Yes, Food City accepts WIC at many of its locations, though participation can vary by state and individual store.

This guide explains how to verify acceptance at your local store, outlines your shopping options, and details the WIC-eligible items you can buy.

Does Food City Accept WIC?

Food City accepts WIC at many of its stores. However, because the WIC program is administered at the state level, authorization can vary by location. Not all Food City stores are approved WIC vendors, so it is important to confirm a store’s participation before you shop.

Most states now issue benefits on eWIC cards, which simplify the checkout process. At Food City, you use the card just like a debit card. Simply swipe your card at the terminal and enter your PIN. The card automatically deducts the cost of eligible items from your WIC balance.

Does Food City accept WIC for online orders?

Food City’s online ordering and curbside pickup service, known as Food City To You, does not currently accept WIC payments. To use your benefits, you must shop inside the store with your physical eWIC card. All WIC transactions must be completed at a register with a cashier or at an approved self-checkout station.

Why Some Food City Locations Accept WIC and Others Don't

Several factors determine whether a specific Food City store can accept WIC. Authorization depends on state regulations, store-level compliance, and even the physical size of the store itself.

State-by-State Differences

Although WIC is federally funded, it is administered at the state level. Each state, including Virginia, Tennessee, and Georgia, manages its own list of authorized vendors. This is why a Food City in one state may be approved while another location just across the border is not.

Store Application and Requirements

To accept WIC benefits, a store must apply to its state agency and meet specific criteria. These rules often include stocking minimum quantities of approved foods, maintaining eWIC-compatible systems, and training staff properly. Some locations may not pursue authorization or may not meet these standards.

Impact of Store Size

The store's format can also be a factor. Smaller Food City locations, like an Express or a Neighborhood Market, may lack the shelf space needed to carry the full range of required WIC inventory. As a result, these smaller stores might not qualify for the program and cannot become authorized vendors.

Changes in Authorization

A store’s WIC authorization is not always permanent. A location can gain or lose its status based on periodic compliance reviews or updates to state policy. Since a store's participation can change, it is wise to confirm its current WIC status before you go shopping.