Benefit Karma

If you’re pregnant, just had a baby, or are raising young children, the cost of healthy food can add up fast. That’s where WIC — the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children — comes in. WIC provides nutritious foods, breastfeeding support, and referrals to health services for families who qualify.

Unlike SNAP (food stamps), WIC is targeted specifically to mothers, babies, and kids under age five. And instead of just giving cash benefits, WIC offers a package of healthy foods like milk, eggs, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and baby formula. If you qualify, signing up for WIC can help stretch your grocery budget and support your family’s health.

Here’s what you need to know about applying for WIC and what to expect.

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Key Takeaways:

WIC supports pregnant women, new moms, infants, and kids under age five.
You must apply through your local WIC office and attend an appointment.
Bring documents showing income, residency, and ID.
Benefits come through an eWIC card, which works like a debit card at approved stores.
You’ll need to renew eligibility regularly to keep benefits.

Who can get WIC?

You may qualify for the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program if you are:

Pregnant, breastfeeding, or postpartum (recently gave birth)
An infant under age 1
A child under age 5

In addition, you must meet income limits (generally at or below 185% of the federal poverty line) and live in the state where you’re applying. Many families who already receive SNAP, Medicaid, or TANF are automatically income-eligible for WIC.

How do you sign up for the WIC program?

So, if you’re among those who qualify for WIC, here’s what you do to sign up for it:

Step 1: Find your local WIC office

WIC is run by state and local agencies. To apply, contact your local WIC office. You can search “[your state] WIC program” or use the USDA’s WIC locator tool to find the nearest office.

Step 2: Make an appointment

Unlike SNAP, you can’t apply for WIC entirely online. You’ll need to schedule an in-person appointment at your local WIC clinic. Some states allow parts of the process to be done by phone or virtually, but most require at least one in-person visit.

Step 3: Gather your documents

Bring the following to your appointment:

Proof of identity (driver’s license, birth certificate, or other official ID)
Proof of residence (utility bill, lease, or other document showing your address)
Proof of income (pay stubs, Medicaid card, SNAP approval letter, or tax return)
For pregnant women: proof of pregnancy from a doctor or clinic
For children: immunization records, if available

Step 4: Attend your appointment

At the appointment, a WIC staff member will:

Check your documents
Measure and weigh you and/or your children
Review health and nutrition information
Confirm your eligibility

If approved, you’ll be enrolled in the program and receive your WIC benefits.

Step 5: Start using your WIC benefits

Most states now use an eWIC card (similar to a debit card) to load your monthly food package. You can use this card at authorized grocery stores to buy specific WIC-approved foods. Staff will explain which foods are covered and how to use the card at checkout.

Step 6: Keep up with follow-up visits

WIC certification usually lasts 6–12 months, depending on your situation. You’ll need to return to the clinic for follow-up visits to renew your benefits, update your child’s health records, and continue receiving support.

What happens if you’re denied?

If you’re told you don’t qualify, you’ll get a written notice with the reason. You have the right to file an appeal and request a hearing if you believe the decision was made in error.