Most WIC programs now allow online purchases at certain stores, but not all retailers participate and rules vary by state

Whether you can use WIC to shop online depends on your state's program and which store you want to use. As of now, several large retailers accept WIC online, including Amazon (through a pilot program in select states), Walmart, and some regional grocery chains. However, the stores that participate change, and some states have not yet launched online WIC purchasing at all. You need to check with your specific state WIC program to find out which retailers near you currently accept WIC for online orders.

The process is different from regular online shopping. You typically cannot simply add items to a cart and pay with your WIC card the way you would with a credit card. Instead, most programs require you to place an order through the store's website, select only WIC-approved foods, and then either pick up the order at the store or have it delivered. Some states are still rolling out these services, so what works in one state may not work in another yet.

Key Takeaways

  • Online WIC shopping is available in some states through retailers like Walmart and Amazon, but participation varies by location and changes over time.
  • You must order through the store's website and select only foods on your state's WIC-approved list — you cannot use WIC like a regular payment method online.
  • Most online WIC orders require in-store pickup or delivery, not mail delivery, because WIC benefits cannot be used for shipping costs.
  • Your state WIC office or your EBT card issuer can tell you which stores in your area currently accept WIC online and how to set up an account.
  • Online shopping does not change which foods you can buy — the same WIC food rules apply whether you shop in person or online.

Which stores accept WIC online right now

Walmart is the largest retailer currently accepting WIC online in most states. You can order through Walmart.com, select WIC-approved items, and choose pickup at your local store. Amazon has a WIC pilot program running in a limited number of states; check with your state WIC program to see if Amazon Fresh is available in your area. Some regional chains and independent grocers also accept WIC online, but availability is spotty and depends on where you live.

The list of participating stores changes as more retailers join and some programs expand or pause their services. Your state WIC program maintains the current list of online retailers that accept WIC in your area. You can find this information on your state's WIC website, by calling your local WIC office, or by contacting the customer service number on the back of your EBT card.

How to place a WIC order online

Start by going to the retailer's website and creating an account if you do not already have one. When you shop, you will see a filter or section labeled "WIC-approved items" or similar language. Select only from that section — the website will not let you buy non-WIC foods with your WIC benefits. Add the items you want to your cart, then proceed to checkout.

At checkout, you will be asked how you want to receive your order. Most programs require in-store pickup because WIC cannot pay for shipping or delivery fees. If delivery is offered in your state, the delivery fee comes out of your own money, not your WIC benefits. After you place the order, you will receive a confirmation email with a pickup time or delivery window. Bring your EBT card to pickup, or have it ready if the store delivers to your home.

What foods you can and cannot buy online

The WIC food list does not change when you shop online. You can still only buy the specific foods your state allows: milk, cheese, yogurt, eggs, beans, peanut butter, cereal, bread, fruits, vegetables, and infant formula or baby food if you are in the infant category. The online store's WIC section will show you only the approved items and brands, so you do not have to guess whether something qualifies.

Some stores limit the quantity you can order of each item to match what you would normally buy in person. For example, if your WIC benefits cover two gallons of milk per month, the online system may not let you order more than that. These limits are built into the website to prevent misuse and to match your actual WIC allocation.

Setting up your account for online WIC shopping

To shop WIC online, you usually need to link your EBT card to the retailer's website. Go to the store's website, create an account, and look for an option to add a WIC or EBT card. You will enter your card number and may be asked to verify your identity. Some stores require you to confirm your WIC status or provide your case number before you can place an order.

If you have trouble linking your card or do not see a WIC option on the store's website, contact the store's customer service or your state WIC program. They can walk you through the setup or let you know if that store does not yet accept WIC in your state. Keep your EBT card information secure and do not share it with anyone else.

Pickup and delivery options for online WIC orders

In-store pickup is the most common option and is free. You place your order online, choose a pickup time that works for you, and go to the store to collect your groceries. Bring your EBT card with you. The store staff will have your order ready, and you will pay with your WIC card at pickup just as you would in person.

Some states and retailers now offer delivery, but you pay the delivery fee yourself — it does not come from your WIC benefits. If you choose delivery, the store will bring your order to your home during the window you selected. You still pay with your EBT card for the food itself, and you cover the delivery cost separately with your own money or another payment method.

Troubleshooting common online WIC shopping problems

If your EBT card is declined online, the most common reason is that the store's website does not recognize it as a WIC card. Try calling the store's customer service line and asking if they accept WIC online in your state. If they do, they may be able to help you link your card or place the order over the phone. If the store does not accept WIC online yet, you will need to shop in person or try a different retailer.

If you cannot find WIC-approved items on the store's website, make sure you are looking in the WIC section specifically. Regular grocery search results may show items that look like WIC foods but are not on your state's approved list. Use the WIC filter to see only what you can actually buy. If the WIC section is empty or very limited, the store may be out of stock or the service may not be fully set up yet in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use WIC to pay for delivery fees when I order online?

No. WIC benefits pay only for the food itself, not for delivery or shipping costs. If a store offers delivery, you must pay the delivery fee with your own money or another payment method. In-store pickup is free and is the most common option available.

What happens if I order WIC food online but then change my mind?

Most stores allow you to cancel an order before it is picked or packed. Log into your account on the retailer's website and look for a cancel option. If you have already picked up the order, contact the store's customer service to ask about returns. WIC rules on returns vary by state, so check with your state WIC program if you are unsure.

Can I use WIC online if I do not have a computer or smartphone?

Some stores accept WIC orders by phone. Call the store's customer service number and ask if you can place a WIC order over the phone. They may be able to help you select items and arrange pickup. Your local WIC office may also have resources or staff who can help you place an online order if you need assistance.

Do I still get the same amount of WIC benefits if I shop online instead of in person?

Yes. Your WIC benefits do not change based on how you shop. Whether you buy groceries in the store or online, you have the same monthly allowance for each food category. Online shopping is just a different way to spend the same benefits.

What if my state does not have online WIC shopping yet?

Many states are still adding online retailers to their programs. Check your state WIC website or call your local WIC office to learn about online shopping will be available soon. In the meantime, you can shop in person at any authorized WIC retailer in your area.