WIC for pregnancy and young children
Who qualifies, what you get and how to find a clinic.
What is WIC?
WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) is a federal program run by USDA that provides free food, nutrition education, and referrals to other services for low-income pregnant people, new parents, infants, and children under 5.
Who qualifies?
You may qualify if you are: pregnant (any trimester); a breastfeeding parent up to 12 months after birth; a non-breastfeeding parent up to 6 months after birth; an infant under 12 months; or a child aged 1–4. Income must be at or below 185% of the federal poverty level — in 2026/27, that is about $3,534/month for a family of 3. If you already get Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF, you are automatically income-eligible for WIC.
What does WIC provide?
- Monthly food benefit loaded on a WIC EBT card: infant formula, milk, eggs, cheese, whole grains, fruits and vegetables, juice, canned fish
- Breastfeeding support and equipment (breast pumps in most states)
- Nutrition counseling and education
- Referrals to health care and social services
How to apply
WIC is run locally — find your nearest WIC clinic using the USDA WIC clinic locator at fns.usda.gov/wic/wic-contacts. Bring proof of identity, proof of address, proof of income, and proof of pregnancy or the child's birth certificate. You can apply in person or, in most states, by phone or online.