Typically, WIC benefits can only be used in the state where they were issued. However, under certain circumstances, Ohio WIC participants may be able to use their benefits in another state. If the participant is temporarily out of state for reasons such as work, school, or medical treatment, they can request a temporary change of address from their local WIC agency. If approved, the participant will receive a temporary WIC card that can be used in the new state for up to 90 days. It’s important to note that not all states accept out-of-state WIC cards, so it’s crucial to check with the WIC agency in the new state before assuming benefits can be used.
State WIC Program Eligibility
Each state has its own WIC program with specific eligibility criteria. To be eligible for WIC, you must meet the following general requirements:
- Be a US citizen or legal resident
- Be income-eligible (meet income guidelines set by the state)
- Be a pregnant or breastfeeding woman, or a child under the age of 5
- Be at nutritional risk, as determined by a health professional
Specific eligibility criteria may vary from state to state. For example, some states may have higher or lower income guidelines, or may have additional eligibility requirements for children, such as age or weight.
To apply for WIC, you can contact your local WIC agency. WIC benefits are not portable, meaning you can only use them in the state where you are enrolled. However, if you move to a new state, you can apply for WIC in that state and your benefits will start in the new state.
Income Eligibility Guidelines
The following table shows the WIC income eligibility guidelines for each state. The guidelines are based on the federal poverty guidelines, which are set by the US Department of Health and Human Services.
| State | Income Limit (100% of FPL) |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $25,760 |
| Alaska | $34,390 |
| Arizona | $27,480 |
| Arkansas | $25,100 |
| California | $32,700 |
| Colorado | $30,370 |
| Connecticut | $29,210 |
| Delaware | $27,480 |
| Florida | $26,460 |
| Georgia | $26,460 |
| Hawaii | $32,700 |
| Idaho | $27,060 |
| Illinois | $28,000 |
| Indiana | $27,480 |
| Iowa | $27,480 |
| Kansas | $27,480 |
| Kentucky | $25,760 |
| Louisiana | $25,100 |
| Maine | $27,480 |
| Maryland | $29,210 |
| Massachusetts | $31,600 |
| Michigan | $27,480 |
| Minnesota | $29,210 |
| Mississippi | $23,850 |
| Missouri | $27,060 |
| Montana | $27,480 |
| Nebraska | $27,480 |
| Nevada | $31,600 |
| New Hampshire | $29,210 |
| New Jersey | $31,600 |
| New Mexico | $27,480 |
| New York | $31,600 |
| North Carolina | $26,460 |
| North Dakota | $27,480 |
| Ohio | $27,480 |
| Oklahoma | $25,760 |
| Oregon | $32,700 |
| Pennsylvania | $29,210 |
| Rhode Island | $29,210 |
| South Carolina | $26,460 |
| South Dakota | $27,480 |
| Tennessee | $25,100 |
| Texas | $26,460 |
| Utah | $29,210 |
| Vermont | $29,210 |
| Virginia | $29,210 |
| Washington | $32,700 |
| West Virginia | $25,760 |
| Wisconsin | $29,210 |
| Wyoming | $27,480 |
Using Ohio WIC in Neighboring States
Ohio WIC participants can use their benefits in certain neighboring states. The following table outlines the states where Ohio WIC is accepted and the restrictions that may apply:
| State | Restrictions |
|---|---|
| Indiana |
|
| Kentucky |
|
| Michigan |
|
| Pennsylvania |
|
| West Virginia |
|
Important Notes
- Participants must contact their local Ohio WIC clinic before using their benefits in another state.
- Benefits may only be used for WIC-approved foods and items.
- Participants may not use their benefits to purchase alcohol, tobacco, or other non-food items.
Temporary WIC Transfers
If you must travel out-of-state for less than 30 days, you may be eligible for temporary WIC benefits in another state.
- Contact your local WIC office before you travel.
- Provide them with your travel dates and destination.
- They will provide you with a temporary WIC voucher that you can use in the other state.
The following table summarizes the requirements for temporary WIC transfers:
| State | Length of Stay | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Less than 30 days | Contact your local WIC office for a temporary voucher. |
| Alaska | Less than 90 days | Contact your local WIC office for a temporary voucher. |
| Arizona | Less than 30 days | Contact your local WIC office for a temporary voucher. |
| Arkansas | Less than 30 days | Contact your local WIC office for a temporary voucher. |
| California | Less than 30 days | Contact your local WIC office for a temporary voucher. |
Using Ohio WIC in Another State
The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program is a federally funded program that provides supplemental food, nutrition education, and breastfeeding support to eligible women and children. WIC benefits can be used to purchase healthy foods at authorized grocery stores.
If you are an Ohio WIC participant and you need to use your benefits in another state, you will need to contact your local WIC agency to request a letter of authorization. The letter of authorization will allow you to use your Ohio WIC benefits in any other state that participates in the WIC program.
Documentation for Out-of-State WIC Use
- Letter of authorization from your local WIC agency
- Valid Ohio WIC ID card
- Proof of identity (such as a driver’s license or state ID card)
You may also need to provide proof of income and residency in the new state.
| State | WIC Agency Contact Information |
|---|---|
| Alabama | (800) 880-3204 |
| Alaska | (800) 730-4344 |
| Arizona | (800) 322-4755 |
| Arkansas | (800) 872-4775 |
| California | (800) 522-4711 |
Well, that about wraps it up for the ins and outs of using your Ohio WIC benefits in other states. Remember, it’s all about providing the best nutrition for your little ones, no matter where you are. Thanks for hanging in there with me through all the details. If you’ve got any more questions, feel free to drop by again. I’ll be here, ready to help sort out any WIC-related puzzle you might have. Stay healthy, and thanks for reading!