Plain-English overview
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, known as WIC, provides nutrition support, healthy foods, breastfeeding support, and referrals through state and local agencies. A local WIC agency confirms eligibility and completes enrollment.
General eligibility considerations
These are common factors, not a personal eligibility decision:
- WIC generally serves pregnant, recently pregnant, or breastfeeding people, infants, and children under age five.
- Applicants must meet residency, income, and nutrition-risk requirements used by the local agency.
- Participation in certain other assistance programs may help establish income eligibility, depending on program and state rules.
Documents that may be requested
Requirements depend on the responsible agency. Common preparation items include:
- Identity for each person applying
- Proof of current address
- Proof of household income or qualifying program participation
- Birth records or age information for children when requested
- Medical or nutrition information requested by the clinic
How to get started
- Use the USDA WIC locator to find the agency serving your area.
- Ask whether you can begin the application online or by phone.
- Schedule the certification appointment and confirm whether it is in person or remote.
- Bring or upload the documents listed by the agency.
- Ask how benefits are issued, which stores participate, and when recertification is due.
State and local variation
Approved food packages, appointment procedures, benefit cards, clinic availability, and local documentation practices vary by state and tribal agency.
Limitations and cautions
An online screening tool can suggest possible eligibility, but only the WIC agency can enroll a participant.
Official starting resource
Continue with the responsible agency for current rules, applications, deadlines, and contact information.
Visit USDA Food and Nutrition Service ↗