Texas WIC: Eligibility, Benefits & How to Apply (2026)
Find out if you qualify for Texas WIC. See income limits, benefits, and how to apply for and manage your benefits.
Edward Cheng
Updated on:
Jul 10, 2025
Published on:
Jul 10, 2025
Texas WIC: Eligibility, Benefits & How to Apply (2026)
Find out if you qualify for Texas WIC. See income limits, benefits, and how to apply for and manage your benefits.
Edward Cheng
Updated on:
Jul 10, 2025
Published on:
Jul 10, 2025
Texas WIC: Eligibility, Benefits & How to Apply (2026)
Find out if you qualify for Texas WIC. See income limits, benefits, and how to apply for and manage your benefits.
Edward Cheng
Updated on:
Jul 10, 2025
Published on:
Jul 10, 2025
Texas WIC: Eligibility, Benefits & How to Apply (2026)
Find out if you qualify for Texas WIC. See income limits, benefits, and how to apply for and manage your benefits.
Edward Cheng
Updated on:
Jul 10, 2025
Published on:
Jul 10, 2025
Texas WIC: Eligibility, Benefits & How to Apply (2026)
Find out if you qualify for Texas WIC. See income limits, benefits, and how to apply for and manage your benefits.
Edward Cheng
Updated on:
Jul 10, 2025
Published on:
Jul 10, 2025
SHARE
ON THIS PAGE
The Texas WIC Program offers nutritional support to families across the state, helping them thrive. This program is designed for expecting mothers, nursing parents, and anyone raising young children. Understanding how TX's WIC services work is the first step to accessing valuable resources for your family.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know. We will cover WIC eligibility, the application process, and using your benefits at the store. We’ll also explain how WIC works alongside other programs like SNAP.
What is the Texas WIC Program?
WIC is a special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children. In Texas, the Health and Human Services Commission runs the program, providing services to families statewide. It helps families buy healthy foods and get nutrition education to support healthy growth and development.
Participation in WIC is linked to significant health improvements. This includes healthier babies with better birth weights and improved diets for children. These early advantages support better long-term health and development for the whole family.
Benefits Available Through Texas WIC
Supplemental food assistance: Participants receive monthly benefits on an eWIC card to buy specific healthy foods like milk, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains at approved grocery stores.
Personalized nutrition services: Families get one-on-one counseling and group classes with nutrition experts to learn about healthy eating habits tailored to their needs.
Health assessments and screenings: WIC provides regular health checks, including height and weight measurements and iron-level screenings, to monitor your child’s growth and well-being.
Breastfeeding support: Expecting and new mothers receive encouragement, information, and support from lactation consultants and peer counselors to help them meet their breastfeeding goals.
Community connections and referrals: WIC helps connect families to other important services, such as immunizations, medical care, and other social service programs in their community.
WIC Eligibility for Texas WIC
WIC eligibility is designed to support a wide range of families. Many people are surprised to find they qualify for the program, as the requirements are broader than often assumed. It serves families from various backgrounds and living situations across TX.
Who Qualifies for Texas WIC
Pregnant individuals
Postpartum individuals, for up to six months after delivery
Breastfeeding parents, for up to one year after delivery
Infants and children under five years old
You do not have to be a mother to apply for a child. Fathers, grandparents, foster parents, and legal guardians can all apply for WIC benefits on behalf of an eligible child in their care.
Texas WIC Income Requirements
To qualify, your household's gross income must be at or below 185% of the U.S. Poverty Income Guidelines. If you or a family member already participates in Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF, you automatically meet the income requirement.
2024-2025 WIC Income Guidelines | ||
Household Size | Monthly Income | Annual Income |
|---|---|---|
1 | $2,322 | $27,861 |
2 | $3,152 | $37,814 |
3 | $3,981 | $47,767 |
4 | $4,810 | $57,720 |
5 | $5,640 | $67,673 |
6 | $6,469 | $77,626 |
7 | $7,299 | $87,579 |
8 | $8,128 | $97,532 |
When counting your household size, be sure to include unborn children. For example, a pregnant person with no other children would count as a household of two.
Nutritional Risk Assessment
A WIC staff member will conduct a brief health and diet screening. This involves checking basic measurements like height and weight and may include a simple blood test to check for anemia.
You will also discuss your family’s eating habits and medical history. This helps the WIC team understand your nutritional needs and provide the right support for your family.
Most applicants who meet the income guidelines are also found to have a nutritional need. The assessment ensures the program serves those who will benefit most from its resources.
How to Apply for WIC in Texas
Applying for WIC in Texas is a straightforward process. The first step is to contact your local WIC clinic to schedule an appointment. Many clinics offer same-day appointments and can certify you immediately if you bring all the required documents with you.
Required Documentation for Your Texas WIC Appointment
Gathering your documents ahead of time will make your appointment go smoothly. You will need to provide proof for three categories. It is a good idea to ask your clinic if they accept digital copies or if you need to bring paper documents.
Proof of Identity: You need ID for yourself and anyone else you are applying for. This can include a driver's license, birth certificate, military ID, passport, or hospital records.
Proof of Texas Residency: You must show you live in TX. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, or any mail with your name and address. A driver's license with your current address also works.
Income Documentation: If you are not automatically eligible through Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF, you must provide proof of income. This includes recent pay stubs, a letter from your employer, or self-employment records.
The Texas WIC Application Process
Your WIC appointment will involve several steps, all completed in one visit. A staff member will guide you through the process and answer any questions you have.
You will fill out the application form with help from WIC staff.
A staff member will conduct a simple nutritional assessment, which includes checking height, weight, and iron levels.
You will participate in a brief nutrition education session, which may be a short video, a class, or a one-on-one chat.
Based on your needs, you will be assigned a food package.
You will receive your eWIC card and learn how to use it to purchase approved foods.
Maintaining Your Texas WIC Benefits
Once you are enrolled, you will need to attend regular appointments, typically every two to three months. These appointments include follow-up nutrition education, which can often be completed online or in person. You will also need to complete a recertification periodically to confirm your eligibility.
Pregnant individuals: Certified for the duration of the pregnancy.
Breastfeeding parents: Certified for up to one year postpartum.
Non-breastfeeding postpartum: Certified for up to six months postpartum.
Infants and children: Certified for six months to a year at a time, until their fifth birthday.
Reporting Changes to Texas WIC
It is important to keep your information up to date. You must contact your WIC office if any of the following circumstances change:
Your address or phone number
You become pregnant
A new baby or child joins your household
Your breastfeeding status changes
Your household income changes significantly
You start or stop receiving SNAP, Medicaid, or TANF
Download Benny app to save on groceries
Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score
Download the app
Texas WIC Customer Service
The Texas WIC team is ready to assist you. Whether you have questions about your benefits or need help with the application process, support is available through several channels.
Texas WIC State Office
Phone: 1-800-942-3678
Mailing Address: Texas WIC, P.O. Box 149347, Mail Code 1946, Austin, TX 78714-9347
Website: TexasWIC.org
Find Your Local County WIC Office
For direct assistance, contact your county WIC office. Clinics are located in all 254 Texas counties. Local staff can help you apply for benefits, answer specific questions, and offer guidance.
Texas WIC App
The MyTexasWIC app provides convenient access to your benefits. You can use it to:
Check your benefit balance in real-time
Scan items at the store to see if they are WIC-approved
Locate WIC-authorized grocery stores near you
View reminders for upcoming appointments
Access your shopping list
For questions about civil rights or equal access
If you have questions regarding civil rights or believe you have been treated unfairly, please call the Civil Rights Office at 1-888-997-3337.
Office Hours
Most WIC clinics in TX operate during standard business hours, typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays. However, hours can vary by location, so it is best to call your local office to confirm.
Friendly and knowledgeable staff are available to support you and your family throughout your WIC journey. Do not hesitate to reach out for any assistance you may need.
Transferring Texas WIC Benefits When Moving
If you are moving to a new county within Texas, contact the WIC office in your new location. Bring your current eWIC card and any documentation from your previous clinic to help streamline the transfer process and continue receiving your benefits without interruption.
For an out-of-state move, follow these steps to transfer your benefits:
Request a Verification of Certification (VOC) form from your Texas WIC office.
Try to use your remaining benefits in TX before you leave.
Contact the WIC program in your new state immediately upon arrival.
Schedule an appointment and bring your VOC form to it.
Each state has its own eWIC card system. Your Texas eWIC card is only accepted at authorized retailers within TX and will not work in other states. You will receive a new card from your new state's WIC program once you are enrolled.
Shopping with Texas WIC Benefits
Texas WIC provides food packages tailored to your life stage and nutritional needs. Your benefits are loaded onto an eWIC card, which works like a debit card at authorized stores. This guide will help you make the most of your shopping trips.
Texas WIC Approved Foods
Your food package includes a variety of healthy items from the following categories:
Fruits and vegetables: A monthly cash value benefit (CVB) is provided for fresh, frozen, or canned options. Pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding participants receive a higher amount than children.
Dairy products: This includes different types of milk, cheese, and yogurt.
Protein sources: You can purchase eggs, peanut butter, and canned or dried beans and peas. Canned fish is available for fully breastfeeding participants.
Whole grains: Choose from 100% whole-wheat bread, brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, corn or whole-wheat tortillas, and approved cereals.
Other items: Your benefits may also cover 100% fruit or vegetable juice, infant formula, infant cereal, and baby foods.
Recent updates to the food packages offer more whole grains and items with reduced sugar. The program also includes more culturally appropriate foods, flexible infant formula amounts, and different package sizes to better meet your family’s needs.
Special Dietary Needs in Texas
Texas WIC accommodates various dietary requirements. If you or your child has specific needs, alternatives are available. These can include lactose-free milk, soy-based options for allergies, or substitutions that align with cultural food preferences. Medically necessary formulas can also be provided with a doctor's prescription.
Always discuss any dietary concerns with your WIC nutritionist. They can adjust your food package to ensure you receive the right nutrition for your health needs.
Using Your Texas eWIC Card at Stores
Before Shopping
Download the MyTexasWIC app to manage your benefits on the go.
Use the app to check your current benefit balance and view a list of approved brands and package sizes.
While Shopping
Look for shelf tags that identify WIC-approved items in the aisles.
Use the app’s scanner to confirm if an item is eligible.
Try to purchase your fresh fruits and vegetables early in the month before the benefit value expires.
At Checkout
Use your eWIC card before any other form of payment, like SNAP or a debit card.
The system will automatically deduct all approved WIC items from your purchase.
Keep your receipt to see your remaining benefit balance.
Many major grocery chains and smaller independent stores across TX are authorized to accept WIC. You can find a complete list of approved stores in your area using the MyTexasWIC app.
Infant Formula Coverage in Texas
Texas WIC provides infant formula to support your baby’s nutritional needs. The program works with families to determine the right amount of formula based on your unique situation, whether you are supplementing breastfeeding or exclusively formula-feeding.
Formula Amount Determination
Baby's age
Feeding method (exclusively formula or combination with breastfeeding)
Formula type (standard, soy-based, specialized)
Formula form (powder or liquid concentrate)
Texas WIC contracts with specific formula manufacturers to provide standard milk- and soy-based formulas. Participants receive these contracted brands. If your baby requires a special medical formula, it can be provided with documentation from a healthcare provider.
Nutrition Education in Texas WIC
Texas WIC requires participants to complete nutrition education. To accommodate busy schedules, a variety of learning formats are offered. This flexibility helps you get the information you need in a way that works for you and your family.
You can choose from several education formats:
In-person sessions, either one-on-one or in a group setting
Online learning modules that you can complete at your own pace
Virtual appointments by video or phone with a WIC nutritionist
Educational materials like printed resources, recipe cards, and meal planning guides
These sessions cover a wide range of topics, including:
Healthy eating during pregnancy
Infant feeding and how to introduce solid foods
Meal planning and shopping on a budget
Proper food safety and preparation techniques
Managing nutrition-related health conditions
Child development and common feeding behaviors
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance
Download the app
Additional Texas WIC Benefits and Discounts
Museums for All
WIC participants can enjoy free or significantly reduced admission to hundreds of museums nationwide. This program includes many participating locations throughout Texas, making cultural experiences more accessible for families.
Utility Assistance
Some utility companies may offer discounts on your monthly bills if you are a WIC participant. It is best to contact your local electricity, gas, and water providers directly to ask about available assistance programs.
Farmers Market Nutrition Program
This seasonal program provides extra funds to buy fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables. You can use these benefits at participating farmers markets. Availability can vary across TX depending on location and current funding.
Combining Texas WIC with Other Assistance Programs
You can receive WIC benefits while enrolled in other government assistance programs. In many cases, participating in certain programs automatically means you meet the income requirements for WIC, simplifying the application process for your family.
SNAP (Food Stamps): WIC supplements the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program by providing specific healthy foods. You can use both benefits in one transaction—just use your WIC card first, then your SNAP EBT card. Enrollment in SNAP automatically makes you income-eligible for WIC in Texas.
Medicaid: If you or your children are enrolled in Medicaid, you automatically meet the income requirements for WIC. This helps families receiving health coverage easily access nutritional support without providing separate income proof.
TANF: Receiving benefits from Temporary Assistance for Needy Families also automatically qualifies you for WIC based on income. This program provides financial assistance, and its recipients are presumed eligible for the nutritional benefits WIC offers.
Child Care Assistance: Getting help with child care costs through state subsidy programs does not impact your WIC eligibility. These are separate benefits, and you can receive assistance from both programs at the same time without any reduction in support.
These programs are designed to work together, each addressing different needs for your family. Enrolling in one does not reduce your benefits from another. Instead, they combine to provide a stronger support system for health, nutrition, and financial stability.
Maximize Your Grocery Savings with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps save on other groceries at stores like Walmart, Walgreens, Aldi, Whole Foods, Kroger, Target, Trader Joe's as well as services such as Instacart and Lyft.
Get coupons for your favorite brands: Access exclusive digital coupons for thousands of products.
Earn a 1-3% cashback on SNAP purchases and track your EBT balance: If you are already a SNAP recipient, use Benny to monitor your SNAP EBT balance and get a 1-3% cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Get 1% cashback with Benny Visa card and build your credit score: Every purchase helps improve financial future.
Download Benny and start saving on your next shopping trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Texas WIC Program offers nutritional support to families across the state, helping them thrive. This program is designed for expecting mothers, nursing parents, and anyone raising young children. Understanding how TX's WIC services work is the first step to accessing valuable resources for your family.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know. We will cover WIC eligibility, the application process, and using your benefits at the store. We’ll also explain how WIC works alongside other programs like SNAP.
What is the Texas WIC Program?
WIC is a special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children. In Texas, the Health and Human Services Commission runs the program, providing services to families statewide. It helps families buy healthy foods and get nutrition education to support healthy growth and development.
Participation in WIC is linked to significant health improvements. This includes healthier babies with better birth weights and improved diets for children. These early advantages support better long-term health and development for the whole family.
Benefits Available Through Texas WIC
Supplemental food assistance: Participants receive monthly benefits on an eWIC card to buy specific healthy foods like milk, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains at approved grocery stores.
Personalized nutrition services: Families get one-on-one counseling and group classes with nutrition experts to learn about healthy eating habits tailored to their needs.
Health assessments and screenings: WIC provides regular health checks, including height and weight measurements and iron-level screenings, to monitor your child’s growth and well-being.
Breastfeeding support: Expecting and new mothers receive encouragement, information, and support from lactation consultants and peer counselors to help them meet their breastfeeding goals.
Community connections and referrals: WIC helps connect families to other important services, such as immunizations, medical care, and other social service programs in their community.
WIC Eligibility for Texas WIC
WIC eligibility is designed to support a wide range of families. Many people are surprised to find they qualify for the program, as the requirements are broader than often assumed. It serves families from various backgrounds and living situations across TX.
Who Qualifies for Texas WIC
Pregnant individuals
Postpartum individuals, for up to six months after delivery
Breastfeeding parents, for up to one year after delivery
Infants and children under five years old
You do not have to be a mother to apply for a child. Fathers, grandparents, foster parents, and legal guardians can all apply for WIC benefits on behalf of an eligible child in their care.
Texas WIC Income Requirements
To qualify, your household's gross income must be at or below 185% of the U.S. Poverty Income Guidelines. If you or a family member already participates in Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF, you automatically meet the income requirement.
2024-2025 WIC Income Guidelines | ||
Household Size | Monthly Income | Annual Income |
|---|---|---|
1 | $2,322 | $27,861 |
2 | $3,152 | $37,814 |
3 | $3,981 | $47,767 |
4 | $4,810 | $57,720 |
5 | $5,640 | $67,673 |
6 | $6,469 | $77,626 |
7 | $7,299 | $87,579 |
8 | $8,128 | $97,532 |
When counting your household size, be sure to include unborn children. For example, a pregnant person with no other children would count as a household of two.
Nutritional Risk Assessment
A WIC staff member will conduct a brief health and diet screening. This involves checking basic measurements like height and weight and may include a simple blood test to check for anemia.
You will also discuss your family’s eating habits and medical history. This helps the WIC team understand your nutritional needs and provide the right support for your family.
Most applicants who meet the income guidelines are also found to have a nutritional need. The assessment ensures the program serves those who will benefit most from its resources.
How to Apply for WIC in Texas
Applying for WIC in Texas is a straightforward process. The first step is to contact your local WIC clinic to schedule an appointment. Many clinics offer same-day appointments and can certify you immediately if you bring all the required documents with you.
Required Documentation for Your Texas WIC Appointment
Gathering your documents ahead of time will make your appointment go smoothly. You will need to provide proof for three categories. It is a good idea to ask your clinic if they accept digital copies or if you need to bring paper documents.
Proof of Identity: You need ID for yourself and anyone else you are applying for. This can include a driver's license, birth certificate, military ID, passport, or hospital records.
Proof of Texas Residency: You must show you live in TX. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, or any mail with your name and address. A driver's license with your current address also works.
Income Documentation: If you are not automatically eligible through Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF, you must provide proof of income. This includes recent pay stubs, a letter from your employer, or self-employment records.
The Texas WIC Application Process
Your WIC appointment will involve several steps, all completed in one visit. A staff member will guide you through the process and answer any questions you have.
You will fill out the application form with help from WIC staff.
A staff member will conduct a simple nutritional assessment, which includes checking height, weight, and iron levels.
You will participate in a brief nutrition education session, which may be a short video, a class, or a one-on-one chat.
Based on your needs, you will be assigned a food package.
You will receive your eWIC card and learn how to use it to purchase approved foods.
Maintaining Your Texas WIC Benefits
Once you are enrolled, you will need to attend regular appointments, typically every two to three months. These appointments include follow-up nutrition education, which can often be completed online or in person. You will also need to complete a recertification periodically to confirm your eligibility.
Pregnant individuals: Certified for the duration of the pregnancy.
Breastfeeding parents: Certified for up to one year postpartum.
Non-breastfeeding postpartum: Certified for up to six months postpartum.
Infants and children: Certified for six months to a year at a time, until their fifth birthday.
Reporting Changes to Texas WIC
It is important to keep your information up to date. You must contact your WIC office if any of the following circumstances change:
Your address or phone number
You become pregnant
A new baby or child joins your household
Your breastfeeding status changes
Your household income changes significantly
You start or stop receiving SNAP, Medicaid, or TANF
Download Benny app to save on groceries
Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score
Download the app
Texas WIC Customer Service
The Texas WIC team is ready to assist you. Whether you have questions about your benefits or need help with the application process, support is available through several channels.
Texas WIC State Office
Phone: 1-800-942-3678
Mailing Address: Texas WIC, P.O. Box 149347, Mail Code 1946, Austin, TX 78714-9347
Website: TexasWIC.org
Find Your Local County WIC Office
For direct assistance, contact your county WIC office. Clinics are located in all 254 Texas counties. Local staff can help you apply for benefits, answer specific questions, and offer guidance.
Texas WIC App
The MyTexasWIC app provides convenient access to your benefits. You can use it to:
Check your benefit balance in real-time
Scan items at the store to see if they are WIC-approved
Locate WIC-authorized grocery stores near you
View reminders for upcoming appointments
Access your shopping list
For questions about civil rights or equal access
If you have questions regarding civil rights or believe you have been treated unfairly, please call the Civil Rights Office at 1-888-997-3337.
Office Hours
Most WIC clinics in TX operate during standard business hours, typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays. However, hours can vary by location, so it is best to call your local office to confirm.
Friendly and knowledgeable staff are available to support you and your family throughout your WIC journey. Do not hesitate to reach out for any assistance you may need.
Transferring Texas WIC Benefits When Moving
If you are moving to a new county within Texas, contact the WIC office in your new location. Bring your current eWIC card and any documentation from your previous clinic to help streamline the transfer process and continue receiving your benefits without interruption.
For an out-of-state move, follow these steps to transfer your benefits:
Request a Verification of Certification (VOC) form from your Texas WIC office.
Try to use your remaining benefits in TX before you leave.
Contact the WIC program in your new state immediately upon arrival.
Schedule an appointment and bring your VOC form to it.
Each state has its own eWIC card system. Your Texas eWIC card is only accepted at authorized retailers within TX and will not work in other states. You will receive a new card from your new state's WIC program once you are enrolled.
Shopping with Texas WIC Benefits
Texas WIC provides food packages tailored to your life stage and nutritional needs. Your benefits are loaded onto an eWIC card, which works like a debit card at authorized stores. This guide will help you make the most of your shopping trips.
Texas WIC Approved Foods
Your food package includes a variety of healthy items from the following categories:
Fruits and vegetables: A monthly cash value benefit (CVB) is provided for fresh, frozen, or canned options. Pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding participants receive a higher amount than children.
Dairy products: This includes different types of milk, cheese, and yogurt.
Protein sources: You can purchase eggs, peanut butter, and canned or dried beans and peas. Canned fish is available for fully breastfeeding participants.
Whole grains: Choose from 100% whole-wheat bread, brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, corn or whole-wheat tortillas, and approved cereals.
Other items: Your benefits may also cover 100% fruit or vegetable juice, infant formula, infant cereal, and baby foods.
Recent updates to the food packages offer more whole grains and items with reduced sugar. The program also includes more culturally appropriate foods, flexible infant formula amounts, and different package sizes to better meet your family’s needs.
Special Dietary Needs in Texas
Texas WIC accommodates various dietary requirements. If you or your child has specific needs, alternatives are available. These can include lactose-free milk, soy-based options for allergies, or substitutions that align with cultural food preferences. Medically necessary formulas can also be provided with a doctor's prescription.
Always discuss any dietary concerns with your WIC nutritionist. They can adjust your food package to ensure you receive the right nutrition for your health needs.
Using Your Texas eWIC Card at Stores
Before Shopping
Download the MyTexasWIC app to manage your benefits on the go.
Use the app to check your current benefit balance and view a list of approved brands and package sizes.
While Shopping
Look for shelf tags that identify WIC-approved items in the aisles.
Use the app’s scanner to confirm if an item is eligible.
Try to purchase your fresh fruits and vegetables early in the month before the benefit value expires.
At Checkout
Use your eWIC card before any other form of payment, like SNAP or a debit card.
The system will automatically deduct all approved WIC items from your purchase.
Keep your receipt to see your remaining benefit balance.
Many major grocery chains and smaller independent stores across TX are authorized to accept WIC. You can find a complete list of approved stores in your area using the MyTexasWIC app.
Infant Formula Coverage in Texas
Texas WIC provides infant formula to support your baby’s nutritional needs. The program works with families to determine the right amount of formula based on your unique situation, whether you are supplementing breastfeeding or exclusively formula-feeding.
Formula Amount Determination
Baby's age
Feeding method (exclusively formula or combination with breastfeeding)
Formula type (standard, soy-based, specialized)
Formula form (powder or liquid concentrate)
Texas WIC contracts with specific formula manufacturers to provide standard milk- and soy-based formulas. Participants receive these contracted brands. If your baby requires a special medical formula, it can be provided with documentation from a healthcare provider.
Nutrition Education in Texas WIC
Texas WIC requires participants to complete nutrition education. To accommodate busy schedules, a variety of learning formats are offered. This flexibility helps you get the information you need in a way that works for you and your family.
You can choose from several education formats:
In-person sessions, either one-on-one or in a group setting
Online learning modules that you can complete at your own pace
Virtual appointments by video or phone with a WIC nutritionist
Educational materials like printed resources, recipe cards, and meal planning guides
These sessions cover a wide range of topics, including:
Healthy eating during pregnancy
Infant feeding and how to introduce solid foods
Meal planning and shopping on a budget
Proper food safety and preparation techniques
Managing nutrition-related health conditions
Child development and common feeding behaviors
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance
Download the app
Additional Texas WIC Benefits and Discounts
Museums for All
WIC participants can enjoy free or significantly reduced admission to hundreds of museums nationwide. This program includes many participating locations throughout Texas, making cultural experiences more accessible for families.
Utility Assistance
Some utility companies may offer discounts on your monthly bills if you are a WIC participant. It is best to contact your local electricity, gas, and water providers directly to ask about available assistance programs.
Farmers Market Nutrition Program
This seasonal program provides extra funds to buy fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables. You can use these benefits at participating farmers markets. Availability can vary across TX depending on location and current funding.
Combining Texas WIC with Other Assistance Programs
You can receive WIC benefits while enrolled in other government assistance programs. In many cases, participating in certain programs automatically means you meet the income requirements for WIC, simplifying the application process for your family.
SNAP (Food Stamps): WIC supplements the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program by providing specific healthy foods. You can use both benefits in one transaction—just use your WIC card first, then your SNAP EBT card. Enrollment in SNAP automatically makes you income-eligible for WIC in Texas.
Medicaid: If you or your children are enrolled in Medicaid, you automatically meet the income requirements for WIC. This helps families receiving health coverage easily access nutritional support without providing separate income proof.
TANF: Receiving benefits from Temporary Assistance for Needy Families also automatically qualifies you for WIC based on income. This program provides financial assistance, and its recipients are presumed eligible for the nutritional benefits WIC offers.
Child Care Assistance: Getting help with child care costs through state subsidy programs does not impact your WIC eligibility. These are separate benefits, and you can receive assistance from both programs at the same time without any reduction in support.
These programs are designed to work together, each addressing different needs for your family. Enrolling in one does not reduce your benefits from another. Instead, they combine to provide a stronger support system for health, nutrition, and financial stability.
Maximize Your Grocery Savings with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps save on other groceries at stores like Walmart, Walgreens, Aldi, Whole Foods, Kroger, Target, Trader Joe's as well as services such as Instacart and Lyft.
Get coupons for your favorite brands: Access exclusive digital coupons for thousands of products.
Earn a 1-3% cashback on SNAP purchases and track your EBT balance: If you are already a SNAP recipient, use Benny to monitor your SNAP EBT balance and get a 1-3% cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Get 1% cashback with Benny Visa card and build your credit score: Every purchase helps improve financial future.
Download Benny and start saving on your next shopping trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Texas WIC Program offers nutritional support to families across the state, helping them thrive. This program is designed for expecting mothers, nursing parents, and anyone raising young children. Understanding how TX's WIC services work is the first step to accessing valuable resources for your family.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know. We will cover WIC eligibility, the application process, and using your benefits at the store. We’ll also explain how WIC works alongside other programs like SNAP.
What is the Texas WIC Program?
WIC is a special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children. In Texas, the Health and Human Services Commission runs the program, providing services to families statewide. It helps families buy healthy foods and get nutrition education to support healthy growth and development.
Participation in WIC is linked to significant health improvements. This includes healthier babies with better birth weights and improved diets for children. These early advantages support better long-term health and development for the whole family.
Benefits Available Through Texas WIC
Supplemental food assistance: Participants receive monthly benefits on an eWIC card to buy specific healthy foods like milk, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains at approved grocery stores.
Personalized nutrition services: Families get one-on-one counseling and group classes with nutrition experts to learn about healthy eating habits tailored to their needs.
Health assessments and screenings: WIC provides regular health checks, including height and weight measurements and iron-level screenings, to monitor your child’s growth and well-being.
Breastfeeding support: Expecting and new mothers receive encouragement, information, and support from lactation consultants and peer counselors to help them meet their breastfeeding goals.
Community connections and referrals: WIC helps connect families to other important services, such as immunizations, medical care, and other social service programs in their community.
WIC Eligibility for Texas WIC
WIC eligibility is designed to support a wide range of families. Many people are surprised to find they qualify for the program, as the requirements are broader than often assumed. It serves families from various backgrounds and living situations across TX.
Who Qualifies for Texas WIC
Pregnant individuals
Postpartum individuals, for up to six months after delivery
Breastfeeding parents, for up to one year after delivery
Infants and children under five years old
You do not have to be a mother to apply for a child. Fathers, grandparents, foster parents, and legal guardians can all apply for WIC benefits on behalf of an eligible child in their care.
Texas WIC Income Requirements
To qualify, your household's gross income must be at or below 185% of the U.S. Poverty Income Guidelines. If you or a family member already participates in Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF, you automatically meet the income requirement.
2024-2025 WIC Income Guidelines | ||
Household Size | Monthly Income | Annual Income |
|---|---|---|
1 | $2,322 | $27,861 |
2 | $3,152 | $37,814 |
3 | $3,981 | $47,767 |
4 | $4,810 | $57,720 |
5 | $5,640 | $67,673 |
6 | $6,469 | $77,626 |
7 | $7,299 | $87,579 |
8 | $8,128 | $97,532 |
When counting your household size, be sure to include unborn children. For example, a pregnant person with no other children would count as a household of two.
Nutritional Risk Assessment
A WIC staff member will conduct a brief health and diet screening. This involves checking basic measurements like height and weight and may include a simple blood test to check for anemia.
You will also discuss your family’s eating habits and medical history. This helps the WIC team understand your nutritional needs and provide the right support for your family.
Most applicants who meet the income guidelines are also found to have a nutritional need. The assessment ensures the program serves those who will benefit most from its resources.
How to Apply for WIC in Texas
Applying for WIC in Texas is a straightforward process. The first step is to contact your local WIC clinic to schedule an appointment. Many clinics offer same-day appointments and can certify you immediately if you bring all the required documents with you.
Required Documentation for Your Texas WIC Appointment
Gathering your documents ahead of time will make your appointment go smoothly. You will need to provide proof for three categories. It is a good idea to ask your clinic if they accept digital copies or if you need to bring paper documents.
Proof of Identity: You need ID for yourself and anyone else you are applying for. This can include a driver's license, birth certificate, military ID, passport, or hospital records.
Proof of Texas Residency: You must show you live in TX. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, or any mail with your name and address. A driver's license with your current address also works.
Income Documentation: If you are not automatically eligible through Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF, you must provide proof of income. This includes recent pay stubs, a letter from your employer, or self-employment records.
The Texas WIC Application Process
Your WIC appointment will involve several steps, all completed in one visit. A staff member will guide you through the process and answer any questions you have.
You will fill out the application form with help from WIC staff.
A staff member will conduct a simple nutritional assessment, which includes checking height, weight, and iron levels.
You will participate in a brief nutrition education session, which may be a short video, a class, or a one-on-one chat.
Based on your needs, you will be assigned a food package.
You will receive your eWIC card and learn how to use it to purchase approved foods.
Maintaining Your Texas WIC Benefits
Once you are enrolled, you will need to attend regular appointments, typically every two to three months. These appointments include follow-up nutrition education, which can often be completed online or in person. You will also need to complete a recertification periodically to confirm your eligibility.
Pregnant individuals: Certified for the duration of the pregnancy.
Breastfeeding parents: Certified for up to one year postpartum.
Non-breastfeeding postpartum: Certified for up to six months postpartum.
Infants and children: Certified for six months to a year at a time, until their fifth birthday.
Reporting Changes to Texas WIC
It is important to keep your information up to date. You must contact your WIC office if any of the following circumstances change:
Your address or phone number
You become pregnant
A new baby or child joins your household
Your breastfeeding status changes
Your household income changes significantly
You start or stop receiving SNAP, Medicaid, or TANF
Download Benny app to save on groceries
Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score
Download the app
Texas WIC Customer Service
The Texas WIC team is ready to assist you. Whether you have questions about your benefits or need help with the application process, support is available through several channels.
Texas WIC State Office
Phone: 1-800-942-3678
Mailing Address: Texas WIC, P.O. Box 149347, Mail Code 1946, Austin, TX 78714-9347
Website: TexasWIC.org
Find Your Local County WIC Office
For direct assistance, contact your county WIC office. Clinics are located in all 254 Texas counties. Local staff can help you apply for benefits, answer specific questions, and offer guidance.
Texas WIC App
The MyTexasWIC app provides convenient access to your benefits. You can use it to:
Check your benefit balance in real-time
Scan items at the store to see if they are WIC-approved
Locate WIC-authorized grocery stores near you
View reminders for upcoming appointments
Access your shopping list
For questions about civil rights or equal access
If you have questions regarding civil rights or believe you have been treated unfairly, please call the Civil Rights Office at 1-888-997-3337.
Office Hours
Most WIC clinics in TX operate during standard business hours, typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays. However, hours can vary by location, so it is best to call your local office to confirm.
Friendly and knowledgeable staff are available to support you and your family throughout your WIC journey. Do not hesitate to reach out for any assistance you may need.
Transferring Texas WIC Benefits When Moving
If you are moving to a new county within Texas, contact the WIC office in your new location. Bring your current eWIC card and any documentation from your previous clinic to help streamline the transfer process and continue receiving your benefits without interruption.
For an out-of-state move, follow these steps to transfer your benefits:
Request a Verification of Certification (VOC) form from your Texas WIC office.
Try to use your remaining benefits in TX before you leave.
Contact the WIC program in your new state immediately upon arrival.
Schedule an appointment and bring your VOC form to it.
Each state has its own eWIC card system. Your Texas eWIC card is only accepted at authorized retailers within TX and will not work in other states. You will receive a new card from your new state's WIC program once you are enrolled.
Shopping with Texas WIC Benefits
Texas WIC provides food packages tailored to your life stage and nutritional needs. Your benefits are loaded onto an eWIC card, which works like a debit card at authorized stores. This guide will help you make the most of your shopping trips.
Texas WIC Approved Foods
Your food package includes a variety of healthy items from the following categories:
Fruits and vegetables: A monthly cash value benefit (CVB) is provided for fresh, frozen, or canned options. Pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding participants receive a higher amount than children.
Dairy products: This includes different types of milk, cheese, and yogurt.
Protein sources: You can purchase eggs, peanut butter, and canned or dried beans and peas. Canned fish is available for fully breastfeeding participants.
Whole grains: Choose from 100% whole-wheat bread, brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, corn or whole-wheat tortillas, and approved cereals.
Other items: Your benefits may also cover 100% fruit or vegetable juice, infant formula, infant cereal, and baby foods.
Recent updates to the food packages offer more whole grains and items with reduced sugar. The program also includes more culturally appropriate foods, flexible infant formula amounts, and different package sizes to better meet your family’s needs.
Special Dietary Needs in Texas
Texas WIC accommodates various dietary requirements. If you or your child has specific needs, alternatives are available. These can include lactose-free milk, soy-based options for allergies, or substitutions that align with cultural food preferences. Medically necessary formulas can also be provided with a doctor's prescription.
Always discuss any dietary concerns with your WIC nutritionist. They can adjust your food package to ensure you receive the right nutrition for your health needs.
Using Your Texas eWIC Card at Stores
Before Shopping
Download the MyTexasWIC app to manage your benefits on the go.
Use the app to check your current benefit balance and view a list of approved brands and package sizes.
While Shopping
Look for shelf tags that identify WIC-approved items in the aisles.
Use the app’s scanner to confirm if an item is eligible.
Try to purchase your fresh fruits and vegetables early in the month before the benefit value expires.
At Checkout
Use your eWIC card before any other form of payment, like SNAP or a debit card.
The system will automatically deduct all approved WIC items from your purchase.
Keep your receipt to see your remaining benefit balance.
Many major grocery chains and smaller independent stores across TX are authorized to accept WIC. You can find a complete list of approved stores in your area using the MyTexasWIC app.
Infant Formula Coverage in Texas
Texas WIC provides infant formula to support your baby’s nutritional needs. The program works with families to determine the right amount of formula based on your unique situation, whether you are supplementing breastfeeding or exclusively formula-feeding.
Formula Amount Determination
Baby's age
Feeding method (exclusively formula or combination with breastfeeding)
Formula type (standard, soy-based, specialized)
Formula form (powder or liquid concentrate)
Texas WIC contracts with specific formula manufacturers to provide standard milk- and soy-based formulas. Participants receive these contracted brands. If your baby requires a special medical formula, it can be provided with documentation from a healthcare provider.
Nutrition Education in Texas WIC
Texas WIC requires participants to complete nutrition education. To accommodate busy schedules, a variety of learning formats are offered. This flexibility helps you get the information you need in a way that works for you and your family.
You can choose from several education formats:
In-person sessions, either one-on-one or in a group setting
Online learning modules that you can complete at your own pace
Virtual appointments by video or phone with a WIC nutritionist
Educational materials like printed resources, recipe cards, and meal planning guides
These sessions cover a wide range of topics, including:
Healthy eating during pregnancy
Infant feeding and how to introduce solid foods
Meal planning and shopping on a budget
Proper food safety and preparation techniques
Managing nutrition-related health conditions
Child development and common feeding behaviors
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance
Download the app
Additional Texas WIC Benefits and Discounts
Museums for All
WIC participants can enjoy free or significantly reduced admission to hundreds of museums nationwide. This program includes many participating locations throughout Texas, making cultural experiences more accessible for families.
Utility Assistance
Some utility companies may offer discounts on your monthly bills if you are a WIC participant. It is best to contact your local electricity, gas, and water providers directly to ask about available assistance programs.
Farmers Market Nutrition Program
This seasonal program provides extra funds to buy fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables. You can use these benefits at participating farmers markets. Availability can vary across TX depending on location and current funding.
Combining Texas WIC with Other Assistance Programs
You can receive WIC benefits while enrolled in other government assistance programs. In many cases, participating in certain programs automatically means you meet the income requirements for WIC, simplifying the application process for your family.
SNAP (Food Stamps): WIC supplements the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program by providing specific healthy foods. You can use both benefits in one transaction—just use your WIC card first, then your SNAP EBT card. Enrollment in SNAP automatically makes you income-eligible for WIC in Texas.
Medicaid: If you or your children are enrolled in Medicaid, you automatically meet the income requirements for WIC. This helps families receiving health coverage easily access nutritional support without providing separate income proof.
TANF: Receiving benefits from Temporary Assistance for Needy Families also automatically qualifies you for WIC based on income. This program provides financial assistance, and its recipients are presumed eligible for the nutritional benefits WIC offers.
Child Care Assistance: Getting help with child care costs through state subsidy programs does not impact your WIC eligibility. These are separate benefits, and you can receive assistance from both programs at the same time without any reduction in support.
These programs are designed to work together, each addressing different needs for your family. Enrolling in one does not reduce your benefits from another. Instead, they combine to provide a stronger support system for health, nutrition, and financial stability.
Maximize Your Grocery Savings with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps save on other groceries at stores like Walmart, Walgreens, Aldi, Whole Foods, Kroger, Target, Trader Joe's as well as services such as Instacart and Lyft.
Get coupons for your favorite brands: Access exclusive digital coupons for thousands of products.
Earn a 1-3% cashback on SNAP purchases and track your EBT balance: If you are already a SNAP recipient, use Benny to monitor your SNAP EBT balance and get a 1-3% cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Get 1% cashback with Benny Visa card and build your credit score: Every purchase helps improve financial future.
Download Benny and start saving on your next shopping trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Texas WIC Program offers nutritional support to families across the state, helping them thrive. This program is designed for expecting mothers, nursing parents, and anyone raising young children. Understanding how TX's WIC services work is the first step to accessing valuable resources for your family.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know. We will cover WIC eligibility, the application process, and using your benefits at the store. We’ll also explain how WIC works alongside other programs like SNAP.
What is the Texas WIC Program?
WIC is a special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children. In Texas, the Health and Human Services Commission runs the program, providing services to families statewide. It helps families buy healthy foods and get nutrition education to support healthy growth and development.
Participation in WIC is linked to significant health improvements. This includes healthier babies with better birth weights and improved diets for children. These early advantages support better long-term health and development for the whole family.
Benefits Available Through Texas WIC
Supplemental food assistance: Participants receive monthly benefits on an eWIC card to buy specific healthy foods like milk, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains at approved grocery stores.
Personalized nutrition services: Families get one-on-one counseling and group classes with nutrition experts to learn about healthy eating habits tailored to their needs.
Health assessments and screenings: WIC provides regular health checks, including height and weight measurements and iron-level screenings, to monitor your child’s growth and well-being.
Breastfeeding support: Expecting and new mothers receive encouragement, information, and support from lactation consultants and peer counselors to help them meet their breastfeeding goals.
Community connections and referrals: WIC helps connect families to other important services, such as immunizations, medical care, and other social service programs in their community.
WIC Eligibility for Texas WIC
WIC eligibility is designed to support a wide range of families. Many people are surprised to find they qualify for the program, as the requirements are broader than often assumed. It serves families from various backgrounds and living situations across TX.
Who Qualifies for Texas WIC
Pregnant individuals
Postpartum individuals, for up to six months after delivery
Breastfeeding parents, for up to one year after delivery
Infants and children under five years old
You do not have to be a mother to apply for a child. Fathers, grandparents, foster parents, and legal guardians can all apply for WIC benefits on behalf of an eligible child in their care.
Texas WIC Income Requirements
To qualify, your household's gross income must be at or below 185% of the U.S. Poverty Income Guidelines. If you or a family member already participates in Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF, you automatically meet the income requirement.
2024-2025 WIC Income Guidelines | ||
Household Size | Monthly Income | Annual Income |
|---|---|---|
1 | $2,322 | $27,861 |
2 | $3,152 | $37,814 |
3 | $3,981 | $47,767 |
4 | $4,810 | $57,720 |
5 | $5,640 | $67,673 |
6 | $6,469 | $77,626 |
7 | $7,299 | $87,579 |
8 | $8,128 | $97,532 |
When counting your household size, be sure to include unborn children. For example, a pregnant person with no other children would count as a household of two.
Nutritional Risk Assessment
A WIC staff member will conduct a brief health and diet screening. This involves checking basic measurements like height and weight and may include a simple blood test to check for anemia.
You will also discuss your family’s eating habits and medical history. This helps the WIC team understand your nutritional needs and provide the right support for your family.
Most applicants who meet the income guidelines are also found to have a nutritional need. The assessment ensures the program serves those who will benefit most from its resources.
How to Apply for WIC in Texas
Applying for WIC in Texas is a straightforward process. The first step is to contact your local WIC clinic to schedule an appointment. Many clinics offer same-day appointments and can certify you immediately if you bring all the required documents with you.
Required Documentation for Your Texas WIC Appointment
Gathering your documents ahead of time will make your appointment go smoothly. You will need to provide proof for three categories. It is a good idea to ask your clinic if they accept digital copies or if you need to bring paper documents.
Proof of Identity: You need ID for yourself and anyone else you are applying for. This can include a driver's license, birth certificate, military ID, passport, or hospital records.
Proof of Texas Residency: You must show you live in TX. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, or any mail with your name and address. A driver's license with your current address also works.
Income Documentation: If you are not automatically eligible through Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF, you must provide proof of income. This includes recent pay stubs, a letter from your employer, or self-employment records.
The Texas WIC Application Process
Your WIC appointment will involve several steps, all completed in one visit. A staff member will guide you through the process and answer any questions you have.
You will fill out the application form with help from WIC staff.
A staff member will conduct a simple nutritional assessment, which includes checking height, weight, and iron levels.
You will participate in a brief nutrition education session, which may be a short video, a class, or a one-on-one chat.
Based on your needs, you will be assigned a food package.
You will receive your eWIC card and learn how to use it to purchase approved foods.
Maintaining Your Texas WIC Benefits
Once you are enrolled, you will need to attend regular appointments, typically every two to three months. These appointments include follow-up nutrition education, which can often be completed online or in person. You will also need to complete a recertification periodically to confirm your eligibility.
Pregnant individuals: Certified for the duration of the pregnancy.
Breastfeeding parents: Certified for up to one year postpartum.
Non-breastfeeding postpartum: Certified for up to six months postpartum.
Infants and children: Certified for six months to a year at a time, until their fifth birthday.
Reporting Changes to Texas WIC
It is important to keep your information up to date. You must contact your WIC office if any of the following circumstances change:
Your address or phone number
You become pregnant
A new baby or child joins your household
Your breastfeeding status changes
Your household income changes significantly
You start or stop receiving SNAP, Medicaid, or TANF
Download Benny app to save on groceries
Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score
Download the app
Texas WIC Customer Service
The Texas WIC team is ready to assist you. Whether you have questions about your benefits or need help with the application process, support is available through several channels.
Texas WIC State Office
Phone: 1-800-942-3678
Mailing Address: Texas WIC, P.O. Box 149347, Mail Code 1946, Austin, TX 78714-9347
Website: TexasWIC.org
Find Your Local County WIC Office
For direct assistance, contact your county WIC office. Clinics are located in all 254 Texas counties. Local staff can help you apply for benefits, answer specific questions, and offer guidance.
Texas WIC App
The MyTexasWIC app provides convenient access to your benefits. You can use it to:
Check your benefit balance in real-time
Scan items at the store to see if they are WIC-approved
Locate WIC-authorized grocery stores near you
View reminders for upcoming appointments
Access your shopping list
For questions about civil rights or equal access
If you have questions regarding civil rights or believe you have been treated unfairly, please call the Civil Rights Office at 1-888-997-3337.
Office Hours
Most WIC clinics in TX operate during standard business hours, typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays. However, hours can vary by location, so it is best to call your local office to confirm.
Friendly and knowledgeable staff are available to support you and your family throughout your WIC journey. Do not hesitate to reach out for any assistance you may need.
Transferring Texas WIC Benefits When Moving
If you are moving to a new county within Texas, contact the WIC office in your new location. Bring your current eWIC card and any documentation from your previous clinic to help streamline the transfer process and continue receiving your benefits without interruption.
For an out-of-state move, follow these steps to transfer your benefits:
Request a Verification of Certification (VOC) form from your Texas WIC office.
Try to use your remaining benefits in TX before you leave.
Contact the WIC program in your new state immediately upon arrival.
Schedule an appointment and bring your VOC form to it.
Each state has its own eWIC card system. Your Texas eWIC card is only accepted at authorized retailers within TX and will not work in other states. You will receive a new card from your new state's WIC program once you are enrolled.
Shopping with Texas WIC Benefits
Texas WIC provides food packages tailored to your life stage and nutritional needs. Your benefits are loaded onto an eWIC card, which works like a debit card at authorized stores. This guide will help you make the most of your shopping trips.
Texas WIC Approved Foods
Your food package includes a variety of healthy items from the following categories:
Fruits and vegetables: A monthly cash value benefit (CVB) is provided for fresh, frozen, or canned options. Pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding participants receive a higher amount than children.
Dairy products: This includes different types of milk, cheese, and yogurt.
Protein sources: You can purchase eggs, peanut butter, and canned or dried beans and peas. Canned fish is available for fully breastfeeding participants.
Whole grains: Choose from 100% whole-wheat bread, brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, corn or whole-wheat tortillas, and approved cereals.
Other items: Your benefits may also cover 100% fruit or vegetable juice, infant formula, infant cereal, and baby foods.
Recent updates to the food packages offer more whole grains and items with reduced sugar. The program also includes more culturally appropriate foods, flexible infant formula amounts, and different package sizes to better meet your family’s needs.
Special Dietary Needs in Texas
Texas WIC accommodates various dietary requirements. If you or your child has specific needs, alternatives are available. These can include lactose-free milk, soy-based options for allergies, or substitutions that align with cultural food preferences. Medically necessary formulas can also be provided with a doctor's prescription.
Always discuss any dietary concerns with your WIC nutritionist. They can adjust your food package to ensure you receive the right nutrition for your health needs.
Using Your Texas eWIC Card at Stores
Before Shopping
Download the MyTexasWIC app to manage your benefits on the go.
Use the app to check your current benefit balance and view a list of approved brands and package sizes.
While Shopping
Look for shelf tags that identify WIC-approved items in the aisles.
Use the app’s scanner to confirm if an item is eligible.
Try to purchase your fresh fruits and vegetables early in the month before the benefit value expires.
At Checkout
Use your eWIC card before any other form of payment, like SNAP or a debit card.
The system will automatically deduct all approved WIC items from your purchase.
Keep your receipt to see your remaining benefit balance.
Many major grocery chains and smaller independent stores across TX are authorized to accept WIC. You can find a complete list of approved stores in your area using the MyTexasWIC app.
Infant Formula Coverage in Texas
Texas WIC provides infant formula to support your baby’s nutritional needs. The program works with families to determine the right amount of formula based on your unique situation, whether you are supplementing breastfeeding or exclusively formula-feeding.
Formula Amount Determination
Baby's age
Feeding method (exclusively formula or combination with breastfeeding)
Formula type (standard, soy-based, specialized)
Formula form (powder or liquid concentrate)
Texas WIC contracts with specific formula manufacturers to provide standard milk- and soy-based formulas. Participants receive these contracted brands. If your baby requires a special medical formula, it can be provided with documentation from a healthcare provider.
Nutrition Education in Texas WIC
Texas WIC requires participants to complete nutrition education. To accommodate busy schedules, a variety of learning formats are offered. This flexibility helps you get the information you need in a way that works for you and your family.
You can choose from several education formats:
In-person sessions, either one-on-one or in a group setting
Online learning modules that you can complete at your own pace
Virtual appointments by video or phone with a WIC nutritionist
Educational materials like printed resources, recipe cards, and meal planning guides
These sessions cover a wide range of topics, including:
Healthy eating during pregnancy
Infant feeding and how to introduce solid foods
Meal planning and shopping on a budget
Proper food safety and preparation techniques
Managing nutrition-related health conditions
Child development and common feeding behaviors
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance
Download the app
Additional Texas WIC Benefits and Discounts
Museums for All
WIC participants can enjoy free or significantly reduced admission to hundreds of museums nationwide. This program includes many participating locations throughout Texas, making cultural experiences more accessible for families.
Utility Assistance
Some utility companies may offer discounts on your monthly bills if you are a WIC participant. It is best to contact your local electricity, gas, and water providers directly to ask about available assistance programs.
Farmers Market Nutrition Program
This seasonal program provides extra funds to buy fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables. You can use these benefits at participating farmers markets. Availability can vary across TX depending on location and current funding.
Combining Texas WIC with Other Assistance Programs
You can receive WIC benefits while enrolled in other government assistance programs. In many cases, participating in certain programs automatically means you meet the income requirements for WIC, simplifying the application process for your family.
SNAP (Food Stamps): WIC supplements the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program by providing specific healthy foods. You can use both benefits in one transaction—just use your WIC card first, then your SNAP EBT card. Enrollment in SNAP automatically makes you income-eligible for WIC in Texas.
Medicaid: If you or your children are enrolled in Medicaid, you automatically meet the income requirements for WIC. This helps families receiving health coverage easily access nutritional support without providing separate income proof.
TANF: Receiving benefits from Temporary Assistance for Needy Families also automatically qualifies you for WIC based on income. This program provides financial assistance, and its recipients are presumed eligible for the nutritional benefits WIC offers.
Child Care Assistance: Getting help with child care costs through state subsidy programs does not impact your WIC eligibility. These are separate benefits, and you can receive assistance from both programs at the same time without any reduction in support.
These programs are designed to work together, each addressing different needs for your family. Enrolling in one does not reduce your benefits from another. Instead, they combine to provide a stronger support system for health, nutrition, and financial stability.
Maximize Your Grocery Savings with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps save on other groceries at stores like Walmart, Walgreens, Aldi, Whole Foods, Kroger, Target, Trader Joe's as well as services such as Instacart and Lyft.
Get coupons for your favorite brands: Access exclusive digital coupons for thousands of products.
Earn a 1-3% cashback on SNAP purchases and track your EBT balance: If you are already a SNAP recipient, use Benny to monitor your SNAP EBT balance and get a 1-3% cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Get 1% cashback with Benny Visa card and build your credit score: Every purchase helps improve financial future.
Download Benny and start saving on your next shopping trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Texas WIC Program offers nutritional support to families across the state, helping them thrive. This program is designed for expecting mothers, nursing parents, and anyone raising young children. Understanding how TX's WIC services work is the first step to accessing valuable resources for your family.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know. We will cover WIC eligibility, the application process, and using your benefits at the store. We’ll also explain how WIC works alongside other programs like SNAP.
What is the Texas WIC Program?
WIC is a special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children. In Texas, the Health and Human Services Commission runs the program, providing services to families statewide. It helps families buy healthy foods and get nutrition education to support healthy growth and development.
Participation in WIC is linked to significant health improvements. This includes healthier babies with better birth weights and improved diets for children. These early advantages support better long-term health and development for the whole family.
Benefits Available Through Texas WIC
Supplemental food assistance: Participants receive monthly benefits on an eWIC card to buy specific healthy foods like milk, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains at approved grocery stores.
Personalized nutrition services: Families get one-on-one counseling and group classes with nutrition experts to learn about healthy eating habits tailored to their needs.
Health assessments and screenings: WIC provides regular health checks, including height and weight measurements and iron-level screenings, to monitor your child’s growth and well-being.
Breastfeeding support: Expecting and new mothers receive encouragement, information, and support from lactation consultants and peer counselors to help them meet their breastfeeding goals.
Community connections and referrals: WIC helps connect families to other important services, such as immunizations, medical care, and other social service programs in their community.
WIC Eligibility for Texas WIC
WIC eligibility is designed to support a wide range of families. Many people are surprised to find they qualify for the program, as the requirements are broader than often assumed. It serves families from various backgrounds and living situations across TX.
Who Qualifies for Texas WIC
Pregnant individuals
Postpartum individuals, for up to six months after delivery
Breastfeeding parents, for up to one year after delivery
Infants and children under five years old
You do not have to be a mother to apply for a child. Fathers, grandparents, foster parents, and legal guardians can all apply for WIC benefits on behalf of an eligible child in their care.
Texas WIC Income Requirements
To qualify, your household's gross income must be at or below 185% of the U.S. Poverty Income Guidelines. If you or a family member already participates in Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF, you automatically meet the income requirement.
2024-2025 WIC Income Guidelines | ||
Household Size | Monthly Income | Annual Income |
|---|---|---|
1 | $2,322 | $27,861 |
2 | $3,152 | $37,814 |
3 | $3,981 | $47,767 |
4 | $4,810 | $57,720 |
5 | $5,640 | $67,673 |
6 | $6,469 | $77,626 |
7 | $7,299 | $87,579 |
8 | $8,128 | $97,532 |
When counting your household size, be sure to include unborn children. For example, a pregnant person with no other children would count as a household of two.
Nutritional Risk Assessment
A WIC staff member will conduct a brief health and diet screening. This involves checking basic measurements like height and weight and may include a simple blood test to check for anemia.
You will also discuss your family’s eating habits and medical history. This helps the WIC team understand your nutritional needs and provide the right support for your family.
Most applicants who meet the income guidelines are also found to have a nutritional need. The assessment ensures the program serves those who will benefit most from its resources.
How to Apply for WIC in Texas
Applying for WIC in Texas is a straightforward process. The first step is to contact your local WIC clinic to schedule an appointment. Many clinics offer same-day appointments and can certify you immediately if you bring all the required documents with you.
Required Documentation for Your Texas WIC Appointment
Gathering your documents ahead of time will make your appointment go smoothly. You will need to provide proof for three categories. It is a good idea to ask your clinic if they accept digital copies or if you need to bring paper documents.
Proof of Identity: You need ID for yourself and anyone else you are applying for. This can include a driver's license, birth certificate, military ID, passport, or hospital records.
Proof of Texas Residency: You must show you live in TX. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, or any mail with your name and address. A driver's license with your current address also works.
Income Documentation: If you are not automatically eligible through Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF, you must provide proof of income. This includes recent pay stubs, a letter from your employer, or self-employment records.
The Texas WIC Application Process
Your WIC appointment will involve several steps, all completed in one visit. A staff member will guide you through the process and answer any questions you have.
You will fill out the application form with help from WIC staff.
A staff member will conduct a simple nutritional assessment, which includes checking height, weight, and iron levels.
You will participate in a brief nutrition education session, which may be a short video, a class, or a one-on-one chat.
Based on your needs, you will be assigned a food package.
You will receive your eWIC card and learn how to use it to purchase approved foods.
Maintaining Your Texas WIC Benefits
Once you are enrolled, you will need to attend regular appointments, typically every two to three months. These appointments include follow-up nutrition education, which can often be completed online or in person. You will also need to complete a recertification periodically to confirm your eligibility.
Pregnant individuals: Certified for the duration of the pregnancy.
Breastfeeding parents: Certified for up to one year postpartum.
Non-breastfeeding postpartum: Certified for up to six months postpartum.
Infants and children: Certified for six months to a year at a time, until their fifth birthday.
Reporting Changes to Texas WIC
It is important to keep your information up to date. You must contact your WIC office if any of the following circumstances change:
Your address or phone number
You become pregnant
A new baby or child joins your household
Your breastfeeding status changes
Your household income changes significantly
You start or stop receiving SNAP, Medicaid, or TANF
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Texas WIC Customer Service
The Texas WIC team is ready to assist you. Whether you have questions about your benefits or need help with the application process, support is available through several channels.
Texas WIC State Office
Phone: 1-800-942-3678
Mailing Address: Texas WIC, P.O. Box 149347, Mail Code 1946, Austin, TX 78714-9347
Website: TexasWIC.org
Find Your Local County WIC Office
For direct assistance, contact your county WIC office. Clinics are located in all 254 Texas counties. Local staff can help you apply for benefits, answer specific questions, and offer guidance.
Texas WIC App
The MyTexasWIC app provides convenient access to your benefits. You can use it to:
Check your benefit balance in real-time
Scan items at the store to see if they are WIC-approved
Locate WIC-authorized grocery stores near you
View reminders for upcoming appointments
Access your shopping list
For questions about civil rights or equal access
If you have questions regarding civil rights or believe you have been treated unfairly, please call the Civil Rights Office at 1-888-997-3337.
Office Hours
Most WIC clinics in TX operate during standard business hours, typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays. However, hours can vary by location, so it is best to call your local office to confirm.
Friendly and knowledgeable staff are available to support you and your family throughout your WIC journey. Do not hesitate to reach out for any assistance you may need.
Transferring Texas WIC Benefits When Moving
If you are moving to a new county within Texas, contact the WIC office in your new location. Bring your current eWIC card and any documentation from your previous clinic to help streamline the transfer process and continue receiving your benefits without interruption.
For an out-of-state move, follow these steps to transfer your benefits:
Request a Verification of Certification (VOC) form from your Texas WIC office.
Try to use your remaining benefits in TX before you leave.
Contact the WIC program in your new state immediately upon arrival.
Schedule an appointment and bring your VOC form to it.
Each state has its own eWIC card system. Your Texas eWIC card is only accepted at authorized retailers within TX and will not work in other states. You will receive a new card from your new state's WIC program once you are enrolled.
Shopping with Texas WIC Benefits
Texas WIC provides food packages tailored to your life stage and nutritional needs. Your benefits are loaded onto an eWIC card, which works like a debit card at authorized stores. This guide will help you make the most of your shopping trips.
Texas WIC Approved Foods
Your food package includes a variety of healthy items from the following categories:
Fruits and vegetables: A monthly cash value benefit (CVB) is provided for fresh, frozen, or canned options. Pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding participants receive a higher amount than children.
Dairy products: This includes different types of milk, cheese, and yogurt.
Protein sources: You can purchase eggs, peanut butter, and canned or dried beans and peas. Canned fish is available for fully breastfeeding participants.
Whole grains: Choose from 100% whole-wheat bread, brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, corn or whole-wheat tortillas, and approved cereals.
Other items: Your benefits may also cover 100% fruit or vegetable juice, infant formula, infant cereal, and baby foods.
Recent updates to the food packages offer more whole grains and items with reduced sugar. The program also includes more culturally appropriate foods, flexible infant formula amounts, and different package sizes to better meet your family’s needs.
Special Dietary Needs in Texas
Texas WIC accommodates various dietary requirements. If you or your child has specific needs, alternatives are available. These can include lactose-free milk, soy-based options for allergies, or substitutions that align with cultural food preferences. Medically necessary formulas can also be provided with a doctor's prescription.
Always discuss any dietary concerns with your WIC nutritionist. They can adjust your food package to ensure you receive the right nutrition for your health needs.
Using Your Texas eWIC Card at Stores
Before Shopping
Download the MyTexasWIC app to manage your benefits on the go.
Use the app to check your current benefit balance and view a list of approved brands and package sizes.
While Shopping
Look for shelf tags that identify WIC-approved items in the aisles.
Use the app’s scanner to confirm if an item is eligible.
Try to purchase your fresh fruits and vegetables early in the month before the benefit value expires.
At Checkout
Use your eWIC card before any other form of payment, like SNAP or a debit card.
The system will automatically deduct all approved WIC items from your purchase.
Keep your receipt to see your remaining benefit balance.
Many major grocery chains and smaller independent stores across TX are authorized to accept WIC. You can find a complete list of approved stores in your area using the MyTexasWIC app.
Infant Formula Coverage in Texas
Texas WIC provides infant formula to support your baby’s nutritional needs. The program works with families to determine the right amount of formula based on your unique situation, whether you are supplementing breastfeeding or exclusively formula-feeding.
Formula Amount Determination
Baby's age
Feeding method (exclusively formula or combination with breastfeeding)
Formula type (standard, soy-based, specialized)
Formula form (powder or liquid concentrate)
Texas WIC contracts with specific formula manufacturers to provide standard milk- and soy-based formulas. Participants receive these contracted brands. If your baby requires a special medical formula, it can be provided with documentation from a healthcare provider.
Nutrition Education in Texas WIC
Texas WIC requires participants to complete nutrition education. To accommodate busy schedules, a variety of learning formats are offered. This flexibility helps you get the information you need in a way that works for you and your family.
You can choose from several education formats:
In-person sessions, either one-on-one or in a group setting
Online learning modules that you can complete at your own pace
Virtual appointments by video or phone with a WIC nutritionist
Educational materials like printed resources, recipe cards, and meal planning guides
These sessions cover a wide range of topics, including:
Healthy eating during pregnancy
Infant feeding and how to introduce solid foods
Meal planning and shopping on a budget
Proper food safety and preparation techniques
Managing nutrition-related health conditions
Child development and common feeding behaviors
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Additional Texas WIC Benefits and Discounts
Museums for All
WIC participants can enjoy free or significantly reduced admission to hundreds of museums nationwide. This program includes many participating locations throughout Texas, making cultural experiences more accessible for families.
Utility Assistance
Some utility companies may offer discounts on your monthly bills if you are a WIC participant. It is best to contact your local electricity, gas, and water providers directly to ask about available assistance programs.
Farmers Market Nutrition Program
This seasonal program provides extra funds to buy fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables. You can use these benefits at participating farmers markets. Availability can vary across TX depending on location and current funding.
Combining Texas WIC with Other Assistance Programs
You can receive WIC benefits while enrolled in other government assistance programs. In many cases, participating in certain programs automatically means you meet the income requirements for WIC, simplifying the application process for your family.
SNAP (Food Stamps): WIC supplements the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program by providing specific healthy foods. You can use both benefits in one transaction—just use your WIC card first, then your SNAP EBT card. Enrollment in SNAP automatically makes you income-eligible for WIC in Texas.
Medicaid: If you or your children are enrolled in Medicaid, you automatically meet the income requirements for WIC. This helps families receiving health coverage easily access nutritional support without providing separate income proof.
TANF: Receiving benefits from Temporary Assistance for Needy Families also automatically qualifies you for WIC based on income. This program provides financial assistance, and its recipients are presumed eligible for the nutritional benefits WIC offers.
Child Care Assistance: Getting help with child care costs through state subsidy programs does not impact your WIC eligibility. These are separate benefits, and you can receive assistance from both programs at the same time without any reduction in support.
These programs are designed to work together, each addressing different needs for your family. Enrolling in one does not reduce your benefits from another. Instead, they combine to provide a stronger support system for health, nutrition, and financial stability.
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