Who Qualifies for WIC?
WIC has three eligibility requirements — you must meet all three:
You must be in one of these groups:
- Pregnant women
- Breastfeeding women (up to 12 months postpartum)
- Postpartum women — not breastfeeding (up to 6 months)
- Infants (under 12 months)
- Children ages 1–4
Household income must be at or below 185% FPL. If you or the child in your care receives Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF, you may already meet WIC's income requirement. You still need to meet categorical and nutritional risk requirements — no income documentation needed.
A WIC health professional must determine you are at nutritional risk. This is a broad standard — most applicants qualify. The assessment includes height, weight, a brief blood test, and diet review.
WIC Income Limits 2026 — 185% FPL
Income limits are set at 185% of the Federal Poverty Level. Limits are the same in all 48 contiguous states and DC. Alaska and Hawaii have higher limits.
| Household size | Monthly limit (185% FPL) | Annual limit | Weekly limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $2,461/mo | $29,526/yr | $568/wk |
| 2 people | $3,336/mo | $40,034/yr | $770/wk |
| 3 people | $4,212/mo | $50,542/yr | $972/wk |
| 4 people | $5,088/mo | $61,050/yr | $1,174/wk |
| 5 people | $5,963/mo | $71,558/yr | $1,376/wk |
| 6 people | $6,839/mo | $82,066/yr | $1,578/wk |
| 7 people | $7,715/mo | $92,574/yr | $1,780/wk |
| 8 people | $8,590/mo | $103,082/yr | $1,982/wk |
| Each additional person | +$876/mo | +$10,512/yr | +$202/wk |
Source: USDA FNS 2026 WIC Income Guidelines. Gross income before taxes. See full WIC eligibility guide →
What Does WIC Provide?
Specific foods based on your category — infant formula, milk, eggs, cereal, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and more. Loaded onto an eWIC card.
Free nutrition education and counseling from WIC staff. Breastfeeding support and lactation help for new mothers.
Referrals to Medicaid, SNAP, immunizations, healthcare providers, and other social services.
Many states offer WIC Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) vouchers for fresh fruits and vegetables at participating farmers markets.
How to Apply for WIC
Use the USDA locator or call 1-800-942-2673. WIC is administered through local agencies. Depending on your state or clinic, you may be able to start the process online, by phone, or in person.
Find WIC offices →Photo ID, proof of address, proof of income (or Medicaid/SNAP card), and proof of pregnancy or child's age (birth certificate).
A WIC professional will do a nutritional risk assessment — height, weight, and a brief diet review. Most offices offer same-day or next-day appointments.
If approved, you receive an eWIC card loaded with monthly food benefits. Use it immediately at authorized grocery stores and pharmacies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the income limit for WIC in 2026?
The WIC income limit is 185% of the Federal Poverty Level. For a household of 2 that's $3,336/month, for a family of 4 it's $5,088/month. If you already receive Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF you are automatically income-eligible regardless of your actual income.
Can the father of the baby apply for WIC?
WIC is specifically for women, infants, and children — not fathers. However, a father or other caregiver can bring an infant or child to a WIC appointment and manage the child's WIC benefits on their behalf.
Can I get WIC if I'm already on Medicaid?
Yes — in fact, being on Medicaid makes you automatically income-eligible for WIC. Bring your Medicaid card to your WIC appointment and you won't need to provide income documentation. You still need to meet the categorical and nutritional risk requirements.
Does WIC cover formula?
Yes. WIC provides infant formula for non-breastfeeding mothers and supplemental formula for breastfeeding mothers. WIC strongly encourages breastfeeding and provides enhanced food packages for fully breastfeeding mothers as an incentive.
How long can I receive WIC benefits?
It depends on your category. Pregnant women receive benefits through pregnancy. Postpartum non-breastfeeding women can receive WIC for up to 6 months after delivery. Breastfeeding women can receive WIC for up to 12 months. Infants can receive WIC up to their first birthday. Children can receive WIC from age 1 until their fifth birthday.
Is WIC available year-round?
Yes. Unlike some programs, WIC has no open enrollment period. You can apply any time as long as you meet the eligibility requirements. Apply as soon as possible — WIC benefits cannot be backdated.