WIC Benefits — Women, Infants & Children

WIC — the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children — provides monthly food benefits, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and health referrals to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and children under age 5.

Who qualifies for WIC?

WIC is available to pregnant women, postpartum women (up to 6 months after delivery), breastfeeding women (up to 12 months after delivery), infants, and children up to their 5th birthday. To qualify, household income must be at or below 185% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) — roughly $29,620/year for a single person or $60,840/year for a family of four (2026).

Key eligibility factors:

• Income at or below 185% FPL — though many states use 200% FPL or higher
• Must be pregnant, postpartum, breastfeeding, an infant, or a child under 5
• Must be at nutritional risk — nearly all applicants meet this requirement
• U.S. citizenship is not required — non-citizens including undocumented immigrants may apply for eligible children
• Available in all 50 states, D.C., and five U.S. territories

If you receive Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF you are automatically income-eligible for WIC — no additional income verification needed.

What does WIC provide?

WIC benefits include:

• Monthly food benefits loaded onto a WIC EBT card for approved nutritious foods
• Nutrition education and counseling at every WIC visit
• Breastfeeding support including peer counselors and breast pump access
• Referrals to healthcare providers, immunization clinics, and social services

The average WIC benefit is worth approximately $50–$100 per person per month in food value, though infant formula benefits can be worth significantly more.

What foods can I buy with WIC?

WIC benefits cover specific nutritious foods approved by the USDA. Approved items typically include:

• Milk, cheese, and eggs
• Whole grain breads, cereals, brown rice, oatmeal, and whole wheat tortillas
• Fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen, or canned without added salt or sugar)
• Legumes (dried beans and peas) and peanut butter
• 100% fruit or vegetable juice
• Infant formula and infant cereal
• Baby foods (fruits, vegetables, and meats for infants 6 months and older)

Exact approved foods and quantities vary by state and by the participant's age and nutritional needs. Your WIC office will give you a food package tailored to your household.

What documents do I need?

• Proof of identity (ID, birth certificate, or hospital record)
• Proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement)
• Proof of income (pay stubs, tax return, or program enrollment letter)
• Proof of pregnancy if applicable (doctor's note or medical record)
• Child's immunization record (recommended but not always required)

How to apply for WIC

WIC is administered locally. To apply, contact your local WIC clinic — most clinics offer walk-in appointments and some offer online or phone pre-screening. Your first appointment will include a height/weight measurement and a brief nutritional assessment.

Benefits can start the same day as your first appointment in many states.

Find your local WIC office at USDA.gov →

Common questions

Does WIC work like a debit card?

Yes. Most states issue a WIC EBT card that works like a debit card at approved grocery stores and pharmacies. You can only purchase specific WIC-approved foods — the cashier's system knows which items qualify.

Can fathers or other caregivers apply for WIC for their child?

Yes. Any parent, legal guardian, or caregiver can apply for WIC on behalf of an eligible infant or child under 5. The child does not need to be present at every appointment.

Can I get both WIC and SNAP at the same time?

Yes. WIC and SNAP are separate programs — receiving one does not affect the other. Many families use both. WIC covers specific foods for women and young children; SNAP covers a broader range of groceries for the entire household.

What foods can I buy with WIC?

WIC-approved foods include milk, eggs, cheese, whole grains (bread, cereal, brown rice, tortillas), fruits and vegetables, legumes, peanut butter, 100% juice, and infant formula and cereal. The exact approved list varies slightly by state.