The maximum income limit to qualify for the WIC program is different in each state. In general, if your household’s income is at or below 185% of the federal Poverty Guidelines, you may be able to get WIC benefits. This means that a family of four with a household income of up to $47,638 may qualify. For higher household sizes, the limit increases. You can check your eligibility by using the online WIC income eligibility wizard available on many government benefit assistance sites.
WIC Income Guidelines
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is a federal program that provides food assistance to low-income pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women, and to infants and children up to age 5. WIC provides vouchers that can be used to purchase healthy foods at authorized grocery stores.
WIC Income Guidelines
To be eligible for WIC, you must meet certain income guidelines. The income guidelines are based on the federal poverty level (FPL). The FPL is a measure of poverty that is used to determine eligibility for many government programs.
The WIC income guidelines are as follows:
- For a family of one, the income limit is 185% of the FPL.
- For a family of two, the income limit is 185% of the FPL.
- For a family of three, the income limit is 185% of the FPL.
- For each additional family member, the income limit increases by 5%.
The following table shows the WIC income guidelines for families of different sizes:
| Family Size | Income Limit (185% of FPL) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $23,336 |
| 2 | $31,690 |
| 3 | $40,044 |
| 4 | $48,398 |
| 5 | $56,752 |
If your family’s income is above the WIC income guidelines, you may still be eligible for WIC if you have a medical condition that makes it difficult for you to get enough food.
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 postpartum women, and to infants and children up to age 5 who are at nutritional risk.
Income Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for WIC, applicants must meet income eligibility requirements. The income guidelines are based on the Federal Poverty Guidelines and vary depending on the applicant’s household size and income. Applicants must have a household income at or below 185% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines to be eligible for WIC.
- For a household of one, the income limit is $2,460 per month or $29,520 per year.
- For a household of two, the income limit is $3,290 per month or $39,480 per year.
- For a household of three, the income limit is $4,120 per month or $49,440 per year.
- For each additional household member, add $730 per month or $8,760 per year to the income limit.
Pregnant women, breastfeeding women, and children under age 6 who are enrolled in WIC are automatically eligible for Medicaid. Medicaid is a health insurance program for low-income individuals and families.
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit | Annual Income Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2,460 | $29,520 |
| 2 | $3,290 | $39,480 |
| 3 | $4,120 | $49,440 |
| Each additional household member | + $730 | + $8,760 |
Determining Household Income to Qualify for WIC
To qualify for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), household income must meet specific guidelines. Here’s how to determine your household income:
Income Limits for WIC Eligibility
- Eligibility is based on gross monthly household income.
- Gross income includes all sources of income, such as wages, salaries, tips, self-employment income, and government benefits.
- Income limits vary by state and household size.
Calculating Household Size
- Household size includes all members who:
- Reside in the same household.
- Receive the same food.
- Unborn children also count towards household size.
Income Verification
- When applying for WIC, provide proof of income, such as:
- Pay stubs
- Tax returns
- Bank statements
- If income is irregular, provide written proof of employment and a statement of expected income.
Income Guidelines by State
The following table provides income guidelines for WIC eligibility by state. These guidelines are based on the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) and may vary slightly from year to year. Check with your local WIC agency for the most up-to-date information for your state.
| State | Income Limit (100% FPL) | Income Limit (185% FPL) |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $2,765 | $5,103 |
| Alaska | $3,924 | $7,301 |
| Arizona | $2,893 | $5,371 |
| Arkansas | $2,618 | $4,840 |
| California | $3,231 | $5,983 |
Financial Assistance Thresholds for WIC Qualifications
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) provides nutritional support to low-income pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and children up to the age of five who are at nutritional risk.
Income Eligibility Guidelines
To be eligible for WIC, families must meet certain income guidelines. These income limits are based on the federal poverty level (FPL). The FPL is updated annually, and the WIC income guidelines are adjusted accordingly.
Income Thresholds for 2023
| Family Size | Gross Monthly Income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,043 |
| 2 | $2,727 |
| 3 | $3,411 |
| 4 | $4,095 |
| 5 | $4,779 |
| 6 | $5,463 |
| 7 | $6,147 |
| 8 | $6,831 |
For each additional family member, add $684 to the gross monthly income. To calculate your monthly gross income, add up all income from all sources, including wages, salaries, tips, commissions, self-employment income, Social Security, unemployment compensation, and TANF.
Example of Income Eligibility
For example, a family of three with a gross monthly income of $3,411 or less would be eligible for WIC in 2023. A family of five with a gross monthly income of $4,779 or less would also be eligible.
Additional Eligibility Criteria
In addition to income, other factors may affect WIC eligibility, such as:
- Nutritional risk
- Pregnancy status
- Breastfeeding status
- Age of children
- Residency
Alright folks, that’s all for now on WIC eligibility. We understand financial situations can be tough, and we’re here to help. If you have any more questions, feel free to check out our website or give us a call. And remember, we’ll be here for you next time you need some financial guidance. Keep your head up and your budget on track!