Who Is Eligible for WIC

WIC serves four categories of participants:

• Pregnant women — from the start of pregnancy through delivery
• Postpartum women — up to 6 months after delivery (or 12 months if breastfeeding)
• Infants — from birth through age 1
• Children — ages 1 through 4 (up to their 5th birthday)

Income Requirements

To qualify for WIC, household income must be at or below 185% of the federal poverty level. For a family of three, that is approximately $4,200/month in 2025.

If you already receive Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF, you automatically meet the WIC income requirement — you do not need to provide separate income documentation.

What WIC Provides

WIC provides a monthly package of specific foods chosen for their nutritional value. The exact foods vary by participant category but typically include:

• Infant formula (for non-breastfeeding infants)
• Baby food (fruits, vegetables, and meat for older infants)
• Milk, cheese, and eggs
• Whole grain bread, cereals, and tortillas
• Fruits and vegetables (cash-value voucher)
• Juice (for children and some women)
• Canned fish (for breastfeeding women)
• Legumes and peanut butter
• Tofu and soy beverages (for some participants)

Beyond Food: Other WIC Benefits

WIC provides more than just food benefits:

• Nutrition education and counseling — personalized guidance on healthy eating during pregnancy and early childhood
• Breastfeeding support — peer counselors, lactation consultants, and breast pumps
• Healthcare referrals — connections to prenatal care, immunizations, and other health services
• Immunization screening — WIC checks whether children are up to date on vaccinations

How to Apply for WIC

To apply for WIC:

1. Find your local WIC clinic at fns.usda.gov/wic or search "[your state] WIC" 2. Call or visit the clinic to schedule an appointment 3. Bring: ID, proof of address, proof of income (or proof of Medicaid/SNAP/TANF), and immunization records for children 4. A WIC staff member will determine eligibility and issue your benefits

WIC benefits are typically provided on an EBT card or vouchers that can be used at authorized grocery stores.

WIC and SNAP Together

WIC and SNAP are separate programs with different eligibility rules and benefits — you can receive both at the same time. WIC is specifically targeted at nutritional needs during pregnancy and early childhood, while SNAP provides broader grocery support for the whole household. If you qualify for WIC, also check whether your household qualifies for SNAP.