Your Free Guide to WIC

Your Free Guide to WIC

What is the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC)?

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) is a federal assistance program that provides food, nutrition and health care services to eligible children and pregnant, postpartum and breastfeeding women. It is overseen by the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). WIC is available in all 50 states, U.S. territories and several tribal nations throughout the country. 

Basic WIC Eligibility

All WIC participants must meet the general eligibility guidelines in order to receive any food, nutrition or health care services. WIC is available to:

• Pregnant women
• Breastfeeding mothers
• Postpartum women
• Children and infants 5 years of age or younger

There are a few national eligibility standards that all agencies use to determine who qualifies for WIC. These are:

• Income
• Age or stage of pregnancy
• Residency 
• Nutritional risk

Learn more about eligibility requirements in the section “WIC Program Eligibility Requirements.”

Federal WIC Contact Information

WIC is operated in each state and territory by local WIC agencies, but it is administered at the federal level by the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service.

For general WIC program information, you can reach the FNS by phone at:

You can also contact the FNS by mail at:

WIC vs. Food Stamps

WIC is similar to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also referred to as Food Stamps. Both programs provide nutrition assistance to eligible individuals in the U.S. However, the two programs differ in their eligibility requirements, application processes and program goals.

The goal of SNAP is to provide healthy foods to benefit recipients and to help them achieve self-sufficiency. SNAP recipients can use their benefits to purchase a variety of USDA-approved food for groceries. To enroll in SNAP, qualifying individuals must submit an application and complete an interview to confirm eligibility. SNAP is available to eligible families and individuals of all ages. 

WIC, however, is only available to pregnant, breastfeeding, and non-breastfeeding postpartum women, and to infants and children up to age five who are found to be at nutritional risk. The goal of WIC is to provide qualifying women and their children supplemental food, health care referrals, and nutrition education. 

Unlike SNAP applicants, WIC applicants must undergo a health evaluation as part of the application process. The benefits provided through WIC are tailored to the recipient after undergoing a health assessment. 

The income guidelines for SNAP and WIC are similar from location to location, because many states, territories and tribes manage both SNAP and WIC programs through a single department. 

For information on SNAP eligibility requirements, application processes and how to get in contact with a local office in your state, visit the SNAP State Directory of Resources on the USDA website here: https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/state-directory.

WIC Contact Information by State, Territory and Tribe

The table below includes contact information for each state, territory and tribe that has a WIC program. The tribes listed in this table are the only federally recognized tribes that participate in the WIC program.

WIC Program Eligibility Requirements

To receive WIC benefits, you must meet all program criteria. Most requirements are instilled at the national level, which means all states, territories and tribes adhere to them when determining program eligibility. However, some vary slightly between state programs. 

Read the sections below to learn more about specific eligibility requirements and those that vary from location to location.

WIC Income Requirement

To qualify for WIC, your income must fall within specific limits. The program is meant to assist low-income individuals, so your state, territory or tribe will consider your annual income to determine if you are considered a low-income participant. 

WIC income limits are determined based on:

• The number of family members in the household
• The cost of living in your state, territory or tribe

Your income before taxes must be at or below 185 percent of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).

Income Eligibility for the 48 Contiguous U.S. States, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands

The table below lists the current maximum income amounts based on the size of the household for the 48 contiguous states, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), Guam, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Household income is defined as the total amount of money earned by all income-earning members who reside in your home. These income guidelines are valid through June 30, 2025.

Income Eligibility for Alaska and Hawaii

The table below lists the maximum income amounts based on the size of the household for Alaska and Hawaii.

Age and Stage of Pregnancy Requirement

To obtain WIC benefits, women must meet one of three pregnancy criteria. Women may be eligible to receive WIC benefits in the following situations:

• During pregnancy and up to six weeks after birth or end of pregnancy
• For up to six months after birth or end of pregnancy
• Until the infant reaches age 1 if they are breastfeeding

Children can only receive WIC benefits if they meet an age requirement. Children may be eligible to receive WIC benefits until they reach 5 years of age.

Residency Requirement

WIC applicants must reside in the state or territory in which they apply for benefits. There is not a certain period of time that they must live in the state before receiving WIC benefits. They can apply as soon as they establish residency. 

Applicants who live in an area with an Indian Tribal Organization (ITO) must meet the residency requirements established by the ITO. 

The WIC program recommends contacting your specific tribal council for eligibility information, as requirements vary between tribes. Refer to the table “WIC Contact Information by State, Territory and Tribe” in this guide for ITO contact information.

Nutrition Risk Requirement

All WIC program participants must be considered to be at nutritional risk. This determination can only be provided by a licensed healthcare professional, such as a doctor, nurse or nutritionist. To determine nutrition risk, the health professional performs a medical or nutrition assessment. 

The WIC program loosely defines nutrition risk as any nutritional conditions, medical conditions related to nutrition, dietary deficiencies or other health conditions that make individuals susceptible to malnourishment. The following are examples of qualifying conditions:

• Anemia (low blood levels)
• Being underweight 
• Having a poor diet
• A history of pregnancy complications
• The advanced age of the mother

Each state, territory and tribe has the freedom to define the types of conditions acceptable to qualify for WIC benefits. The licensed health professional will determine if your condition(s) meets the state, territory or tribe’s nutrition risk criteria. 

The USDA has a WIC PreScreening tool that helps you determine if you may be eligible for the program. It is not an application for the program; the tool analyzes your information and determines if you may be a good candidate for WIC. To use the PreScreening tool, you must provide the following:

• Personal information, including information about pregnant household members
• The state, territory or tribe in which you live
• Information about current enrollment in Medicaid, SNAP or TANF
• The number of people who live in your household
• Your household income

If you need assistance using the PreScreening tool, watch the help video on the WIC PreScreening tool webpage. Access the tool here: https://wic.fns.usda.gov/wps/pages/preScreenTool.xhtml 

WIC Application Process

To receive WIC benefits, you must make an appointment with your state, territory or tribal WIC agency. At the appointment, a WIC coordinator will review your eligibility for the program and assist you with the application process. If you are approved, you will receive WIC benefits you can use to purchase supplemental foods for yourself or for your child.

When to Apply to WIC

Apply to the WIC program as soon as you believe you qualify for benefits. WIC serves women, infants and children at different stages. Refer to the section titled “Age and Stage of Pregnancy Requirement” to see if you fall into any of the described categories. 

WIC Certification Appointment

The WIC certification appointment is a mandatory screening in every state, territory and tribe’s WIC program. The appointment is the first step in applying for benefits and must take place at an approved local WIC agency. 

Each individual applying for benefits must attend the in-person appointment, including infants and children. Pregnant women applying for benefits can count each unborn child as an applicant. During the appointment, the WIC coordinator will verify program eligibility by analyzing the applicant’s information and documents. Continue reading the sections below to learn about the types of information and documents that are needed during the WIC appointment. 

Applicants will undergo a nutrition risk assessment to determine eligibility and the types of services for which they qualify. Local WIC agencies have competent professional authorities (CPAs) to perform these assessments. At your WIC appointment, you will meet with one of the following:

• A doctor
• A nurse
• A dietician
• A nutritionist
• A physician’s assistant (PA)
• Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)

CPAs are trained to screen all WIC applicants to determine health areas that need improvement. They ask questions about the health of the entire family and measure all applicants’ height, weight and blood iron status. 

Upon completing their assessment, CPAs prescribe food packages based on the applicant’s needs, answer questions, provide nutrition education and act as a point of contact during the application process. For more information about WIC benefits and services, refer to the section “WIC Benefits” in this guide.

After the appointment, the applicant will be advised if they qualify for the WIC program. The coordinator will review with the applicant the types of services for which they qualify, provide a verification of certification (VOC) and issue a WIC electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card. 

The EBT card, which functions like a debit card for transactions, will be how benefits are provided to the recipient. For more information, refer to the section called “How WIC Benefits Are Distributed to Participants” in this guide. 

Once the applicant receives an EBT card loaded with benefits, they can use it to purchase necessary food and supplements.

Your EBT card will be replenished with food benefits at follow-up WIC appointments, which typically occur every two to three months. Refer to the section “WIC Contact Information by State, Territory and Tribe” for more information on how to get in contact with your local office. 

Information Needed for the WIC Appointment

To apply to the WIC program, you must make an application appointment with a local WIC agency. You will need to submit a variety of information during the appointment so that the WIC coordinator can verify your eligibility for the program.

Be prepared to provide the following information at your WIC appointment:

• Identity information
  • You will need the full names, dates of birth and Social Security Numbers (SSNs) for all individuals in your household who are applying for WIC.
• Income information
  • Provide income information for all individuals in your household for the last 30 days, even those who are not applying for WIC.
  • Include income from all sources, including a job, child support, alimony and unemployment.
• Residency information
  • You must provide information about where you live.

Documents Needed for the WIC Appointment

You must bring all documents needed to verify the information you provide during the WIC appointment for everyone applying for benefits. The following documents are acceptable to confirm your information.

Documents Proving Identity – Provide ONE for Each Applicant

Documents Proving Income – You may need one or a combination of the following:

Documents Proving Residency

• Current, valid driver’s license
• Utility bill
• Rent receipt
• Mortgage/rent documents, such as a mortgage statement or a signed lease

How to Apply to WIC and Schedule an Appointment by State, Territory and Tribe

Review the sections below for information about applying to the WIC program in each state, territory or tribal nation. The first step in the application process is scheduling a WIC appointment at a local agency. It is during this appointment that you will submit information and documents to support your claim for WIC benefits.

The list below provides information on how to find a local WIC agency in your area.

WIC Denials and Appeals

If your WIC application is denied, you have the right to file an appeal to determine if you were wrongly denied benefits. Follow the steps outlined in the sections below to appeal the decision.

Common Reasons for an Application Denial

If your WIC application is rejected, the WIC office is required to provide a reason for the denial. In most cases, you will be told about your denial during your first WIC appointment, during which the coordinator will explain the reason for the denial. 

Here are some common reasons why you can be denied WIC benefits:

When to File an Appeal

If you believe you qualify for WIC benefits despite being denied, file an appeal with your local WIC office. Appeals are suited for situations that can be easily corrected. The following scenarios should be followed with an appeal:

• Your application has missing or incorrect information.
• You forgot to provide necessary documents.
• You missed your WIC appointment.
• You or your child applicants were not determined to have a nutritional risk before but are at risk now.

How to File an Appeal

The appeal process can vary slightly in each state, territory or tribe. However, there is a standard procedure for starting the appeal process with your local WIC office. 

1. Determine the reason for denial. The WIC coordinator will advise you why you do not qualify. 
2. Make an oral request for a review with the local WIC coordinator. He or she will take another look at your documents and may reverse the decision without requesting guidance from the state, territory or tribal WIC agency.
3. Request an appeal with the state, territory or tribal WIC agency. If the coordinator does not reverse the decision, request that he or she forward the case to the larger agency.
4. Gather evidence. Depending on the reason for denial, you may need to provide additional documents to prove your eligibility. Refer to the section “Documents Needed for the WIC Appointment” for a list of documents you need to prove your eligibility during the application process.
5. Prepare for a fair hearing. Depending on where you live, you may be entitled to a fair hearing, where you can provide evidence and witness testimony proving your eligibility for WIC. You can also hire legal representation. 
6. Receive a final decision. If the decision is sustained and you are not approved to receive WIC benefits, you can apply for the program at a later time if your situation changes. You can also file a second appeal through a superior court in order to have a judge review the case and issue their decision. They may reverse the initial decision or confirm it.

To begin the appeal process, contact your local WIC agency and notify them of your desire to appeal. Refer to the section “WIC Contact Information by State, Territory and Tribe” for local contact information. 

WIC Waiting Periods

Some WIC applicants may experience a waiting period. This occurs when a local WIC office reaches its maximum caseload and cannot serve all eligible applicants. Those who are eligible for WIC benefits may be placed on a waiting list and categorized in a priority system. This system ensures the most at-risk participants are served first.

The WIC Priority System

The U.S. Department of Agriculture created a priority system to help fill vacancies on the waiting lists of local WIC offices. The system places the most nutritionally needy applicants toward the top so they can receive benefits as soon as possible. 

The list below explains the WIC priority system on a numerical scale, with 1 receiving highest priority.

1. Pregnant women, breastfeeding women and infants who have a nutritional need due to a serious medical condition
2. Infants up to 6 months of age whose mothers had serious medical complications and participated (or could have participated) in the WIC program
3. Children with a nutritional need due to a serious medical condition
4. Pregnant women, breastfeeding women and infants who are at risk due to dietary problems
5. Children at nutritional risk due to dietary problems
6. Non-breastfeeding postpartum women with any nutritional risk
7. Individuals who are at nutritional risk due to homelessness or current participants who, without WIC foods, could continue to have dietary and/or medical problems

If you fall into one of the categories toward the bottom of the list and your local WIC agency is close to capacity, you may need to wait to receive WIC benefits.

WIC Benefits

The WIC program provides three main categories of benefits to women, infants and children enrolled in the program. These are:

1. Food Packages
2. Nutrition Education
3. Breastfeeding Support and Services

WIC Food Packages

WIC participants are given a specific food package category by their WIC agency. These packages are categorized by participant (either infant, child or woman), stage of pregnancy and by amount of breastfeeding. In each food package, participants are limited when it comes to the amount of food they may purchase each month. These limits are known as “monthly allowances.”

With their WIC benefits, participants can purchase WIC-approved foods from participating retailers in their location. Approved foods and food types vary by state, territory and location, but the USDA determines the food categories (i.e. juice, milk, infant cereal) that must be provided by WIC programs. This is to ensure that the primary goal of the program, to supply nutritious items meant to improve the health and wellbeing of program participants, is achieved. 

Infant Food Packages

There are three types of infant food packages available to babies 0-11 months of age. Each package is geared toward a specific population based on age, health status and whether the infant is formula-fed or breast-fed. Also, each package includes different types of food and supplements in varying amounts.

These are:

• WIC formula 
• Infant cereal
• Fruit and vegetable-based baby food
• Meat-based baby food

Food package I is for infants 0 through 5 months of age who do not have any food allergies or special medical conditions. 

Food package II is for infants 6 through 11 months of age who do not have any food allergies or special medical conditions. 

Food package III is for participants with special nutritional needs or qualifying medical conditions. It is available to WIC participants of all ages with medical documentation from a licensed health professional. Participants with the following conditions qualify for Food Package III:

• Low birth weight
• Prematurity 
• Gastrointestinal disorders
• Severe food allergies
• Metabolic disorders
• Malabsorption syndromes
• Other medical conditions that impair digestion, ingestion or absorption 

States, territories and tribes determine which brands of foods within each category of each package are WIC approved. Refer to the section “WIC-Approved Foods” for WIC-approved foods in each location. 

The table below details all WIC food packages for infants and the maximum monthly allowances for each type of food. 

The monthly allowance of each type of food and supplement is explained in fluid ounces (fl oz) or ounces (oz). State, territory and tribal agencies “round up” to the next whole container size to make it easier to receive the full nutrition benefit. This means that if the number of containers to be issued to a WIC participant does not result in a whole number, the WIC agency must round up to the next whole container.

“Reconstituted liquid concentrate” is a type of formula that, after adding water, is in liquid form. It is different from powdered formula.

To help calculate formula amounts, the USDA created a helpful WIC Infant Formula Calculator. Simply enter the brand name, formula type (reconstituted liquid concentrate, powder or ready-to-eat), container size in ounces and reconstituted fluid ounce yield. Then, choose the method of issuance (round-up, maximum monthly allowance or both). 

The web tool will then calculate the total number of containers available per food package type. 

Access the Infant Formula Calculator here: https://wicworks.fns.usda.gov/resources/wic-infant-formula-calculator-instructions 

Minimum Requirements for Infant Food

While each individual state, territory and tribal WIC agency is ultimately responsible for choosing the specific types of food in each category, they must adhere to minimum requirements set by the FDA. 

The table below outlines the minimum requirements for WIC formula, infant cereal, fruit and vegetable-based baby food and meat-based baby food.

Infant Formula Rebate System

The Infant Formula Rebate System allows state, territory and tribal WIC programs to receive a partial refund for each can of infant formula purchased by WIC participants. WIC agencies encourage breastfeeding, but women who choose to bottle feed their babies are eligible to purchase formula with WIC funds, as described above. 

WIC agencies that do participate in this system have rebate contracts with a single formula company, which means program participants can only purchase formula from this specific company. In return, the WIC agency receives a partial refund, also known as a rebate, for each can of formula that is sold. The savings garnered by this system allows the program to serve more women and children. 

All 50 states except Vermont and Mississippi are required to bid on contracts with a formula provider to participate in this system. Vermont has a home delivery system for formula, and Mississippi uses a direct distribution system, which is why these states do not bid on contracts under this system. Additionally, some territory and tribal WIC agencies serve too few individuals and therefore are not required to bid.

Food Packages for Children

There is one food package available for children ages 1 through 4 who do not have special nutrition needs or qualifying medical conditions. It contains a variety of food and drinks in specific monthly allowances. States, territories and tribes determine which brands of foods are available in each category within each package. Refer to the section “WIC-Approved Foods” in this guide for WIC-approved foods in each location.

The table below includes information about Food Package IV (for children 1 through 4), including the types of food categories and monthly allowances.

Food Packages for Women

There are three food packages available to women without special nutritional needs or medical conditions. Each package is designed for women who are pregnant, postpartum or breastfeeding. States, territories and tribes determine which brands of foods are available in each category within each package. Refer to the section “WIC-Approved Foods” to learn about WIC-approved foods in each location.

Food package V is for pregnant women and women who are mostly breastfeeding their infants for up to one year after giving birth (also known as one year postpartum). 

Food package VI is available to postpartum women for up to six months. 

Food package VII is for women who are fully breastfeeding for up to one year postpartum. 

The table below includes information about all three food packages available to women through the WIC program. The monthly allowances are measured in fluid ounces (fl oz), ounces (oz), quarts (qt) or pounds (lb). 

WIC Approved Foods

The USDA creates food packages for infants, children and women and determines monthly allowances for each type of food, but local agencies in each state, territory and tribe are responsible for creating a WIC-approved food guide that contains specific brands available through their programs. 

WIC agencies provide multiple options within each food category, allowing participants to choose from a list of approved brands. Each state, territory and tribe also determines which items may be swapped and which items may not be substituted. For example, if an approved food brand is unavailable due to limited or low quantity, locations can approve substitutes for WIC participants.

The table below includes a link to each state, territory and tribal WIC agency’s approved food list or pamphlet. 

Nutrition Education

The WIC program provides nutrition education to all participants. The goal of this service is to initiate a change in diet and lifestyle to promote a lifelong maintenance of health and wellness. Program participants receive specific education and services based on their individual needs. These are determined in the participant’s first WIC appointment. For more information about the appointment process, refer to the section “WIC Certification Appointment” in this guide.

Depending on their needs, WIC program participants are given tips on how to eat healthy, instill good habits in their children and participate in an active lifestyle. During instruction, they can learn how to cook, prepare meals and how to shop for healthy food at the grocery store. 

Nutrition education is provided at least twice per every six month period. Participants receive this at agencies and community centers in their area. Depending on the participant’s preferences and nutritional needs, it can be given in the following methods:

• Face-to-face instruction (in group or individual settings)
• Online 
• Over-the-phone

WIC coordinators work with participants to determine the best format of nutrition education. Some participants may prefer learning in a classroom setting, while others prefer learning through online materials. The format of education is determined at the first WIC appointment, but may be changed at any time if either the participant or the coordinator feel it is not effective.

In addition to the above, WIC programs provide reinforcements and take-home materials to further help participants gain the most out of the program. Depending on the WIC agency, participants receive the following reinforcements during their time in the program:

• Pamphlets 
• Brochures
• Videos
• Slideshows 

A follow-up assessment helps WIC coordinators determine if the nutrition education has been effective. State, territory and tribal WIC programs are required to provide an educational service for each participant at least twice for every six month period. Reinforcement materials listed above do not count as a service alone; they must be provided alongside a face-to-face, online or phone service. 

During each nutrition education service, program participants are encouraged to engage in discussions and ask questions. If the education has been ineffective, the WIC coordinator will recommend a change in the type or method of instruction. 

Breastfeeding Support and Services

Breastfeeding support is available to pregnant women and those who are breastfeeding. The USDA promotes different services in the four stages of breastfeeding.

Stage 1: Learn

In this stage, women are either preparing for or considering starting breastfeeding. They will learn about the entire process, including some common challenges they may face and how to overcome them. WIC agencies provide instruction on the following topics:

• The benefits of breastfeeding
• When to nurse and how long to nurse for
• Breastfeeding supplies
• How breast milk is made
• How to pump
• Breastfeeding rights (i.e. where and when you can pump)

Stage 2: Start

The next stage is the beginning of breastfeeding, which usually begins immediately after the birth of the infant. Women in this stage receive guidance and tips on the following topics:

• How to tell if the infant latches onto the nipple
• Common breastfeeding hold positions (Cradle, cross-cradle and side-lying)
• Treating sore nipples
• Storing and thawing excess breast milk 
• Phases of breast milk
• How often to nurse

Stage 3: Overcome

In this stage, women learn how to overcome common breastfeeding challenges and connect to a community who may be going through similar struggles. They receive support for the following topics and/or issues:

• Cluster feeding and growth spurts
• Breastfeeding a teething baby
• Plugged ducts, mastitis and thrush
• Concerns about low milk supply
• Going back to work or school while breastfeeding

Stage 4: Thrive

Women in this stage are comfortable with breastfeeding and may wish to share their successes with women currently in the other stages. WIC agencies provide a platform for mothers who are interested in helping support the previous three stages. 

Women can choose to become peer counselors in their area, offering guidance and an additional point of contact for others. Refer the section “WIC Contact Information by State, Territory and Tribe” to find your WIC agency’s contact information if you are interested in learning how to become a WIC counselor. 

How WIC Benefits are Distributed to Participants

Most WIC participants across the country receive their benefits through an electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card. An EBT card is similar to a debit card. This system replaces paper vouchers and allows participants to check their balance online. 

The WIC program is in the midst of a complete transition to EBT cards in each location. Most states, territories and tribes are fully EBT-operational, while others are still in the implementation or pilot stages. The sections below outline the phases of each location and include information about estimated dates of shifting to the next phase. 

The following areas are in the implementation phase. These locations still have a paper voucher system, but are slowly transitioning to EBT cards:

Only New Jersey, Georgia and Puerto Rico remain in the pilot phase, which means it is almost fully EBT-operational.

The remaining states, territories and tribes have a statewide EBT system for all WIC participants. 

How do WIC EBT cards work?

Once you are accepted into the program, you will receive an EBT card loaded with your WIC food benefits. If you have multiple family members approved for the WIC program, all their food benefits will be loaded onto the same card. You can use your EBT card at participating stores and retailers just like a regular debit card with a personal identification number (PIN). 

You do not need to purchase all your food benefits at once. If you have any benefits left on the EBT card after making a trip to a participating retailer, the receipt will display your remaining balance. However, in most states, any remaining balance you have left on the card will expire on the ending date, which is usually the last day of the month.

For most WIC participants, the EBT card will be automatically replenished with food benefits each month they remain eligible. Many states have WIC apps that allow participants to see the remaining balance of food benefits they have left. 

How do I replace a lost EBT card?

If your EBT card is lost, stolen or damaged, you must replace it to continue purchasing food with WIC benefits. Your WIC benefits are issued by your local WIC clinic, so you must begin the replacement procedure with your agency. Refer to the section “WIC Contact Information by State, Territory and Tribe” for a list of contact information in each state, territory and tribe. 

When you contact your local WIC agency, they will immediately shut off your EBT card to prevent others from using it on your behalf. If you find your misplaced card after it is shut off, you cannot reactivate it or use it. You need to get a new card to continue using your benefits.

To receive a new EBT card, you will need to make an appointment with your local clinic. A WIC coordinator must verify your identity to protect against fraud, so you may need to bring all of the the following to your appointment:

• A driver’s license or state-issued form of ID
• A school ID card
• A previous WIC balance statement 
• WIC receipts 
• Your WIC approval letter 

Depending on when your card goes missing, you may not be able to save any unused benefits that were left on the EBT card. If you lose your card at the end of the month and receive a replacement card in the next month, it will not carry over the unused benefits. Each state, territory and tribal WIC agency may have slightly different rules regarding replacement cards, so the WIC program recommends contacting your local clinic for specific card issues. Find a list of WIC contact information in the section “WIC Contact Information by State, Territory and Tribe”

How long can I receive WIC benefits?

Your WIC benefits remain valid for a specific amount of time, which varies depending on your child’s age or your stage of pregnancy or breastfeeding. Infants and children are eligible from birth to age 5. 

The table below includes information about how long women can receive WIC benefits.

WIC Extensions and Waivers

State, territory and tribal WIC agencies may grant special waivers or extensions of benefits in times of crises and national emergencies. The following types of waivers may become available from the USDA during these periods:

Extended Benefits Issuance Waivers

WIC agencies can issue up to four months of WIC benefits on EBT cards at one time. This reduces the need for physical contact with WIC employees.

Physical Presence Waivers

WIC agencies that approve this waiver eliminate the need for participants to visit a clinic in person when enrolling or re-enrolling in the program.

Remote Benefit Issuance Waivers

WIC agencies that approve this waiver can issue benefits remotely so that participants do not have to pick up their benefits in person.

Food Package Substitution Waivers

WIC agencies can choose to substitute certain food package items when availability is limited. They are also allowed to alter their approved-foods lists as needed.

Minimum Stocking Requirements Waivers

These waivers help address supply challenges at retailers that accept WIC benefits. Stores may be limited in the quantity and variety of food they can stock. Stores located in areas that have minimum stocking requirements would be further burdened by this requirement. As a response, the USDA offers a waiver for these retailers so they are not met with fines for failing to meet minimum requirements.

Transferring WIC Benefits

If you plan to move or relocate to another state, you can still keep your WIC benefits during your move. The steps below outline the process of transferring your WIC benefits to another state.

1. Notify your current local WIC office. You must complete a transfer of benefits form at the WIC office by notifying them of your intent to move to another state.
2. Keep a copy of your WIC transfer form. You will need to provide this form to your new WIC office after you move. If you do not have this transfer form, you can request your old office to fax your verification of certification (VOC) to your new office. This form verifies that you were approved for WIC benefits and received them in your previous state.
3. Schedule a WIC appointment in your new area. You will meet with a WIC coordinator to determine the benefits or services you can receive in your new state.
4. Receive a new WIC EBT card. You will receive this during your appointment. 
5. Purchase WIC-approved foods at approved retailers in your new state.

If you are moving to another area within your current state, the process of transferring your benefits is simple. As long as you have valid WIC benefits and are due to receive more, you can use them at any authorized retail location across your state. 

Notify your current WIC office that you are relocating to another area and wish to visit a local WIC office. Your current WIC office will help you locate your closest office and transfer your WIC certification documents to your new office. You can find your closest clinic by using the section “WIC Contact Information by State, Territory and Tribe.”

The WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP)

The Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) provides coupons to WIC participants to use at farmers’ markets and produce stands approved by the USDA. These coupons are issued in addition to standard food benefits. The primary goal of the program is to provide locally grown fresh produce to WIC participants while raising awareness about local farms and farm stands.

There is a $10 minimum and $30 maximum coupon amount throughout the country per summer growing season. Some states, territories and tribes may have a lower limit, but per USDA rules, participants cannot get less than $10 or more than $30 total.

FMNP currently operates in 49 state agencies, Washington DC, Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and several tribal nations.

Each state, territory and tribe with an operating FMNP has several USDA-approved farmers’ markets and produce stands in the area, which are listed in their local program’s food guide. 

The table below includes the list of areas that have a Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program and the link to that location’s main FMNP webpage for more information. 

Additional Resources

In addition to WIC, the federal government provides several other resources to families and individuals who need food or financial assistance. To qualify for these programs, applicants must meet certain income requirements. Individuals who qualify for WIC may also qualify for the following assistance programs.

Food Benefits

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/state-directory 

Resources Benefits

• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
  https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ofa/programs/tanf

Healthcare

• Medicaid:
  https://www.medicaid.gov/