WIC
A federal nutrition assistance program providing supplemental foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and healthcare referrals to low-income pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, and children up to age 5.
Income limit: at or below 185% FPL. Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF enrollment often auto-qualifies. WIC provides specific food packages (e.g., infant formula, cereal, eggs, milk, juice) . not a general grocery benefit like SNAP.
WIC and SNAP can be used simultaneously . they cover different needs and are entirely separate programs.
→ WIC enrollment is handled through state and local health departments.
Also known as
Related terms
- Federal Poverty Level
An income measure published annually by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), used to determine eligibility for dozens of federal benefit programs.
- SNAP
The nation's largest food assistance program (formerly known as Food Stamps) that provides monthly benefits via EBT card to help low-income individuals and families purchase groceries.
- TANF
A federal block grant program that provides states with funding for cash assistance, childcare, job training, and other supports for low-income families with children.
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Frequently asked questions about WIC
What is WIC?+
WIC stands for Women, Infants, and Children. It is a government program that helps families with food and nutrition. WIC gives healthy foods, teaches about good eating, helps moms with breastfeeding, and connects families to health care. It supports pregnant moms, new moms, and children up to age 5.
Who can get WIC benefits?+
WIC is for pregnant women, women who just had a baby, and breastfeeding women. It also helps children up to their fifth birthday. To qualify, families need to have a lower income. You also need to be at risk for not eating healthy, as found by a health worker.
How do I apply for the WIC program?+
To apply for WIC, you need to contact your state or local WIC agency. You can look online for their contact information. They will tell you what papers to bring. You will then have an appointment to see if you qualify and to get your benefits started.
What kind of foods can I get with WIC?+
WIC provides foods like fruits, vegetables, milk, cheese, eggs, and whole-wheat bread. You can also get cereal, juice, peanut butter, and beans. For babies, WIC can provide baby food and formula. The exact foods might change depending on where you live.