and found that SD was the best fit for us as they along with Texas are one of the last two states that do not require you to own, rent or lease real property to establish residency (a lot has to do with the Patriot and REAL ID Act). We used Alternative Resources in Sioux Falls to pretty much do all the upfront work. Once we sold our home, we first started by starting the mail forwarding and registering and insuring our vehicles about one week before we made our trip to SD to finish the process. This meant that we got our SD drivers licenses, registered to vote and opened up a bank account in Sioux Falls. The process was seamless and Alternative Resources http://www.alternativeresources.net/ was great thru the whole process!
Once back on the east coast (we are fixed based for a bit while I continue to work FT) we systematically closed all other bank accounts, etc. that were located in NJ, completely severing ties with anything that could be construed as a connection to the state. Our accountants recommended this as this will show that you have no intention of returning and have established a "domicile" else where. All of our banking is done online along with any other former paper type accounts.
Every state is unique and we have heard and seen horror stories of folks be accused by the state tax man that they are still residents and owe back taxes. The key to to demonstrate that you have no "personal ties" to your former state. If you continue to own property, etc. in your former state there is always the possibility that they may try and come after you and then you have a big bill to defend your decisions and lifestyle.
Also to answer Jims question, SD does not require you to have a Class A non-CDL for your RV.
Hope this helps ya'll!
Les
-- Edited by bigboomer on Friday 14th of December 2012 06:07:30 AM
Alie and Jims Carrilite said
06:18 AM Dec 14, 2012
Does South Dakota require Class A non-cdl for RV'ers? My truck and 5'er will have a combined GVWR of over 26001. Truck is 9200, new camper is 17500. I currently have a class A non CDL for North Carolina, but its more for work than personal.
Hina said
05:37 PM Dec 14, 2012
Well, if I could afford to own or rent property in Cal, maybe I wouldn't be so motivated to leave; a dumpy studio in the Tenderloin of SF is going for at least $1,000 a month, and here is Santa Rosa, very nice, it's still $800-$1,000 for a decent studio. Severing ties will be easy, as, after almost 20 years here, I have barely established any, since all I've done is work non-stop to keep a roof, food and wheels. I've already paid close to 10% tax on the trailer and truck. The bank thing, I have Wells Fargo, I guess I could transfer the accounts to a SD branch?
Great info, guys, giving me something to go on in the next couple of months. Crossing my fingers, and holding my breath! Take the jump! Weeee!
Jane
bjoyce said
06:15 PM Dec 14, 2012
Hina: You could pop over to Lake County (Lakeport, Clear Lake) and get something cheaper since my sister-in-law lives there and they have been buying houses cheap and renting them out. But I don't think you have any good reasons to stay in California.
Hina said
02:54 AM Dec 17, 2012
Can't rent a house, I live full time in my trailer. Home sweet home!
phyllen said
04:43 PM Dec 17, 2012
One word of caution - if you have a CDL you can not use your mail forwarding address. In our case, when we first became SD residents almost three years ago, hubby had the Ramada Inn as his address. Motor vehicle people knew this but had no other suggestions. This year while visiting there we went back to Motor Vehicle office and asked if things had changed. They directed us back to our mail forwarding service telling us there was a Bed and Breakfast across from them that a lot of people used as a physical address. We went to our mail forwarding service that had the forms to complete. The rent is $50. a year but it satisfies as a physical address for CDL's. In the Motor Vehicle records he has both a Physcial Address ( the B&B) and a mailing address (the Mail forwarding service).
Hina said
12:15 AM Dec 18, 2012
Thanks so much for all the info, so much to consider!
Hina said
02:00 AM Dec 18, 2012
My, my, since I moved to California from Arizona 20 years ago, and since 9/11, getting a driver's license is more tricky.... I'm looking at this, and looks like I need a "non-hospital" birth certificate? And proofs of name change? Umm, not sure I have that. I may have to send to Arizona for papers proving my name change. Back in the early 80's when I got married briefly, then divorced, didn't think much of saving anything, like marriage certificates that didn't apply anymore.
Neil and Connie said
03:50 AM Dec 18, 2012
Jims carrilite wrote:
Does South Dakota require Class A non-cdl for RV'ers? My truck and 5'er will have a combined GVWR of over 26001. Truck is 9200, new camper is 17500. I currently have a class A non CDL for North Carolina, but its more for work than personal.
Nope.
bigboomer said
01:45 PM Dec 18, 2012
Hina,
When we went to get our SD DL, the only things we needed were our old DL from the state we were moving from, our passport and proof that we stayed at the RV campground or a hotel for at least one night to which we also signed an affidavit stating that we are full time RV'ers and we will be returning to SD in the future. If you do not have a passport then you will need an original birth certificate, etc. to prove who you are.
The whole process took about an hour because of the line but otherwise pretty smooth.
After getting our DL we went downstairs and registered to vote.
Les
Loretta said
05:36 PM Dec 18, 2012
Yesterday while at Quartzsite looking for a campground for January we inquired about getting our mail delivered there and the woman told us America's mailbox just had an office open. We went over and were delighted to meet the owner Dan and his wife Barb. I had no idea who I was talking to then he introduced himself and I responded #4408. They were happy to answer questions for me as we have not registered my vehicles there yet or been there to get our drivers license. They do all the work for you as far as the vehicles you just need to be there for your license. He said that you could call anytime and the people there would be happy to answer any and all questions you might have. So, while in Q we found that we will be able to get our mail delivered, plus we made new friends.
Hina said
06:23 PM Dec 18, 2012
Sadly, I have no passport, never could afford international travel, and my birth certificate has a different name than my California driver's license, due to that brief marriage, which I don't have proof of. I may have to swing through Phoenix on my way to South Dakota, and try and get some paperwork. Wouldn't that be a nightmare? To be stuck for the rest of my life, with California residency?
nightsky said
06:46 PM Dec 18, 2012
I can definitely empathize with your situtation. I started going by the name Caryn when I was 14. My parents' attorney assured me I didn't have to change it legally, just make sure I used it on everything and don't switch back and forth. It was never a problem for almost 40 years. (Of course this was pre- 9-11 and identity theft etc) Everything has always said Caryn: my driver's licenses in several states, marraige license, divorce papers, social security card, deeds and titles, everything. However, when I went to get a passport several years ago I needed a certified copy of my birth certificate from the state of MN, (I was a MN resident at the time) and they wouldn't give me one! Said my DL didn't match the name on the BC. So basically, since you need a certified copy of the BC to get a driver's license in every state that I know of in order to change residency, the state of MN was holding me hostage! I finally went to court this past March and legally changed my name to Caryn and had the birth record ammended so my birth certificate now says Caryn as well.
My attorney joked with me that I hadn't really existed for those 40 years.... The person on the birth certificate disappeared without a trace in 1974, and there was no record of Caryn having been born!
I'm happily a SD resident again (I grew up there and still have family there so it made the most sense for me) and used Alternative Resources for the mail forwarding and they were great to walk me through the steps for all the paperwork etc.
Hina said
06:49 PM Dec 18, 2012
That's an idea; legally change my name back to what's on the birth certificate. Maybe I should call my Prepaid Legal attorney.
nightsky said
06:58 PM Dec 18, 2012
It might be easier than trying to round up everything you would need to document the name changes and dealing with several states' bureaucracy to do that.
When I got my SD DL I just had the new birth cert and my current MN DL, didn't show any of the name changes (marraige/divorce) at all since the name was the same on both.
Hina said
09:31 PM Dec 18, 2012
Already called Arizona, and they will be sending me a certified copy from the name change from 30 years ago. It's a good thing to have, in this day and age.
P.S. Cool caboose! Lotta work, hope you have time and money! An old timey 1890's interior would be cool!
bigboomer said
05:28 AM Dec 28, 2012
NWescapee,
Although we have not gone through the loan process yet, our mail forwarding service, Alternative Resources http://www.alternativeresources.net/ in Sioux Falls has noted that the local bank, Liberty National Bank https://www.libertynationalonline.com/index.htm is RV/ Fulltimer friendly and knows and understands the SD residency process and you might say is more in tune with our needs. We plan on visiting them in the spring to open an account, etc. so that we are also customers when it comes time for a new RV loan.
Hope this helps. Keep us informed as to how you make out.
Les
-- Edited by bigboomer on Friday 28th of December 2012 05:30:23 AM
NWescapee said
05:30 AM Dec 28, 2012
Has anyone had an issue with obtaining a loan as a full time RV'er with a SD address? We have our SD address but still have our licenses from the state where we have been living and will shortly be listing our house for sale. Our plan was to go to SD in the spring or summer, not the winter. We're searching for the full time rig now and think we are close to a decision. We were pre-approved for a loan that we would need just until the house sells but the lender is saying we can't title the rig in SD without SD driver's licenses, despite the fact that the state allows it, the lender will not allow it. For us, it's a big financial difference, 9.8% sales tax vs. 3% excise tax.
Would love to hear if anyone has encountered this recently and if you found a way to solve it, we are exploring an option with another lender but have to join their Credit Union first and are waiting for that application to be approved.
Clay L said
07:00 PM Dec 29, 2012
Regarding Alternative Resources in Sioux Falls SD - we have used them for seven years with no problems. Even if you decide to use to use someone else you should take a look at their web site. They have a lot of info about SD and how to become a resident.
NWescapee said
06:32 AM Dec 30, 2012
Update: I've contacted 3 different lenders, same issue with all of them. Evidently some of the new banking reform laws that were passed over the last couple of years have made it a requirement that your legal address match the state driver's license if you are obtaining a loan or even opening an account at a credit union or bank before applying for the loan. So, despite the fact that the state of SD will allow you to license an RV with your mailbox location, if you are just now applying for a loan, the lenders will not allow the RV to be titled in SD if you do not also have a Driver's license in SD, even if you are in the process of setting up the new domicile.
wildbill2673 said
04:23 AM Dec 31, 2012
Most banking reform with regard to opening accounts and addresses happened after and because of 9-11. I was told this when I opened an account long before the mortgage mess. Many things have changed because of the actions a few knot heads.
Lucky Mike said
06:27 AM Dec 31, 2012
I had the same problem When I went to move my finances to NH..............never mind just trying to get just a post office box!!!
GlendaLaine said
06:20 PM Dec 31, 2012
We became SD residents this year. First got a mail forwarding (permanent) address with Your Best Address by mail. Great folks, very helpful & accommodating. Also got full-timers vehicle/trailer insurance from Allied thru Dougherty Ins (an independent agency) by phone/mail. So during a 'warm' spell back in February, we zipped into Sioux Falls to officially 'divorce' Missouri. Got vehicle/trailer tags (annual is all that's available, but not inspections), but tags renew according to the month corresponding with the first letter of your last name so tags only went thru (pro-rated) until May. Both registered to vote, & Jeff got his DL. I was missing a 30-yo marriage license (only had divorce decree without maiden name listed), so couldn't prove name changes. Oh well, got everything else done.
Then we got legally married in March but had to wait until Aug to return to Sioux Falls to get my DL (with my certified missing marriage license). I could still use our campground receipt from Feb as proof of the one-night stay in the state as it's good for a year. We also traded vehicles in Missouri in April (paying SD's 3% sales tax only) & Your Best Address folks handled not only registering the new pickup but obtaining a full-year's tag for it. We also requested by mail absentee ballots (with copy of voter ID cards) & received/returned ballots by mail. SD doesn't have state income taxes or inheritance taxes. We bank with USAA & they had no problems with our 'residency' as they're geared to frequently-moving military people.
Overall, it couldn't have been much simpler. The ONLY issue I've heard of is being required to renew DL in person. We're more than happy to return to SD every 5 years tho. Oh, & if 'Barney Fife' ever stops you while traveling & asks about you being 'from SD', simply say you have a 'small place' there & move on. Full timing really confuses lots of non-RVing folks! LOL
Hina said
07:05 PM Dec 31, 2012
Glenda, I'm dealing with the same name change thing; waiting on AZ to send me 30 year old name change papers. Maybe we should put out the word, post 9/11, gals, don't change your name when you get married!
Lucky Mike said
07:47 PM Dec 31, 2012
Most Post 9/11 gals dont get married.....
Clay L said
08:20 PM Dec 31, 2012
Paul at Alternative Resources in Sioux Falls sends out a newsletter. In the last (or maybe the one before) he listed a Sioux Falls bank that is happy to loan to full timers.
bigboomer said
09:23 PM Dec 31, 2012
Clay is correct. Paul at AR noted Liberty National in Sioux Falls as RV friendly. The Patriot Act and Real ID act have made it a nightmare with banking. Example is even though we opened up an account with Wells Fargo in Sioux Falls, even with a great credit rating it took about 3 months to finally get credit card thru them because I did not have a "physical" address. The code in the Patriot Act notes that it is up to bank to identify an individuals address and how they do this is subjective. It is all part of the governments ability to have an address to track you down if necessary, whatever that means.
Some people use a relatives address, etc. Every bank has it's own rules.
sdman said
12:11 AM Jan 1, 2013
We made our resideance in SD back in June of this year, 2012. We use Americas Mailbox in Box Elder which is very close to Rapid City. The main reason for us to use Box Eleder was the fact that Pennington county where Box Elder is doesn't have any extra wheel tax when registering our vehicles. As for banks, we have not had any problems. However, we have not tried to get any loans either. Our existing credit cards with Bank of America, Chase, CityBank, AMX, and Capital One were fine with us just chaging our adress to the Box Elder Address.
Hina said
05:38 AM Jan 1, 2013
Touche' Mike.
WestWardHo said
02:43 AM Jan 14, 2013
Loretta, As current AZ residents planning to go full time and planning on SD residency, we've been following this thread fairly closely. We live in a different county but I would warn you about AZ tag and insurance costs. They are quite high in AZ. Higher than OH & Mass for comparisons. Not sure about income taxes here either. Think they tax SS and military retirement income. For what it's worth. Please check yourself.
Sherry
Loretta said
08:11 PM Jan 14, 2013
WestWardHo wrote:
Loretta, As current AZ residents planning to go full time and planning on SD residency, we've been following this thread fairly closely. We live in a different county but I would warn you about AZ tag and insurance costs. They are quite high in AZ. Higher than OH & Mass for comparisons. Not sure about income taxes here either. Think they tax SS and military retirement income. For what it's worth. Please check yourself.
Sherry
Our vehichles are currently registered in NJ. That is where we bought the RV and where I lived prior to becoming full time. We hope to make it to SD by spring to do all the updating.
nessa9566 said
05:05 AM Apr 3, 2013
This is a somewhat late post but it can be very difficult to get a SD drivers license. You need lots of documentation, especially if you are a married woman. I can't remember all the documents needed. I know you need Birth Certificate, SS Card, Marriage license and divorce decrees if your divorced. Plus at least 2 forms of mail with address on it. Once you have these though you never have to show them again. They put a little star on your license. Have lived in South Dakota since 1992 so when we start to full time in 2017 I'm all set and don't have to change my state residency. Good luck to you. And just to warn you, it gets REALLY REALLY cold here!
rclvnv said
05:35 AM Apr 3, 2013
A lot of people overlook Nevada as a compatible place to domicile. Outside of Washoe (Reno) & Clark Counties (Las Vegas) there is no vehicle smog requirement,no income tax,health insurance is cheaparesidency can be established via a set up like a UPS store. Might be a lot easier for yoy to go to Nevada from CA, woth most of the same benefits as SD. Key is to go to a rural county like Nye, which can be accessed 55 mi from Vegas (pahrump). Worth considering for CA folks. Richard
Ken and Marianne said
12:16 PM Apr 3, 2013
Loretta wrote:
Our vehichles are currently registered in NJ. That is where we bought the RV and where I lived prior to becoming full time. We hope to make it to SD by spring to do all the updating.
Good to hear a fellow Jerseyan using SD as a domicile. Makes us even more confident our choice of SD is the best for us once we become full-timers.
Loretta said
05:32 PM Apr 3, 2013
Thanks Ken. We are in the process now so when it is all done I will let you know how we make out. I need to get the car done first before we get there because the registration is due the end of this month. The office is very helpful with all the paperwork. I did find it odd though that you do not need proof of insurance to get your vehicles registered nor a SD drivers license. We do have insurance and the DL we'll get in a month or so when we finally get there.
I'm also domiciled out of Florida; use American Home Base mailbox which give me an actual street address. I renewed my Tag in July by mail cost 78.00 for the year; also my new drivers license cost 48.00; which is now good until the year 2020. There is no state income tax and the sales tax is 7.5 & as of 2010; the last I was there. No vehicle inspection. My Motorhome insurance is reasonable as well as the tag fees; it cost me more when I first registered from another state, but I believe they go by weight instead of the year. Have the DMV mail you a handbook for more info on that. As we all no things can change in the blink of an eye. PIEERE
-- Edited by PIEERE on Thursday 13th of December 2012 06:22:20 PM
NH is tough to claim Residency......I am based out of NH and you must prove physical Residence.... by way of property tax bill or Rental/ utility.......in NH all registrations are issued by the town office you Reside in... Registrations are only valid 1 yr......lic is valid up to 10 depending on residency
-- Edited by Lucky Mike on Thursday 13th of December 2012 07:32:51 PM
I'm eager to leave California behind, and hit the road... don't get me wrong, California has a lot going for it, but I'm burnt on taxes, prices, restrictions and regulations.
I've heard South Dakota is a full time RV haven. Is anyone using S.D. mail services, have a S.D. driver's licence, spend time there? Please educate me on all things South Dakota!
Thanks,
Jane
Hina,
Use the "Search" function in the blue bar above and type in "South Dakota." That will get you a lot of information about residency and mail services.
Terry
We know a couple of couples in the park where we are now who also domicile with SD and both like it. One uses the same mail service we do. One thing about SD is that they are set up for this. The workers, both in the driver's licensing office and where we registered our vehicles knew exactly what we were doing and were set up to handle it. Btw, according to Larry at our mail service, the end of the month is the busiest at the driver's licensing place, so if you go with SD, you might want to plan your trip there accordingly. We found the people in Sioux Falls to be friendly, courteous and helpful and enjoyed our time there.
medical insurance
auto & rv insurance
Taxes..........investments , dividends........employment
Frequency of motor vehicle taxes.........license ,registration , saftey inspections
all these come into play quickly......like others have said check each and see whats good for you........read post from RV painter.....he went there and by the time he added it all up he saved major money by going to Fla.
Thanks for all the answers. Kev and Vi, to do the residency, do you just need to open a mailbox, or actually go there? I'm sort of going short notice, but it occurred to me, if I could do residency Jan. 1, it would make next year's taxes easier, without California tracking me down and pro-rating. Going there in January, brrr! I'm a Cal/Az gal!
As far as Florida, I was doing mail forwarding from American Home Base last year, I guess I could do Florida, but which is easier? I may actually go to SD since it is in the West, probably never to FL, and I like the "concept" of SD better. If I'm going to be a "resident", it might feel more ethical to actually be there once in a while. Maybe Monday, I'll call American Home Base, though, to see about Florida.
Jane
It would certainly be important in the process to get your driver's license in SD, and you do have to go there to do that. In fact, you have to be able to prove you spent at least one night there. That means that you have to take a receipt from the hotel or campground showing their address, your name, and your mailing address for the night you stayed there. You have to have that when you go to get your driver's license. They will make a copy of it for their paperwork. You can't get your license the day you arrive, because you have to have that receipt.
I doubt that there is any state where you can get a driver's license without going there.
However, obtaining health insurance up there can be a bit of a challenge. There's something up there that encourages some of the insurers to only insure folks who actually live there at least 6 months out of the year. And many of the health networks offered at other insurers are not nationwide, leaving you 'out of network' as you travel. So definitely check into that if you need to obtain your own policy.
We have however started the process of moving to Florida legally (using St. Brendan's Isle) - as we have family and business ties there. We already spend several months a year in Florida (and have only spent a week in SD in the past 5 years), so it's a lot easier for us to solidly prove Florida as a home base. We got a quote of our auto/RV insurance going up a bit (our agent is looking into other options) and our health insurance going down. Our annual tags should be cheaper, especially since SD charges by the weight. And, the driver's licenses can be renewed remotely - which, as our SD ones are due this year, is a big plus.
- Cherie
America's Mailbox in Box Elder is who we use. As others have said; the only thing you need to actually be there for is drivers license and you have to spend one night in the county to do that. Then you're good for 5 years and they will renew your license (I've been told) 6 months early or late to handle not being there. Everything else you can be done remotely; usually the mailing service will handle it for you as it's easier to walk up and register the car than do all by mail. Obviously insurance, taxes and all other stuff needs to be taken into account but since you're coming from CA I'm guessing you'll save money.
One other general question to throw in here that may be related to one's decision to domicile in another state. In some states, vehicles that are registered from out of state are also subject to being charged an "excise tax" for that state, even if the vehicle was purchased in another state. That may also apply to RV's as well as tow vehicles and toads.
When we purchased our Mobile Suites, the excise tax here in Oklahoma was around $3000. When we finally get to travel and need to domicile elsewhere, I certainly hope to not be double-taxed.
Terry
Hina,
We are now proud SD residents. We did a lot of research and found that SD was the best fit for us as they along with Texas are one of the last two states that do not require you to own, rent or lease real property to establish residency (a lot has to do with the Patriot and REAL ID Act). We used Alternative Resources in Sioux Falls to pretty much do all the upfront work. Once we sold our home, we first started by starting the mail forwarding and registering and insuring our vehicles about one week before we made our trip to SD to finish the process. This meant that we got our SD drivers licenses, registered to vote and opened up a bank account in Sioux Falls. The process was seamless and Alternative Resources http://www.alternativeresources.net/ was great thru the whole process!
Once back on the east coast (we are fixed based for a bit while I continue to work FT) we systematically closed all other bank accounts, etc. that were located in NJ, completely severing ties with anything that could be construed as a connection to the state. Our accountants recommended this as this will show that you have no intention of returning and have established a "domicile" else where. All of our banking is done online along with any other former paper type accounts.
Every state is unique and we have heard and seen horror stories of folks be accused by the state tax man that they are still residents and owe back taxes. The key to to demonstrate that you have no "personal ties" to your former state. If you continue to own property, etc. in your former state there is always the possibility that they may try and come after you and then you have a big bill to defend your decisions and lifestyle.
Also to answer Jims question, SD does not require you to have a Class A non-CDL for your RV.
Hope this helps ya'll!
Les
-- Edited by bigboomer on Friday 14th of December 2012 06:07:30 AM
My truck and 5'er will have a combined GVWR of over 26001. Truck is 9200, new camper is 17500.
I currently have a class A non CDL for North Carolina, but its more for work than personal.
Great info, guys, giving me something to go on in the next couple of months. Crossing my fingers, and holding my breath! Take the jump! Weeee!
Jane
Nope.
Hina,
When we went to get our SD DL, the only things we needed were our old DL from the state we were moving from, our passport and proof that we stayed at the RV campground or a hotel for at least one night to which we also signed an affidavit stating that we are full time RV'ers and we will be returning to SD in the future. If you do not have a passport then you will need an original birth certificate, etc. to prove who you are.
The whole process took about an hour because of the line but otherwise pretty smooth.
After getting our DL we went downstairs and registered to vote.
Les
Yesterday while at Quartzsite looking for a campground for January we inquired about getting our mail delivered there and the woman told us America's mailbox just had an office open. We went over and were delighted to meet the owner Dan and his wife Barb. I had no idea who I was talking to then he introduced himself and I responded #4408. They were happy to answer questions for me as we have not registered my vehicles there yet or been there to get our drivers license. They do all the work for you as far as the vehicles you just need to be there for your license. He said that you could call anytime and the people there would be happy to answer any and all questions you might have. So, while in Q we found that we will be able to get our mail delivered, plus we made new friends.
Sadly, I have no passport, never could afford international travel, and my birth certificate has a different name than my California driver's license, due to that brief marriage, which I don't have proof of.
I may have to swing through Phoenix on my way to South Dakota, and try and get some paperwork. Wouldn't that be a nightmare? To be stuck for the rest of my life, with California residency? 
I can definitely empathize with your situtation. I started going by the name Caryn when I was 14. My parents' attorney assured me I didn't have to change it legally, just make sure I used it on everything and don't switch back and forth. It was never a problem for almost 40 years. (Of course this was pre- 9-11 and identity theft etc) Everything has always said Caryn: my driver's licenses in several states, marraige license, divorce papers, social security card, deeds and titles, everything. However, when I went to get a passport several years ago I needed a certified copy of my birth certificate from the state of MN, (I was a MN resident at the time) and they wouldn't give me one! Said my DL didn't match the name on the BC. So basically, since you need a certified copy of the BC to get a driver's license in every state that I know of in order to change residency, the state of MN was holding me hostage! I finally went to court this past March and legally changed my name to Caryn and had the birth record ammended so my birth certificate now says Caryn as well.
My attorney joked with me that I hadn't really existed for those 40 years.... The person on the birth certificate disappeared without a trace in 1974, and there was no record of Caryn having been born!
I'm happily a SD resident again (I grew up there and still have family there so it made the most sense for me) and used Alternative Resources for the mail forwarding and they were great to walk me through the steps for all the paperwork etc.
It might be easier than trying to round up everything you would need to document the name changes and dealing with several states' bureaucracy to do that.
When I got my SD DL I just had the new birth cert and my current MN DL, didn't show any of the name changes (marraige/divorce) at all since the name was the same on both.
Already called Arizona, and they will be sending me a certified copy from the name change from 30 years ago. It's a good thing to have, in this day and age.
An old timey 1890's interior would be cool!
P.S. Cool caboose! Lotta work, hope you have time and money!
NWescapee,
Although we have not gone through the loan process yet, our mail forwarding service, Alternative Resources http://www.alternativeresources.net/ in Sioux Falls has noted that the local bank, Liberty National Bank https://www.libertynationalonline.com/index.htm is RV/ Fulltimer friendly and knows and understands the SD residency process and you might say is more in tune with our needs. We plan on visiting them in the spring to open an account, etc. so that we are also customers when it comes time for a new RV loan.
Hope this helps. Keep us informed as to how you make out.
Les
-- Edited by bigboomer on Friday 28th of December 2012 05:30:23 AM
Would love to hear if anyone has encountered this recently and if you found a way to solve it, we are exploring an option with another lender but have to join their Credit Union first and are waiting for that application to be approved.
Most banking reform with regard to opening accounts and addresses happened after and because of 9-11. I was told this when I opened an account long before the mortgage mess. Many things have changed because of the actions a few knot heads.
Then we got legally married in March but had to wait until Aug to return to Sioux Falls to get my DL (with my certified missing marriage license). I could still use our campground receipt from Feb as proof of the one-night stay in the state as it's good for a year. We also traded vehicles in Missouri in April (paying SD's 3% sales tax only) & Your Best Address folks handled not only registering the new pickup but obtaining a full-year's tag for it. We also requested by mail absentee ballots (with copy of voter ID cards) & received/returned ballots by mail. SD doesn't have state income taxes or inheritance taxes. We bank with USAA & they had no problems with our 'residency' as they're geared to frequently-moving military people.
Overall, it couldn't have been much simpler. The ONLY issue I've heard of is being required to renew DL in person. We're more than happy to return to SD every 5 years tho. Oh, & if 'Barney Fife' ever stops you while traveling & asks about you being 'from SD', simply say you have a 'small place' there & move on. Full timing really confuses lots of non-RVing folks! LOL
Glenda, I'm dealing with the same name change thing; waiting on AZ to send me 30 year old name change papers. Maybe we should put out the word, post 9/11, gals, don't change your name when you get married!
We made our resideance in SD back in June of this year, 2012. We use Americas Mailbox in Box Elder which is very close to Rapid City. The main reason for us to use Box Eleder was the fact that Pennington county where Box Elder is doesn't have any extra wheel tax when registering our vehicles. As for banks, we have not had any problems. However, we have not tried to get any loans either. Our existing credit cards with Bank of America, Chase, CityBank, AMX, and Capital One were fine with us just chaging our adress to the Box Elder Address.
Touche' Mike.
As current AZ residents planning to go full time and planning on SD residency, we've been following this thread fairly closely. We live in a different county but I would warn you about AZ tag and insurance costs. They are quite high in AZ. Higher than OH & Mass for comparisons. Not sure about income taxes here either. Think they tax SS and military retirement income.
For what it's worth. Please check yourself.
Sherry
Our vehichles are currently registered in NJ. That is where we bought the RV and where I lived prior to becoming full time. We hope to make it to SD by spring to do all the updating.
Good to hear a fellow Jerseyan using SD as a domicile. Makes us even more confident our choice of SD is the best for us once we become full-timers.
Thanks Ken. We are in the process now so when it is all done I will let you know how we make out. I need to get the car done first before we get there because the registration is due the end of this month. The office is very helpful with all the paperwork. I did find it odd though that you do not need proof of insurance to get your vehicles registered nor a SD drivers license. We do have insurance and the DL we'll get in a month or so when we finally get there.