Yes, Walmart is a participating retailer for the federally funded Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), which means you can use your benefits at many of their stores. While in-store purchases are widely accepted, a recent pilot program has begun to expand options, including online ordering, for WIC users in certain states.
Shopping for WIC Items In-Store at Walmart
Using your eWIC card at a physical Walmart store is a straightforward process, though it differs slightly from using a standard debit card or EBT for SNAP benefits. Your eWIC card is loaded with benefits for specific food items, not a dollar amount for a general food budget.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Know Your List: Before you go, review your state's WIC-approved food list. You can often find this using the WICShopper app or through your local WIC clinic.
- Identify Items: In the store, look for items that match the exact brand, size, and type specified on your WIC list. Some stores, including Walmart, may place 'WIC Eligible' tags on shelves to help, but you should always cross-reference with your personalized list.
- Use Self-Checkout: Many Walmart locations allow WIC card use at self-checkout lanes, making the process faster for some customers.
- The Transaction: At the register, whether with a cashier or at self-checkout, always swipe your eWIC card first. The system will automatically separate your WIC-eligible items and deduct the cost from your benefits.
- Pay Separately: If your cart contains items not covered by WIC, you will be prompted to pay for those separately using another payment method.
- Check Your Receipt: Review the mid-transaction receipt carefully to ensure all expected WIC items were covered before finalizing the transaction.
Online WIC Shopping with Walmart.com
As of recent pilot programs in partnership with the USDA, Walmart has begun accepting online WIC orders in a few specific states. This service, available via Walmart.com or the app, includes options for delivery or in-store pickup, dramatically increasing accessibility for WIC families.
How to Use WIC for Walmart Online Orders:
- Check Your State: This service is currently only available for WIC cardholders in Washington and Massachusetts as part of a pilot program. Check Walmart's WIC hub online for any updates on expansion to your state.
- Create an Account: You will need a Walmart account to place an online order.
- Add Your WIC Card: Add your eWIC card to your account's 'Wallet' before you begin shopping online. A 'WIC' payment option will appear for eligible customers.
- Find Eligible Items: Once your card is added, the website experience will update to highlight items that are eligible under your specific WIC benefits prescription.
- Pay for Non-WIC Items: At checkout, your WIC benefits will be applied to the eligible products. You can then use another form of payment, such as a credit card or SNAP, to pay for any non-WIC items, including fees for delivery or shipping.
WIC vs. SNAP: What’s the Difference?
It is easy to confuse WIC with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), as both provide food assistance. However, there are significant differences in purpose and function. You can be eligible for and use both programs simultaneously.
| Feature | WIC Program | SNAP Program |
|---|---|---|
| Population Served | Pregnant and postpartum women, infants, and children up to age five. | Broader, low-income individuals and families of all ages. |
| What it Covers | Specific, designated nutritious foods based on a prescribed food package. | A wider variety of foods, including most groceries, snack foods, and non-alcoholic beverages. |
| How Benefits Work | EBT card or vouchers for specific food items. Benefits are time-limited and do not roll over. | EBT card with a monthly dollar amount. Benefits roll over from month to month. |
| Application Process | Includes an in-person or telehealth nutritional risk assessment. | Typically involves a less restrictive application process, often done online. |
The Authorized WIC Food List
While the specific foods on your WIC package are tailored to your needs, the USDA mandates the general categories of nutritious foods that can be included. Walmart stocks many of these items, but you should still consult your state's list for specific brands and sizes.
Common WIC-eligible food categories at Walmart:
- Fruits and Vegetables: Fresh, frozen, or canned options.
- Dairy Products: Milk, cheese, and yogurt.
- Proteins: Eggs, dried beans, peanut butter, and canned fish (for breastfeeding women).
- Infant Formula and Baby Food: Specific brands and sizes are covered.
- Whole Grains: Whole wheat bread, brown rice, tortillas, and pasta.
- Cereals: A selection of hot and cold cereals.
How to Get the Most from Your Benefits
To have a smooth WIC shopping experience at Walmart, preparing in advance is key. Your local WIC office is your best resource for up-to-date information on eligible items and any local updates. Use tools like the WICShopper app or the official Walmart WIC hub to help you plan your trip. For online ordering, if you live in a pilot state, adding your card to your Walmart wallet simplifies the process of finding and purchasing approved products. By staying informed and planning ahead, you can maximize your WIC benefits and ensure you get the nutritious food you need.
Shop with Your WIC Card - Walmart.com
Conclusion
Walmart accepts WIC benefits for eligible purchases in most of its stores nationwide, providing a convenient option for many families. The retailer has also expanded to include online WIC shopping for curbside pickup or delivery in specific pilot states, with more locations potentially being added in the future. By carefully referencing your state's approved food list and following the specific checkout procedures for WIC, you can successfully use your benefits at Walmart, both in-store and online where available.
