WIC provides vouchers for free or low-cost formula to eligible families. To qualify, families must meet income and nutritional risk guidelines. The amount of formula a family receives depends on the age and number of children in the household. WIC vouchers can be used to purchase formula at authorized retailers. WIC also provides nutrition education and support to families. WIC staff can help families choose the right formula for their child and answer any questions they have about feeding their baby.
WIC Eligibility and Income Requirements
To be eligible for WIC, you must meet certain income and other criteria, including being a woman, infant, or child under the age of 5. You must also be a U.S. citizen or legal resident and live in the United States.
The WIC income guidelines are based on the federal poverty guidelines. To be eligible for WIC, your family’s income must be at or below 185% of the federal poverty guidelines. The following table shows the WIC income guidelines for 2023:
| Family Size | Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $26,500 |
| 2 | $35,625 |
| 3 | $44,750 |
| 4 | $53,875 |
| 5 | $63,000 |
| 6 | $72,125 |
| 7 | $81,250 |
| 8 | $90,375 |
If your family’s income is above the WIC income guidelines, you may still be eligible for WIC if you meet certain other criteria, such as being homeless or having a disability.
- Pregnant women
- Breastfeeding women
- Women who have recently given birth
- Infants
- Children under the age of 5
To apply for WIC, you can contact your local WIC office. You will need to provide proof of income, identity, and residency. You will also need to provide a medical history for yourself and your child.
Types of Eligible Formulas
The types of formulas covered by WIC vary depending on the specific program guidelines in each state. However, in general, WIC covers infant formulas that meet the following criteria:
- Iron-fortified
- Meet the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) nutritional standards
- Are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
WIC typically covers the following types of formulas:
- Cow’s milk-based formulas
- Soy-based formulas
- Hypoallergenic formulas (for infants with allergies or sensitivities)
- Special formulas (for infants with specific medical conditions)
| Brand | Types of Formula |
|---|---|
| Enfamil | Cow’s milk-based, soy-based, hypoallergenic, special formulas |
| Similac | Cow’s milk-based, soy-based, hypoallergenic, special formulas |
| Gerber | Cow’s milk-based, soy-based, hypoallergenic |
| Parent’s Choice | Cow’s milk-based, soy-based, hypoallergenic |
| Target | Cow’s milk-based, soy-based, hypoallergenic |
Purchase Limits and Distribution
WIC provides a set number of formula cans per month based on the child’s age and formula type. The purchase limits vary slightly by state, but generally follow these guidelines:
- 0-12 months: 48-72 cans per month
- 12-24 months: 24-36 cans per month
Distributing the allotted cans of formula is determined by the child’s specific needs:
- Full-fat formula: Issued in 12-oz cans
- Iron-fortified formula: Issued in 6-oz cans
- Special formula (e.g., soy-based): Issued according to the child’s individual requirement
| Formula Type | Can Size | Monthly Distribution |
|---|---|---|
| Full-fat | 12 oz | 4-6 cans per day |
| Iron-fortified | 6 oz | 2-3 cans per day |
| Special Formula | Varies | As prescribed by healthcare provider |
WIC participants can purchase the formula with their WIC vouchers at authorized WIC grocery stores and redeem them for the specific formula brands approved by their state WIC program.
How Does WIC Work for Formula?
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) provides federal grants to states for supplemental foods, health care referrals, and nutrition education for low-income pregnant, breastfeeding, and non-breastfeeding postpartum women, and to infants and children up to age 5 who are found to be at nutritional risk.
WIC provides benefits for infant formula to eligible infants and children under 1 year of age. The amount of formula provided depends on the age of the infant or child and the type of formula recommended by the health care provider.
Nutrition Counseling and Support
WIC also provides nutrition counseling and support to participants. This includes:
- Individual nutrition counseling to assess nutritional needs and develop a personalized nutrition plan
- Group nutrition education classes to learn about healthy eating habits
- Referrals to other health and social services
| Age | Benefits |
|---|---|
| 0-6 months | 440 fl oz/month |
| 7-12 months | 400 fl oz/month |
There you have it, folks! Now you know how WIC can help you get formula for your little one. If you’re eligible, don’t hesitate to apply. It’s a valuable program that can make a big difference for your family. Thanks for reading, and be sure to check back later for more helpful tips and information.