Skip to main content
Federal Program

WIC Program
Nutrition for Families

Nutrition support for pregnant women, infants, and young children

6.2M participants/month
185% FPL income limit
Age 5 max age for children
Find WIC in Your State
All immigration statuses welcome
Who Qualifies
Pregnant, infants, kids
Immigration Status
Not required
Income Limit
185% FPL

WIC is available regardless of immigration status.

Receiving WIC does NOT affect immigration applications or public charge determinations. If you or your child qualifies by age and income, you should apply without hesitation.

Find WIC in Your State

WIC is managed at the state level. Select your state for local clinic information, phone numbers, and application links.

California Texas Florida New York Pennsylvania Illinois Ohio Georgia North Carolina Michigan Virginia New Jersey Washington Indiana Tennessee Massachusetts Missouri Arizona Wisconsin Minnesota Colorado Alabama South Carolina Louisiana Kentucky Oklahoma Oregon Maryland Connecticut Iowa Mississippi Arkansas Kansas Nevada Utah Nebraska New Mexico West Virginia Idaho Hawaii New Hampshire Maine Rhode Island Montana Delaware South Dakota North Dakota Alaska Vermont Wyoming District of Columbia

What is WIC?

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) provides nutritious foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and referrals to health and social services. WIC serves pregnant and postpartum women, infants, and children up to age 5.

WIC is one of the most effective nutrition programs in the country, serving approximately 6.2 million participants each month. Benefits are provided through a WIC card (similar to EBT) accepted at authorized grocery stores.

Who Qualifies for WIC?

WIC serves specific populations with income at or below 185% of the federal poverty level:

Pregnant Women
From confirmation of pregnancy through delivery.
Postpartum Women
Up to 6 months postpartum, or 1 year if breastfeeding.
Infants
Birth through 12 months of age.
Children
Ages 1 through 4 (up to 5th birthday).
2025 WIC Gross Income Limits (185% FPL) Monthly and annual
1 person $2,248 | $26,973
2 people $3,041 | $36,482
3 people $3,833 | $45,991
4 people $4,625 | $55,500
5 people $5,418 | $65,009
6 people $6,210 | $74,518

For each additional person, add $793/month. If you receive Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF, you may automatically income-qualify.

How to Apply for WIC

1
Find your local WIC office or clinic
2
Schedule an appointment (walk-ins accepted at some locations)
3
Bring proof of identity, income, and residency
4
Complete a nutrition assessment with a WIC professional
5
Receive your WIC benefits card and food list

What Foods Does WIC Provide?

WIC provides specific nutritious foods tailored to each participant's needs. Benefits are loaded onto a WIC EBT card usable at authorized stores:

For Infants

  • Iron-fortified infant formula
  • Infant cereal
  • Baby food fruits and vegetables
  • Baby food meat

For Children and Women

  • Milk, cheese, and eggs
  • Whole wheat bread and tortillas
  • Cereal (whole grain)
  • 100% fruit juice
  • Fresh fruits and vegetables
  • Beans, peas, or peanut butter
  • Canned fish

Key Facts About WIC

  • WIC is available regardless of immigration status — you do not need to be a US citizen
  • You can receive WIC and SNAP at the same time
  • If you receive Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF, you automatically meet WIC income requirements
  • WIC benefits can be used at authorized grocery stores and some farmers' markets
  • WIC serves approximately 6 million women, infants, and children each month
  • Fathers and guardians can apply for WIC on behalf of their children

Official WIC Resources

WIC Eligibility (USDA)
Official eligibility requirements
Find Your WIC Office
State WIC contacts and clinic locators

Related Programs

SNAPSchool MealsSummer Meals

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can get WIC?
Pregnant women, women who recently had a baby (up to 6 months postpartum, or 12 months if breastfeeding), infants, and children under 5 years old. You must meet income guidelines or already receive Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF.
Do I need to be a US citizen for WIC?
No. WIC is available regardless of immigration status. You do not need a Social Security number, green card, or any immigration documents to receive WIC benefits.
What foods can I buy with WIC?
WIC covers specific nutritious foods: milk, cheese, eggs, cereal, juice, beans/peanut butter, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and infant formula. The exact food list varies slightly by state.
Can fathers apply for WIC?
Yes. Any parent, guardian, or caregiver can apply for WIC on behalf of an eligible child or infant.
Can I use WIC at farmers' markets?
Yes. Many WIC programs include Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) benefits for additional fresh produce during the growing season.
How long can I receive WIC?
Pregnant women receive WIC through pregnancy and up to 6 months postpartum (12 months if breastfeeding). Children are eligible from birth through their 5th birthday.

Find a Food Pantry Near You

Food pantries provide immediate food assistance while you apply for WIC or between WIC appointments.