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USDA Food and Nutrition Service
Enrollment Period
Open enrollment
Established
1974
WIC provides monthly food benefits, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and healthcare referrals to low-income pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women and children under five at nutritional risk. Participants receive electronic benefits redeemable for specific healthy foods at authorized retailers. Eligibility requires income at or below 185% of the federal poverty level.
WIC reaches about half of all infants born in the United States.
People Helped
6.7 million women and children
served monthly
Annual Federal Budget
$7.3 billion
Average Benefit
~$50–$150/month in food benefits
Where Available
All 50 states, DC, 5 US territories, 34 tribal organizations
Answer each question — we'll show you exactly what applies to your situation.
Are you currently pregnant, breastfeeding, or did you recently give birth?
What is your household income?
This program requires income at or below 185% of the Federal Poverty Level — that's the government's measure of what it costs to meet basic needs. Select your household size to see your exact dollar limit.
Count everyone who lives and eats with you — yourself, spouse/partner, children, and any dependents. Count a pregnant woman as 2.
Do you have a nutritional risk determined by a health professional?
Are you a US resident?
Are you currently receiving Medicaid?