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Nutrition Program

WIC program: how to apply for Women, Infants, and Children benefits

Free healthy food, formula, breastfeeding support, and nutrition counseling for pregnant women, new moms, infants, and kids under 5.

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) is a federal nutrition program run by states and tribes. It does not give cash — it provides a monthly package of specific healthy foods, plus infant formula, breastfeeding help, nutrition education, and referrals to healthcare. About half of all babies born in the U.S. receive WIC.

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Who is eligible

  • Pregnant women
  • New mothers (up to 6 months postpartum)
  • Breastfeeding mothers (up to 12 months postpartum)
  • Infants up to 12 months
  • Children up to age 5

You must live in the state where you apply and meet income guidelines (185% FPL or below). Automatic income eligibility if you're on SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid.

What WIC provides

  • eWIC card loaded monthly with approved foods (milk, eggs, cereal, fruits, vegetables, whole grain, peanut butter, beans)
  • Infant formula (or extra food for breastfeeding moms)
  • Breastfeeding counselors and pumps
  • Nutrition and health education
  • Referrals to immunizations, prenatal care, and other services

How to apply

  1. Find your state WIC agency at fns.usda.gov/wic or call 1-800-942-3678.
  2. Schedule a WIC appointment at the nearest clinic.
  3. Bring ID, proof of address, proof of income (pay stub, SNAP letter, etc.), and the child or pregnant participant.
  4. A WIC staff member does a quick height/weight check and issues your eWIC card.

Related guides

Frequently asked questions

  • Who qualifies for WIC?

    Pregnant women, new and breastfeeding mothers (up to 6–12 months postpartum), infants, and children up to age 5 who meet income guidelines (generally at or below 185% of the federal poverty level). Families already on SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid are usually income-eligible automatically.

  • What food does WIC pay for?

    WIC covers specific healthy foods: infant formula, baby food, milk, eggs, cheese, yogurt, whole-grain bread, cereal, peanut butter, beans, fruits, vegetables, and juice. Benefits are loaded onto an eWIC card you use at approved grocery stores.

  • Is WIC the same as SNAP?

    No. SNAP (food stamps) helps any low-income household buy groceries. WIC is a separate nutrition program just for pregnant/postpartum women, infants, and young children, with a fixed list of approved foods plus breastfeeding support and health referrals.

  • How do I apply for WIC?

    Call your state WIC agency or 1-800-942-3678 to find the nearest WIC clinic. You'll bring ID, proof of address, proof of income, and the child or pregnant person to a short appointment. Most families are approved the same day.