What Is WIC and Who Qualifies in 2026?
WIC serves pregnant women, new mothers (up to 6 months postpartum or 12 months if breastfeeding), infants, and children under age 5. To qualify, your household income must be at or below 185% of the federal poverty level.
WIC provides monthly food vouchers for specific approved foods, formula for non-breastfeeding infants, nutritional counseling, and referrals to other services. Benefits are administered by state WIC agencies at clinics, hospitals, and community centers.
2026 WIC Income Eligibility (185% FPL)
2026 WIC Income Eligibility (185% FPL)
Effective October 1, 2025
| Household Size | Monthly Limit (185% FPL) | Annual Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $2,248 | $26,973 |
| 2 people | $3,041 | $36,482 |
| 3 people | $3,834 | $46,005 |
| 4 people | $4,626 | $55,519 |
| 5 people | $5,419 | $65,028 |
| 6 people | $6,212 | $74,542 |
| 7 people | $7,005 | $84,055 |
| 8 people | $7,797 | $93,569 |
Participants in SNAP, Medicaid, or TANF are automatically income-eligible for WIC.
How to Apply for WIC in 2026
1
Find Your Local WIC Office
WIC is administered locally. Call 1-800-942-1007 to find the nearest WIC clinic.
Find a WIC Office Near You →
2
Gather Your Documents
Bring proof of identity, residency, income (or SNAP/Medicaid card), and your child's immunization records.
3
Attend Your Certification Appointment
A WIC staff member will verify eligibility, measure height/weight, and check blood iron levels. Takes about 1 hour.
4
Receive Your Benefits
If approved, you'll receive a WIC card loaded with approved food benefits. Benefits renew every 1–6 months.
Not Sure What You Qualify For?
Take the free Benefits Match Quiz — see WIC, SNAP, and every food program your household may qualify for.
All WIC Program Articles
See All →
Apply
How to Apply for WIC in 2026 — Step-by-Step Guide
›
Eligibility
WIC Eligibility Guide 2026 — Who Qualifies and How to Enroll
›
Foods
WIC Approved Foods List 2026 — Full List by Category
›
Immigrants
WIC for Immigrants and Mixed-Status Families
›
Compare
WIC vs SNAP — Can You Get Both at the Same Time?
›