Target does accept WIC in most states, but not all Target locations participate, and acceptance varies by state program rules
Target is an approved WIC retailer in many states, but you need to check your specific state's list before you shop. Some states include Target; others do not. Even in states where Target participates, not every Target location may be authorized — some stores opt out. Your state WIC program publishes a current list of approved retailers, usually on their website or through a phone line you can call.
WIC benefits work differently at Target than they do at smaller grocers. Target's point-of-sale system is set up to process WIC transactions, but the store must be registered with your state program. When you check out, the cashier will need to ring up only the items your WIC benefits cover — you cannot mix WIC and non-WIC purchases in a single transaction at most retailers, including Target.
The items you can buy are set by your state, not by Target. Approved foods typically include milk, cheese, eggs, beans, peanut butter, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Some states allow more variety than others. Target will have the same restrictions as any other WIC retailer in your state.
Key Takeaways
- Check your state WIC program's website or call their hotline to confirm whether Target locations near you are authorized retailers.
- Not all Target stores participate in WIC, even in states where the company is an approved vendor.
- You can only purchase WIC-approved foods at Target, and you must ring them up separately from any other items you are buying.
- Your state program determines which foods are covered, not Target — the same rules apply at Target as at any other WIC store.
How to learn about your local Target takes WIC
Your state WIC program maintains a list of all authorized retailers. This list is updated regularly as stores join or leave the program. To find it, start by searching "[your state] WIC authorized retailers" or "[your state] WIC store locator." Most state programs have this information on their website.
If you cannot find the list online, call your state WIC program directly. The number is usually on your WIC card or on the state health department website. Staff can tell you which Target locations in your area are authorized and whether there are other nearby stores you can use. Some states also have a text or phone number you can use to check a specific store before you go.
Do not assume a Target accepts WIC just because the company is listed as a vendor in your state. Call the individual store or check the state list by address. A Target in one town may participate while another Target 20 miles away does not.
What WIC items you can buy at Target
Target stocks most WIC-approved foods, but the exact items depend on your state's program rules. Common approved categories include low-fat or fat-free milk, yogurt, cheese, eggs, canned beans, peanut butter, whole grain bread, brown rice, oatmeal, canned fruits and vegetables, and fresh produce. Some states also cover infant formula, baby food, and cereal.
Your WIC card or benefits statement will show you which specific items and brands are covered in your state. Prices and brands change, so what was approved last month may not be this month. When you shop, look for items marked as WIC-approved in the store, or ask a cashier if you are unsure whether something qualifies.
Target's self-checkout systems typically do not process WIC benefits — you will need to go through a regular checkout lane with a cashier who can process the transaction correctly. This is true at most large retailers.
How to use your WIC benefits at Target
Bring your WIC card and a photo ID to Target. At checkout, tell the cashier you are paying with WIC. The cashier will ring up only the WIC-approved items separately from anything else you are buying. You cannot combine WIC and non-WIC purchases in one transaction.
The cashier will swipe or insert your WIC card into the payment terminal, just like a debit card. You may be asked to enter your PIN. The system will check whether your benefits cover the items you selected and deduct the cost from your WIC balance. If you have money left over on your card after this purchase, you can use it on another shopping trip.
If an item does not ring up as WIC-approved, the cashier will let you know. You can remove it from your purchase or pay for it separately with another payment method. This happens most often with items that look like they should be covered but are not — for example, some states cover only certain brands of whole grain bread, or only fresh produce, not frozen.
What to do if Target is not an authorized WIC retailer in your area
If your state's list does not include Target, or if no Target locations near you participate, you have other options. Most states authorize a mix of large supermarkets, smaller grocery stores, and farmers markets. Check your state's full retailer list to see what is available in your neighborhood.
Some states allow you to use WIC benefits at farmers markets through a special program. Others authorize stores like Walmart, Kroger, Safeway, or local independent grocers. The variety depends on your state and region. Your state WIC program can tell you which stores are closest to you and which ones carry the widest selection of approved foods.
If you have questions about why a particular store is not authorized, or if you think a store should be added to the program, you can contact your state WIC office. They sometimes add new retailers based on community requests, though the decision depends on the store's willingness to participate and meet program requirements.
WIC card balance and purchase limits at Target
Your WIC benefits come with a monthly balance for each food category — milk, vegetables, fruits, proteins, and so on. The amount varies based on your family size and composition. When you make a purchase at Target, the cost is deducted from the relevant category. For example, if you buy milk, the cost comes out of your milk balance.
You cannot roll over unused benefits from one month to the next in most states. If you do not spend your full balance by the end of the month, it resets. Some states allow a small carryover, but this is uncommon. Plan your shopping to use your benefits before the month ends.
Target does not set limits on how much you can spend per trip — your WIC card will simply stop working once you have used your monthly balance. You can make multiple shopping trips throughout the month as long as you have money left in each category.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use WIC at Target to buy items for someone else in my family?
Yes, as long as the items are WIC-approved and the person receiving them is listed on your WIC case. You cannot use WIC benefits to buy food for someone outside your household or someone not on your WIC authorization. The cashier may ask who the food is for, and you should answer honestly.
What happens if I try to buy something that is not WIC-approved at Target?
The item will not ring up as WIC-covered, and the cashier will tell you it is not approved. You can pay for it with cash, a debit card, or another payment method, or you can leave it behind. You cannot use your WIC card for non-approved items.
Do I need to show my WIC card every time I shop at Target?
Yes, you must present your WIC card at checkout. The cashier needs to swipe or insert it to process the transaction. Do not leave home without it, or you will not be able to use your benefits that day.
Can I use my WIC benefits online at Target.com?
Most states do not allow WIC benefits to be used for online orders at Target or any other retailer. WIC is designed for in-person shopping at authorized stores. Check your state's rules or call your WIC program to confirm whether online shopping is an option in your area.
What if the Target cashier does not know how to process WIC?
Ask to speak to a manager or a cashier who has processed WIC before. Target employees should be trained on WIC transactions, but mistakes happen. If the store repeatedly has problems processing WIC, you can report it to your state WIC program. You can also shop at a different authorized retailer where staff are more familiar with the process.