The WIC program provides supplemental nutritious foods, health screenings, nutrition assessments, nutrition education for optimal growth and development, and referrals for other services. See how WIC has impacted families in Illinois here.
Who is eligible for WIC? How do I know if I qualify?
Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding (up to one year), or non-breastfeeding postpartum (up to 6 months)
Infants and children under the age of 5
The USDA’s WIC PreScreening Tool can help assist in determining if you may be eligible for WIC services. Please note this is not an application for WIC benefits.
What do I need to bring to my WIC appointment?
New applicants and participants returning for WIC certification appointments will need to bring documentation to verify their income, residency and identity. Electronic documentation may be accepted during or prior to your scheduled appointment.
Active participants attending a nutrition education appointment should bring their yellow WIC ID book.
What kind of foods are available to purchase with WIC benefits?
WIC benefits may be used on nutritious foods like eggs, peanut butter, beans, milk, cheese, bread, rice, cereals, fruits, vegetables, and 100% juice. A full list of current authorized Illinois WIC foods can be found here.
What kinds of breastfeeding assistance do you provide?
Additional Food Benefits
WIC supports breastfeeding as the recommended choice for infant feeding. Breastfeeding families receive extra food benefits to assist with the increased nutritional demands of breastfeeding.
Education and counseling
WIC can help you in all stages of breastfeeding. Preparing to start your breastfeeding journey? Planning to return to work? Just need a support system? Our baby-friendly staff is here to help! Our breastfeeding peer counselor can also provide support via text or phone outside of usual clinic hours!
Breastfeeding Supplies
WIC families have access to additional supplies to help them on their breastfeeding journey, including manual and electric breast pumps, nipple shields and shells, and milk storage bags.
Where can I use my WIC EBT card?
Your WIC EBT card can be used at any authorized WIC vendor site in Illinois. Click here to see a list of local approved sites.
What if I lose my WIC EBT card?
If your card is lost, stolen or damaged, call eWIC Customer Service at 1-833-916-1509 or long on to www.mybnft.com or the BNFT app to cancel your card. You will also need to call the WIC office to receive a replacement card.
I can’t access my BNFT app. What should I do?
If you are having issues accessing your BNFT app, please review this troubleshooting document. If the issue persists, or if your issue is related to a phone number/email address change, please call your nearest WIC office.
What is the WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP)?
The WIC FMNP is available for eligible WIC participants. It provides additional benefits that can be used to purchase eligible foods from authorized farmers, farmers markets, or roadside stands.
