Start with these core documents

To apply for WIC, you will need proof of identity, proof of income, and proof of residency. The program requires these three things in nearly every state because WIC verifies that you live in the state, earn below the income limit, and are who you say you are. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone usually will not work.

For identity, a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or tribal ID all work. If you do not have a photo ID, a birth certificate plus a utility bill or lease agreement together can establish who you are. Ask your local WIC office what they accept before you gather documents, because some offices have slightly different rules.

For income, bring recent pay stubs (usually the last 30 days), a tax return from the past year, or a letter from your employer stating your gross monthly income. If you are self-employed, bring tax returns for the past two years. If you receive unemployment, Social Security, child support, or other benefits, bring the award letter or benefit statement showing the monthly amount.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring proof of identity (driver's license or passport), proof of income (pay stubs or tax return), and proof of residency (utility bill or lease) to your WIC appointment.
  • Income limits vary by state and family size, so your local WIC office can tell you whether your household income qualifies before you apply.
  • You will need to bring your children's birth certificates and proof of their current address if they live with you.
  • Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail addressed to you at your current address.
  • Most offices let you bring documents by mail or email if you cannot visit in person, though some still require an in-person interview.

Proof of residency and address

WIC requires proof that you live in the state where you are applying. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) in your name dated within the past 60 days is the standard document. A lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or government mail (tax notice, voter registration card, or benefit statement) also works.

The document must show your current address and your name. If you are homeless or living with someone else, tell the WIC office — many states have a process for people without a fixed address, and you may be able to use a shelter address, a friend's address, or a mailing address instead.

Information about your children

Bring your children's birth certificates to prove their age and identity. WIC covers children from birth through age 4, and the program needs to verify the exact birth date. A hospital birth certificate, state-issued birth certificate, or certified copy all work.

You will also need to provide each child's current height and weight. The WIC office will measure them at your appointment, so you do not need to bring measurements from home. If a child has a medical condition or takes medication, bring a list or the bottles themselves — the WIC nutritionist will review this during your visit.

Proof of pregnancy or postpartum status

If you are applying as a pregnant person, bring a letter from your doctor or midwife stating your due date. The letter should be dated within the past year. A hospital discharge summary after delivery also works if you are applying within six months of giving birth.

If you are breastfeeding, bring a letter from your doctor, midwife, or lactation consultant confirming that you are currently breastfeeding. Some offices accept a statement from you alone if you do not have a letter, but calling ahead to ask what your local office accepts will save you a trip.

Citizenship and immigration status

WIC requires proof of U.S. citizenship or may be able to access immigration status. A birth certificate, passport, naturalization certificate, or state ID showing citizenship all work. If you have a green card, bring it. If you have a work visa or other immigration document, bring that as well.

Some states also accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or a Social Security Number as proof of status. Ask your local WIC office which documents they accept, because rules vary by state. If you are unsure about your status or worried about sharing immigration information, call the office and ask — many offices have staff who speak your language and can explain what happens with the information you provide.

What to bring to your appointment

Bring all original documents or certified copies in a folder or envelope. Bring your Social Security Number or ITIN if you have one. Bring a list of any medications you or your children take, or bring the bottles themselves. Bring your children so they can be measured and weighed.

If you cannot attend in person, call your local WIC office and ask whether they can conduct the appointment by phone or video. Many offices now mail you forms to fill out and accept documents by email or mail, though some still require an in-person visit. Ask what your office's current process is before you gather everything.

Documents you do not need

You do not need to bring proof of other benefits you receive, such as SNAP or Medicaid, though having them can speed up the process. You do not need a referral from a doctor, though some offices accept one. You do not need to bring your children's medical records or vaccination records — the WIC office will ask you about your children's health history during the appointment, and you can answer from memory.

You do not need to have a bank account, own a car, or have a job. WIC does not check your credit or require collateral. You do not need to pay a fee to apply.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I do not have a birth certificate for my child?

Call your local WIC office and ask what documents they will accept instead. Some offices accept a hospital discharge summary, a Social Security card, or a school enrollment record. You can also order a birth certificate from your state's vital records office while you gather other documents — the process usually takes one to two weeks.

Can I apply if I do not have a Social Security Number?

Yes. WIC accepts an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or a state ID number instead. Bring whichever document you have. If you have none of these, ask your local office what alternative they accept — some offices have other ways to verify identity.

What if my income changes between when I apply and when I get approved?

Tell your WIC office about the change. If your income goes up and exceeds the limit, you may lose coverage. If it goes down, you may become covered or your benefits may increase. The office will recalculate based on your current income.

Do I need to bring my children to the appointment?

Yes, if you are applying for children. The WIC office needs to measure and weigh them and ask about their health history. If a child is sick or cannot attend, call ahead and ask whether you can reschedule or bring them later.

What if I do not have proof of residency?

Call your local WIC office and explain your situation. If you are homeless, living with family, or do not have a utility bill in your name, the office may accept a shelter address, a letter from someone you live with, or a government mail piece. Some offices are flexible about this requirement.