What is WIC Program? Here’s What It’ll Buy…

The WIC program, which stands for Women, Infants, and Children, is like a helping hand for families who want to make sure their kids are healthy and strong. If you’re pregnant, just had a baby, or have kids under five, WIC offers access to healthy foods, advice on nutrition, and tips on where to find healthcare services. It’s all about giving your family the best start possible.

WIC isn’t just about food — it’s about making a healthy lifestyle possible. The program connects you with nutrition experts who guide you in making smart food choices, helping your little ones grow up strong and healthy. Whether you need support with groceries or valuable advice on feeding your family, WIC is here to help.

To learn more about all the benefits available to you and your family, sign up now for BenefitKarma (click the link in the blue box)!

What is WIC?

The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program is a federal assistance program that provides nutritional support to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and young children up to age five. WIC helps makes sure families have access to healthy foods and nutritional counseling to support the health and development of both mothers and their children.

Who is eligible for WIC?

Eligibility for WIC is determined by several factors:

Income: Your family’s income must be at or below 185% of the federal poverty level (FPL). For a family of four in 2024, this means a gross monthly income of $3,485 or less, based on guidelines from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
Nutritional risk: You must demonstrate a need for nutritional assistance, usually assessed through a health screening. This could include concerns like low iron levels, a poor diet, or other health-related issues.
Residency: You must live in the state where you’re applying for WIC benefits. Residency is required to qualify for assistance.

What can you buy with WIC?

WIC provides benefits for specific nutritious foods, including:

Fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen, or canned)
Whole grain products (bread, pasta, brown rice, tortillas)
Milk and dairy products (cheese, yogurt)
Eggs
Peanut butter and legumes
Canned fish (for breastfeeding mothers)
Iron-fortified adult cereal
100% fruit or vegetable juice
Infant formula
Infant cereals and baby foods

The exact quantity and types of foods provided depend on your participant category (pregnant, postpartum, breastfeeding woman, infant, or child) and individual nutritional needs as determined by a WIC nutritionist. Special dietary needs are also considered, and alternative food options may be available upon request.

How are WIC benefits provided?

WIC benefits are distributed through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, similar to a debit card. Here’s how it works:

Participants use the WIC EBT card at authorized retailers.
At checkout, they swipe their EBT card.
The cost of eligible items is automatically deducted from their WIC balance.
Your store receipt will show your remaining balance, which can be used for future purchases within the benefit period.

Some states may still use paper vouchers, but most have transitioned to the EBT system for ease and efficiency.

Where can you use your WIC benefits?

WIC benefit cards can be used at various locations:

Grocery stores: Major chains like Walmart, Kroger, Safeway, and Publix accept WIC benefit cards. Check with your local store to confirm.
Farmers’ markets: Many farmers’ markets accept WIC benefits for fresh produce and other eligible items. Look for markets approved by your state’s WIC program.
Online retailers: Some online retailers like Amazon accept WIC benefits depending on your state’s program. Check with the retailer and your state’s WIC program for details.
Convenience stores: Some convenience stores accept WIC cards, but selection may be limited compared to larger grocery stores.
Pharmacies: Certain pharmacies, such as Walgreens and CVS, may accept WIC benefits for eligible food items. Confirm with your local pharmacy.

Always check with the retailer beforehand to ensure they accept WIC benefits and verify eligible items.

How long do you receive WIC benefits? Do they expire?

WIC benefits are generally provided for six-month periods. Here’s how it works:

Certification period: Benefits are available for up to six months. To continue receiving benefits, you must complete a recertification process at the end of this period.
Eligibility: Benefits are provided to pregnant women, new mothers, and children up to age five. They end when your child turns five or if you no longer meet the program’s income and nutritional criteria.
Recertification: To maintain benefits, you need to attend regular recertification appointments to update your information and confirm ongoing eligibility.

Benefits typically run out at the end of the certification period but may end sooner if your circumstances change, such as exceeding income limits or if your child reaches the age limit. Keep track of your certification dates and any eligibility changes to avoid interruptions.

How to apply for WIC

Applying for WIC is straightforward:

Find your local WIC office: Locate your nearest WIC office through the state’s WIC website or by calling a local health department.
Prepare your documents: Gather proof of income, residency, and nutritional risk.
Apply: Visit the WIC office or use the state’s online application portal to submit your application.
Attend an appointment: Complete a health and nutrition assessment to determine eligibility.

Note: Fathers can apply on behalf of their children if the mother is unavailable.

How does WIC affect other benefits?

Receiving WIC benefits generally does not impact other assistance programs:

SNAP: You can use both WIC and SNAP. WIC provides specific nutritious foods, while SNAP covers a broader range of groceries.
Medicaid: WIC benefits do not affect your Medicaid coverage. Medicaid provides healthcare, and WIC offers additional nutritional support.
Other programs: WIC does not interfere with other assistance like housing or utility support, providing extra help with food and nutrition.

How is WIC different from SNAP?

WIC and SNAP both provide nutritional support but have distinct differences:

Target population: WIC supports pregnant women, new mothers, and young children up to age five, while SNAP assists low-income individuals and families of all ages.
Benefit structure: WIC offers specific food packages (e.g., fruits, vegetables, dairy) through vouchers or EBT cards, while SNAP provides a flexible monthly benefit for a wide range of food items.
Eligibility: WIC is based on income (up to 185% of poverty level), nutritional need, and demographic criteria, while SNAP is based on income (up to 130% of poverty level), household size, and expenses.
Application process: WIC requires a health and nutrition assessment at local clinics, whereas SNAP applications can be submitted online, by mail, or in person at local offices.
Benefit duration: WIC benefits are assessed every six months, while SNAP benefits are provided monthly and reassessed every 6 to 12 months.