Using a WIC card is a great way to get healthy food for your family. Here are the steps on how to use it:
1. Go to an authorized WIC store. You can find a list of authorized stores on the WIC website.
2. Show your WIC card to the cashier.
3. Select the food items that you want to buy. WIC covers a variety of healthy foods, including fruits, vegetables, milk, cheese, and eggs.
4. The cashier will scan your WIC card and deduct the cost of the food items from your balance.
5. Pay for any remaining balance not covered by WIC with cash, a debit card, or a credit card.
You can use your WIC card as many times as you need to until your balance is used up. WIC benefits are typically renewed every 6 months.
WIC Eligibility Requirements
The WIC program is a federally funded nutrition program that provides supplemental foods, nutrition education, and other services to low-income pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women, infants, and children under age 5 who are at nutritional risk.
To be eligible for WIC, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen, national, or legal resident
- Be a resident of the state in which you are applying for WIC
- Meet the income eligibility guidelines (see table below)
- Be at nutritional risk, as determined by a healthcare professional
Income Level | Eligibility |
---|---|
Up to 185% of poverty level | Income-eligible |
185% to 200% of poverty level | May be eligible if at nutritional risk |
Over 200% of poverty level | Not eligible |
Accepted Grocery Items Using EBT Card
The Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card is a government-issued card that allows low-income individuals and families to purchase SNAP-eligible food items. SNAP stands for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as food stamps.
Eligible Food Items
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
- Eggs
- Bread and cereal
- Pasta and rice
- Canned and frozen foods
- Snacks (such as granola bars, yogurt cups, and fruit cups)
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tobacco products
- Pet food
- Vitamins and supplements
- Food that is prepared or sold hot (such as rotisserie chicken or pizza)
- Non-food items (such as paper towels, detergents, or toiletries)
- Go to the Card website and click on the “Apply for a Card” button.
- Fill out the online application form and submit it.
- You will be notified by email if your application is approved.
- Call the Card customer service number and speak to a representative.
- Provide the representative with your basic information.
- The representative will process your application and let you know if you are approved.
- Download the Card application form from the website.
- Fill out the application form and mail it to the address provided.
- The Card will be mailed to you if your application is approved.
- Access to healthy foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, milk, and cheese
- Nutritional education and counseling
- Referral to other health and social services
- Support for breastfeeding mothers
- Reduced food costs
- Be a pregnant or breastfeeding woman
- Be an infant or child under the age of 5
- Meet income guidelines
- Live in the United States
Ineligible Food Items
Where to Use EBT Card
EBT cards can be used at authorized grocery stores and farmers markets. To find a list of participating stores in your area, visit the USDA’s Retailer Locator.
Food Group | Examples |
---|---|
Fruits | Apples, bananas, oranges, grapes, berries, melons |
Vegetables | Lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, broccoli, potatoes |
Meat, Poultry, and Fish | Beef, chicken, pork, fish, eggs |
Dairy | Milk, cheese, yogurt |
Bread and Cereal | Bread, pasta, rice, tortillas |
Snacks | Granola bars, yogurt cups, fruit cups |
Applying for a Card
Applying for a Card is a straightforward process that can be completed in minutes. To apply, you will need to provide some basic information, including your name, address, and Social Security number. You can apply for a Card online, by phone, or by mail.
Online Application
Phone Application
Mail Application
Method | Time to Apply | Convenience |
---|---|---|
Online | 5 minutes | Can be done from anywhere with internet access |
Phone | 10 minutes | Can be done from anywhere with phone service |
15 minutes | Requires mailing and returning the application |
Benefits of Using a WIC Card
The WIC card provides a range of benefits to eligible individuals and families, including:
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for a WIC card, you must meet the following requirements:
How to Apply for a WIC Card
To apply for a WIC card, you can visit your local WIC clinic or call your state’s WIC office. You will need to provide proof of your identity, income, and residency. You may also need to provide proof of pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Using Your WIC Card
You can use your WIC card to purchase eligible foods at authorized WIC stores. To use your card, simply swipe it at the checkout counter like a debit card. You will need to enter your PIN number to complete the transaction.
Food Item | Amount |
---|---|
Milk | 1 gallon per month |
Cheese | 1 block per month |
Eggs | 1 dozen per week |
Fruits | 4 servings per day |
Vegetables | 5 servings per day |
Alright gang, that’s all there is to it! Using your WIC card is easy as pie, and it can help you put some extra groceries on the table for your little ones. Remember, if you ever have any other questions, don’t hesitate to give your local WIC office a call or swing by for a visit. And hey, while you’re at it, be sure to say hello to the friendly staff! Thanks for stoppin’ by, and come back soon for more grocery tips and tricks.