In the News Get Started with WIC

What is WIC?

Everyone is Welcome at WIC

WIC is here for moms, dads, parents, grandparents, foster parents, aunts, uncles, and guardians of all kinds! If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, had a baby in the past 6 months, or are caring for a child under 5—you can get healthy food, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, healthcare referrals, and more from WIC. 

WIC benefits are available for income-eligible or nutritionally at-risk pregnant and postpartum parents, breastfeeding parents and moms, and children under five (up to their fifth birthday). Dads, grandparents, foster parents, and anyone raising kids under five can apply for support from WIC.

Postpartum parents are eligible for up to 6 months after the end of their pregnancy. Breastfeeding moms are eligible to receive food benefits until their babies turn one. You can also continue to get support from WIC throughout your breastfeeding journey! 

Find a clinic near you with our newly improved clinic finder or learn more about your State or Indigenous WIC agency. 

Who Is Eligible for WIC?

WIC Supports Pregnant and Postpartum Parents 

You don’t have to wait until your baby is here to receive WIC benefits! You can get started with WIC as soon as you know you’re pregnant. Having access to nutritious foods and health care referrals through WIC can help support your health during pregnancy and help your baby grow!

Additional support for birthing parents doesn’t stop after pregnancy. Moms and birthing parents may receive WIC benefits for up to 1 year post-partum, and their children can stay enrolled until their 5th birthday! See examples of different WIC food packages and benefits based on pregnancy, postpartum, breastfeeding, and baby or toddler care from the California WIC state office (benefits may vary state by state). 

WIC Supports Breastfeeding Parents

No matter where they are in the US, breastfeeding parents have the right to respectful breastfeeding support. WIC offers breastfeeding support and supplies, and many moms can access free lactation support from peer counselors and IBCLCs (International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants). WIC is here to support you on your breastfeeding journey!

WIC Supports Foster Families 

Foster children under 5 are automatically eligible for WIC. If you are a foster parent caring for children of that age, make sure to connect with WIC!

WIC Supports Immigrant Families 

If your family moved to the United States, you can receive WIC benefits too! Applying for WIC will not affect your immigration status.

Your First WIC Appointment

What to Expect

At your first appointment, a WIC team member will walk you through the eligibility process to ensure you meet the criteria. They will also provide you with the information you need to get started with the program if you are eligible, which can include:

• Conducting a health assessment
• Providing opportunities to discuss nutrition and health concerns
• Providing referrals to other medical care and services, like breastfeeding support or doctor referrals 
• Provide information about monthly benefits that will support your dietary needs and food budget

What to Bring to Your First WIC Appointment 

When you connect with your local WIC office for an appointment, WIC staff will tell you which of the following you will need to bring. This may vary state by state but they will typically ask you to bring:

• Proof of identity for you and your child
• Proof of household income
• Proof of residency
• Immunization record for infants and children

You can find more information about how to get started by visiting our Learn About WIC webpage! 

Wherever you are on your parenting journey, WIC is here to support you and your family with nutritious food, healthcare referrals, breastfeeding support, and so much more! WIC has the resources, knowledge, and tools to help you be the parent you want to be.

Get Resources and Find a WIC Clinic Near You!

Author

Mariah Cowsert

Mariah Cowsert is a Senior Communications Associate at the National WIC Association. She has 8 years of experience in public health communications with her work ranging from direct social service and affordable housing organizations in DC and her home state of Michigan, to supporting sexual and reproductive health education initiatives at a national non-profit in Baltimore. As someone who grew up in a low-income household in rural Michigan—she knows firsthand that when families have access to quality, healthy foods regardless of their income or zip code; they can not only survive but thrive. 

References

WICstrong. (2025). Your First Appointment - WICstrong. [online] Available at: https://www.wicstrong.com/about/your-first-appointment/ [Accessed 3 Jun. 2025].

Michigan.gov. (2019). Frequently Asked Questions About WIC. [online] Available at: https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/assistance-programs/wic/faq/frequently-asked-questions-about-wic.

WIC Research, Policy and Practice Hub. (2025). Public Charge Resources. [online] Available at: https://thewichub.org/public-charge-resources/ [Accessed 3 Jun. 2025].

USDA (2024). WIC Eligibility Requirements | Food and Nutrition Service. [online] Usda.gov. Available at: https://www.fns.usda.gov/wic/applicant-participant/eligibility.