How To Use WIC Card

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 LevelEligibility
Up to 185% of poverty levelIncome-eligible
185% to 200% of poverty levelMay be eligible if at nutritional risk
Over 200% of poverty levelNot 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)
  • Ineligible Food Items

    • 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)

    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.

    SNAP-Eligible Food Groups and Examples
    Food GroupExamples
    FruitsApples, bananas, oranges, grapes, berries, melons
    VegetablesLettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, broccoli, potatoes
    Meat, Poultry, and FishBeef, chicken, pork, fish, eggs
    DairyMilk, cheese, yogurt
    Bread and CerealBread, pasta, rice, tortillas
    SnacksGranola 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

    1. Go to the Card website and click on the “Apply for a Card” button.
    2. Fill out the online application form and submit it.
    3. You will be notified by email if your application is approved.

    Phone Application

    1. Call the Card customer service number and speak to a representative.
    2. Provide the representative with your basic information.
    3. The representative will process your application and let you know if you are approved.

    Mail Application

    1. Download the Card application form from the website.
    2. Fill out the application form and mail it to the address provided.
    3. The Card will be mailed to you if your application is approved.
    MethodTime to ApplyConvenience
    Online5 minutesCan be done from anywhere with internet access
    Phone10 minutesCan be done from anywhere with phone service
    Mail15 minutesRequires 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:

    • 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

    Eligibility Requirements

    To be eligible for a WIC card, you must meet the following requirements:

    • Be a pregnant or breastfeeding woman
    • Be an infant or child under the age of 5
    • Meet income guidelines
    • Live in the United States

    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 ItemAmount
    Milk1 gallon per month
    Cheese1 block per month
    Eggs1 dozen per week
    Fruits4 servings per day
    Vegetables5 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.