Your guide to WIC: how to apply, find an office, & shop

What is WIC?

WIC helps with your family’s health and nutrition needs during pregnancy and early childhood. The program recognizes these years as critical for growth and development, setting both parents and children up for a healthy future.

Decades of research show that WIC participation helps families improve their health and save money. The program lowers the chance of premature delivery, low birth weight, and hospital intensive care for newborns. WIC also helps kids see doctors and dentists regularly, get vaccinated on time, eat healthier foods, and do better in school.

When you join WIC, you can get:

• Monthly food benefits, potentially worth hundreds of dollars
• One-on-one nutrition advice & breastfeeding support tailored to your needs, including breast pumps
• Health screenings for parents and children & connections to services like Medicaid, SNAP, and Head Start

WIC is available in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Indian Tribal Organizations, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. Each US state or territory has its own federally funded program. States use their funds to staff WIC clinics, which are local health organizations that provide health services and nutrition education to participants.

Who can get WIC?

Whether you’re married, single, working, or not working, WIC supports all kinds of families. Low-income pregnant, postpartum, and nursing individuals—as well as caretakers for children up to age 5—can apply for WIC.

To qualify, your income must meet the guidelines and a healthcare professional needs to check your or your child’s nutritional needs. Most low-income applicants qualify because it’s hard to afford enough healthy food on a tight budget.

The income limits for WIC are higher than you might expect. A family of four can qualify with income up to $57,720 per year. If you get Medicaid, food stamps (SNAP), or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), you automatically meet WIC’s income requirements. Even if you think you earn too much to qualify, it’s worth checking—especially if you’re pregnant.

While many WIC recipients are mothers, the program supports all kinds of caregivers, including:

• Pregnant people
• New parents (up to 6 months after giving birth)
• Breastfeeding parents (up to your baby's first birthday)
• Partners caring for kids under 5
• Grandparents raising young children
• Foster parents
• Other guardians of children under 5

WIC helps almost half of all US newborns, but only 50 percent of eligible families participate. Around 6 million people who qualify each month don’t use the program.

If you're in the early stages of pregnancy, don't wait to apply—you can start getting WIC benefits as soon as you know you're pregnant.

WIC income guidelines

If you don’t receive SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid, your total household income before taxes must be at or below 185 percent of the federal poverty level to qualify for WIC benefits. On your WIC application, include income from jobs, self-employment, and other benefits like social security, disability, child support, worker’s compensation, unemployment, and pension income.

If someone in your household is pregnant, include the number of expected children in your household size.

WIC income eligibility guidelines from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025:

How long can you get WIC?

WIC is meant to be a short-term program that helps you support your family’s and your child’s development when it matters most. The right foods during pregnancy and early childhood build your family’s health for years to come.

You can get WIC benefits for six months after childbirth. If you’re breastfeeding beyond six months, you can get WIC for up to a year after birth. Children are eligible for WIC for one year at a time, and their benefits need to be renewed annually.

How to apply for WIC

Getting started with WIC is easier than you might think. Many families are referred to WIC when applying for Medicaid, SNAP, or other community services.

If you’re applying to WIC for the first time, contact your local WIC office (WIC clinic) to schedule an appointment. Some WIC clinics have walk-in hours and flexible scheduling. If you qualify, you can get benefits on the same day you apply at many of these WIC clinics.

Some states offer virtual appointments, while others require you to go in person. Don't worry about immigration status—WIC keeps your information confidential and will not ask about citizenship. Just bring:

Identification (ID)

You’ll need to bring identity documents for every member of your household who will be on the WIC program. Check with your state’s WIC agency for ID requirements.

Proof of address

To prove your address, you can bring a utility bill, a postmarked piece of mail addressed to you, a lease or rent receipt from your landlord, or a driver’s license or other identification card.

Proof of income

A recent pay stub, letter from an employer, or an eligibility letter for one of the other benefit programs all work to prove your income.

During your visit or remote appointment, you'll meet with a health professional for a simple nutrition screening. This helps them understand your family's specific needs and create a food package that works for you. The doctor, nurse, or registered dietitian will take note of your height and weight. If you go in-person, they may also test blood to check for anemia (low amounts of red blood cells).

If you’re qualified for WIC, you’ll receive an eWIC card in the office or in the mail—sometimes the same day you apply.

Find WIC offices near you

There are around 10,000 local WIC clinics nationwide. WIC services are often located in community health centers, hospitals, and local health departments. Keep in mind that each clinic has its own application and appointment process.

Sometimes, WIC clinics can’t serve everyone who applies immediately. If this happens, you’ll go on a waiting list. These offices will use a priority system to help people with the most urgent health needs first, like those who are underweight or have had difficult pregnancies in the past.

Start by contacting a few of your local clinics. You can find out which clinics allow you to apply online or on the phone. Some clinics require you to go in person. If the WIC office in your area doesn’t offer remote appointments, try calling other offices. Sometimes you aren’t restricted to the office in your area.

Reporting changes to your WIC office

Keeping your WIC benefits active means staying in touch with your WIC office about changes in your life. While it might seem like extra work, reporting changes helps make sure you get all the benefits you qualify for.

Report these changes right away:

• New address or phone number
• Pregnancy
• Birth of your baby
• Changes in breastfeeding
• Family members moving in or out
• Changes in custody arrangements
• New job or income changes

Updating your WIC case when someone moves in to help with childcare, like a grandparent, will not affect your benefits negatively. It helps WIC understand your family's situation and provide better nutrition guidance.

WIC certification periods are different depending on the stage of pregnancy you’re in or the age of your child. In general, here’s how long WIC certifications last:

For people who are pregnant: Throughout pregnancy and 6 weeks postpartum

For people who are breastfeeding: Up to 1 year postpartum

For non-breastfeeding parents: 6 months postpartum

For infants and children: 1 year at a time until age 5

To make sure you don’t miss out on any benefits, schedule your renewal appointment one month before your certification period ends. Bring all updated documentation to your appointment and complete any nutrition education requirements.

Moving to a new state with WIC

Each state runs its own WIC program, which means approved foods can vary. For example:

• California might allow certain brands of cereal that New York does not
• Texas might offer different yogurt options than Florida
• Some states might provide more fresh produce options

Your WIC case and food package won’t automatically transfer to a new state if you move. Let your WIC office know you’re moving and get a verification of certification (VOC). If your new WIC office has a waiting list, you’ll go to the top. Your benefits will continue if you show proof that you had WIC before—just make sure to transfer before your current certification period ends. Schedule an appointment in your new state as soon as possible to find out more about that state's approved food options.

What can you buy with WIC?

WIC provides individually tailored food packages worth up to hundreds dollars each month depending on your life stage. WIC benefits for a pregnant person are different from those for an infant or a 2-year-old. The average monthly value of WIC benefits for infants is over $130 per month, while the average benefit for pregnant and postpartum individuals is closer to $40.

Your package is designed specifically for your nutrition needs, whether you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or feeding young children. While WIC won’t cover all of your groceries, it provides foods chosen by medical experts to help fill common gaps in family diets. Keep in mind that each state’s WIC agency chooses which brands and item sizes are approved for WIC food packages.

What you can get with WIC:

• Fresh, frozen, or canned fruits and vegetables
• Milk, cheese, and eggs
• Whole grain bread, cereal, and other grain products
• Beans and peanut butter
• 100% fruit or vegetable juice
• Baby food and formula
• Special foods for breastfeeding parents

There are 7 categories available under the most recent WIC food packages updated in 2024. The latest food packages have:

• More whole grain options for cereal, bread, and other grains
• Yogurt and milk with less sugar
• Foods that fit your culture, diet, and health needs
• Flexible formula amounts to support any amount of breastfeeding
• Different package sizes to make shopping easier

In addition to these staples, WIC also provides “cash value benefits” that are only for fruits and vegetables. From October 2024 through September 2025, the monthly cash value benefit is $47 for pregnant and postpartum WIC recipients, $52 for mostly or fully breastfeeding WIC recipients, and $26 for children.

Have dietary restrictions? WIC has options. Tell your WIC office about:

• Lactose intolerance (they can provide lactose-free milk)
• Food allergies
• Cultural food preferences
• Medical conditions needing special foods

Remember: WIC's goal is to help you eat healthy foods in a way that works for you and your family. They'll work with you to find alternatives that fit your needs.

Shopping with your eWIC card

There are around 47,000 WIC-approved grocery stores nationwide. Stores that accept WIC benefits have a WIC logo on the front window. Instead of paper vouchers, WIC recipients now receive eWIC cards that work like debit cards. This makes shopping much simpler and more discreet. Here's how to make the most of your benefits:

Before you shop:

• Download your state's WIC app (30 states use WICShopper) to scan items and check your balance
• Check which brands and sizes your state's WIC program covers

While you shop:

• Look for "WIC Approved" labels on store shelves
• Buy your fruits and vegetables early in the month so you don’t lose any of your produce dollars

At checkout:

• Always use your eWIC card first, before SNAP or other forms of payment
• Let the checkout system sort your WIC items automatically (you don't need to separate WIC items anymore)

Don’t worry if a WIC-approved item gets declined. Sometimes stores just need to update their systems. Ask for a manager, save your receipt, and call your WIC office if you need help resolving the issue–that’s what they’re here for.

Your grocery store may also offer curbside pick-up, drive-through windows, and special WIC food sections.

Formula and special dietary needs

For families using formula, WIC provides support based on your specific situation. They understand that every baby is different and will work with you to provide:

• The right amount of formula based on your baby's age and needs
• Special formulas if your baby has medical requirements
• Flexible amounts if you're combining breastfeeding and formula
• Support if you need to switch formulas

Just bring a note from your doctor if you need a special formula—WIC will work with you to provide what your baby needs.

Breastfeeding support services & nutrition education requirements

WIC offers peer counseling from trained breastfeeding experts who have breastfed their babies before. Peer counselors can also help you make a plan for pumping when you go back to work or school.

Participating in the WIC program also involves meeting education requirements. These classes are designed to help you make the most of your benefits and ensure your family gets the nutrition support they need.

WIChealth.org is WIC’s online nutrition education portal where parents and caretakers can complete WIC education appointments online. You can access learning programs about healthy habits and child development through a computer or any mobile device.

You’ll receive an appointment reminder text or phone call when it’s time to take an online class. If you prefer to connect with other parents, you can also join a virtual group class on Zoom. Your WIC benefits will be loaded onto your eWIC card after you complete an online class.

Getting discounts with your eWIC card

Participating in the WIC program has other perks apart from the monthly food benefits and support for new parents. Your eWIC card can get you discounts on utility and internet bills, and free or cheaper tickets to thousands of museums and cultural attractions nationwide. Get more information at your WIC office.

Need help?

WIC is here to support you and your family. You’re not alone–roughly 6.6 million parents, babies, and young children use the program each month. Ready to get started? Find your local WIC agency now.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Q: How do I find a WIC office near me?

A: Use our state contact list to find a list of WIC clinics near you. In some areas, you aren’t limited to just one office. Try calling different offices if the one closest to you has a waiting list or doesn’t offer appointments that work for you.

Q: What can I buy with WIC?

A: WIC helps you buy healthy foods that adapt to your family's needs. Your WIC card gets two types of benefits: a dollar amount for fruits and vegetables, plus credits for specific foods like milk, eggs, and whole grains. You can buy any WIC-approved brand at any WIC store—the price doesn't matter. For example, if you get a credit for 16 ounces of whole grain bread, you can choose any approved brand. WIC foods include fruits and vegetables, eggs, milk, cheese, yogurt, beans, peanut butter, cereal, juice, whole grain bread, rice, pasta, tortillas, and formula for babies. Check if your state’s WIC agency has a free app that shows a full list of eligible grocery items.

Q: Can I swap items in my food package?

A: Yes, you can swap certain items in your food package that don’t work for your family. Only your local WIC office can change your food package. They may be able to adjust your benefit list to substitute milk, cereal, and fruit and vegetable products in the middle of the month if you haven’t used your benefits yet. Talk to your WIC dietician if you develop new allergies or dietary concerns.

Q: What do I do if my WIC-eligible items are turned away at checkout?

A: If your WIC-eligible items aren’t scanning properly at checkout, it could be because the store’s inventory isn’t up to date. Ask to speak to a store manager, save your receipt, and call your WIC office if you need help. Report the date and time of the transaction, the store name, and details of the situation to your local WIC shopper support line or office.

Q: How much formula can I get?

A: Your baby's WIC formula amount varies based on how you're feeding your baby. Here's what you can get each month:

If your baby gets mostly formula:

• 0-3 months: Up to 806 fl oz
• 4-5 months: Up to 884 fl oz
• 6-11 months: Up to 624 fl oz

If you're combining breastfeeding & formula:

• 0-3 months: Up to 364 fl oz
• 4-5 months: Up to 442 fl oz
• 6-11 months: Up to 312 fl oz

Your WIC clinic will work with you to provide the right amount of formula that supports your feeding preferences. The amount can be adjusted based on your baby's needs and how much you're breastfeeding.

Q: What can I get if my family is lactose intolerant/has a peanut allergy/other dietary restrictions?

A: WIC offers options like lactose-free milk, soy milk, and tofu. Talk to your WIC dietician before your benefits are issued If you have concerns or special needs. If you or your child develops a new allergy while you’re participating in WIC, your WIC office will help you find substitutes.

Q: How do I shop with my WIC (eWIC) card?

A: WIC food benefits are provided monthly on a reloadable eWIC card that works like a debit card. When you receive your card, set a 4-digit PIN that’s easy for you to remember but hard for others to guess. You’ll need your PIN every time you shop.

You can ask your WIC office for a list of locations that accept WIC or look for a WIC sign out front at your local stores. At the store, scan product barcodes with your state’s free WIC app to see if they’re eligible. Don’t forget to use your fruit and vegetable cash value balance.

At checkout, follow your cashier’s instructions, but always remember to use your WIC card first before other forms of payment. Each store may have a slightly different checkout system for WIC.

Q: What does it mean to be at “nutritional risk?”

A: WIC applicants must go through a health screening to find out if they are in need of WIC benefits. Being underweight, overweight, anemic, or having poor dietary intake are all reasons why a health professional would recommend you for WIC.

Q: How do WIC online classes and certificates work?

A: While WIC requires all participants to complete nutrition education, it's designed to be convenient. You'll learn simple ways to make healthier food and exercise choices that work for your family. Your local WIC office will explain your options for completing the classes, which you can often do online using your phone or computer. Since each state runs its own WIC program, your WIC office will let you know exactly which classes you need and how to take them. Typically, you’ll only have to complete 1-2 learning programs per certification period.

Q: How do I get nutritional counseling?

A: Once your WIC application is accepted, you’ll meet with a WIC dietician at your local clinic to talk about staying healthy during and after pregnancy. They'll explain how your food choices, daily habits, and overall health affect you and your growing baby. Your dietician can also share helpful tips for getting your children to try more fruits and vegetables. You can reach out to your dietician anytime you need support while you're in the WIC program.

Q: Can I get WIC if I’m on Medicaid?

A: Yes, Medicaid recipients automatically qualify for WIC if they are pregnant, recently postpartum, or caring for a child under 5.

Q: Can I get WIC if I’m on SNAP?

A: Yes, SNAP recipients automatically qualify for WIC if they are pregnant, recently postpartum, or caring for a child under 5.