The WIC program provides a variety of healthy food options for women, infants, and children. With your WIC card, you can purchase fruits and vegetables, whole grains, dairy products, and lean protein. These foods are essential for maintaining a healthy diet and promoting good nutrition. You can use your WIC card at authorized grocery stores and farmers’ markets. When you shop with your WIC card, you will be able to select the foods that best meet your family’s needs.
Card Benefits and Perks
The WIC card is a government-issued debit card that provides low-income families with access to healthy food. The card can be used to purchase a variety of nutritious foods, including:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains
- Milk
- Cheese
- Eggs
- Peanut butter
In addition to food, the WIC card can also be used to purchase certain non-food items, such as:
- Infant formula
- Baby food
- Breast pumps
- Diapers
- Wipes
The WIC card is a valuable resource for low-income families. It provides access to healthy food and other essential items, which can help to improve the health and well-being of both mothers and children.
| Food | Amount | ||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fruits and vegetables | $47 per month | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Whole grains | $34 per month | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Milk | $28 per month | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Cheese | $20 per month | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Eggs | $14 per month | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Peanut butter | $10 per month |
| Allowed Purchases | Prohibited Purchases |
|---|---|
| Fresh fruits and vegetables | Alcohol |
| Whole grains | Tobacco |
| Milk and milk products | Candy |
| Cheese | Soda |
| Eggs | Chips |
| Canned fish | Cookies |
| Peanut butter | Diapers |
| Infant formula | Wipes |
| Baby food | Clothing |
Redeeming MyCard Funds
Once a participant’s MyCard is activated, they can begin purchasing approved WIC foods. Here are the steps on how to redeem MyCard funds:
- Locate a WIC-authorized store.
- Present the MyCard at the checkout counter.
- Select approved WIC foods from the store’s inventory.
- The cashier will scan the participant’s MyCard.
- The amount of the purchase will be deducted from the participant’s MyCard balance.
- The participant may need to provide a signature or enter a PIN to complete the transaction.
## Online and In-Store Shopping with WIC Cards
WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) cards provide federal assistance to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and children up to 5 years old. These cards can be used to purchase specific nutritious foods at authorized vendors.
Online Shopping
Although WIC cards are primarily intended for in-store purchases, some states offer online shopping options. However, this feature is not universally available, so it’s essential to check with your local WIC program to determine eligibility. The following online retailers may accept WIC cards:
- Amazon
- Walmart
- Instacart
In-Store Shopping
To use your WIC card in stores, find an authorized vendor in your area. These stores typically display WIC signs or have a dedicated WIC counter. Authorized vendors may include:
- Grocery stores
- Farmers’ markets
- Community health centers
Eligible WIC Foods
The specific foods you can purchase with your WIC card vary by state and individual needs. However, the following table lists common WIC-eligible foods:
| Food Category | Examples |
|—|—|
| Fruits | Apples, bananas, oranges, strawberries |
| Vegetables | Carrots, broccoli, spinach, potatoes |
| Whole Grains | Whole-wheat bread, brown rice, oatmeal |
| Dairy | Milk, yogurt, cheese |
| Eggs | Chicken or duck eggs |
| Seafood | Fish, canned tuna, salmon |
| Infant Cereal | Iron-fortified cereal for infants |
| Infant Formula | Breast milk substitute for infants |Using Your WIC Card
When using your WIC card:
* Present your card at the checkout counter.
* Provide your ID or WIC EBT card number.
* The cashier will swipe your card and deduct the cost of eligible purchases.Remember that WIC cards cannot be used to purchase non-eligible items such as:
- Alcohol or tobacco products
- Candy or sugary drinks
- Prepared foods
Hey there, thanks for sticking with me through this rundown of all the goodies you can score with your WIC card! Whether you’re a seasoned WIC user or just starting out, I hope you found this article helpful. Remember, WIC is a fantastic resource that can support you and your family on your nutrition journey. Keep this info close by for when you need to hit the grocery store, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any more questions. Come visit us again soon for more tips and tricks on making the most of your WIC benefits. Until then, happy shopping!