Step 1: Register the Card
To register the card, call the customer service number listed on the back of the card. In most states, activating your WIC card is as simple as activating a debit card. Call the activation number and follow the instructions. However, procedures can vary by state. For example, in some locations, you may need to visit the WIC office to activate the card and set your PIN. Some states also allow activation via a website or mobile app.
Since the same card is used each month, you only need to activate it once. Although benefits are provided monthly, a new card is not issued each time.
If you re-enroll in the program after a break, your WIC clinic will inform you whether to keep using your existing card or activate a new one.
Step 2: Set a 4-Digit PIN
You must choose a 4-digit PIN before you can use your card. Select a number that’s easy for you to remember but hard for others to guess. Avoid obvious choices like your birthdate or simple combinations like 1234 or 0000.
You may be asked for basic information, such as your date of birth and mailing address zip code, when setting up your PIN.
Once the PIN is set, your card is ready to use.
Step 3: Safeguard Your PIN
Keep your PIN private. If someone else uses your card without permission, those benefits are not refundable. Don’t share your PIN with anyone unless you fully trust them, such as a spouse. Avoid writing your PIN on the card or keeping it in your wallet or purse.
If you suspect someone else knows your PIN, call the card’s customer service number immediately to reset it.
Using Your WIC Card
Step 1: Check Your Balance
Before making any purchases, verify your card balance. The easiest way is by calling the EBT customer service number on the back of your card. You can also check your balance through your state’s EBT website or mobile app. If you forget to check before shopping, a grocery store cashier can perform a balance inquiry for you.
You can also check your most recent receipt to see how much is left. Be aware of expiration dates—some states issue three months of benefits at once, which must be used within that time frame.
Step 2: Choose an Authorized Grocery Store
Your WIC clinic will give you a list of approved stores. Make sure to shop only at these locations, as WIC cards won’t work elsewhere. Don’t forget to bring your card with you—without it, you cannot access your benefits.
Step 3: Review Your WIC Shopping List
Go over your WIC shopping list to see what you’re eligible to buy. The list will include specific food items, quantities, and approved brands. This varies depending on how many qualifying children under age five are in your household and what benefits you receive.
Your balance reflects all items for your family. For instance, if two eligible children each receive two loaves of bread per month, your account will show four loaves.
Shop as needed—there’s no need to buy everything at once. Just remember to use your benefits before they expire, as they won’t carry over to the next month.
Step 4: Inform the Cashier
Let the cashier know you’re using a WIC card before they start scanning items. Store procedures vary—some may require you to swipe the card before scanning, others after. Some stores will allow mixing WIC and non-WIC items in one transaction, while others require separate transactions.
When combining WIC and non-WIC items, swipe your WIC card first. Then use another payment method (cash, debit, SNAP, etc.) for any remaining balance.
Step 5: Check Your Receipt
Your receipt will show the remaining balance for each item category. For example, if you have credit for two dozen eggs and purchase one dozen, your receipt will show one dozen remaining. It will also include the expiration date for your benefits.
Keep your receipt to track your monthly balance.
Troubleshooting WIC Card Issues
Step 1: Call Customer Service If the Card Doesn’t Work
If your card isn’t functioning, call customer service immediately using the number on the back. They can assist in troubleshooting the issue or send you a new card.
Before calling, make sure you’re trying to purchase approved items and that your benefits are active.
Step 2: Report a Lost or Stolen Card
If your card is lost or stolen, notify your local WIC clinic right away. They can deactivate the card to prevent unauthorized use. Since benefits can’t be restored if someone else uses the card, prompt action is critical.
Your clinic can typically provide a new card within a few days. Any remaining benefits will be transferred to the new card.
Step 3: Reset a Forgotten PIN
If you forget your PIN, call the customer service number on the back of your card to reset it. Avoid guessing repeatedly—too many incorrect attempts can lock your card.
In some states, the card locks after four failed attempts (e.g., Nevada); in others, it locks after three (e.g., North Dakota). You may need to wait or call customer service to unlock it.
Step 4: Manual Entry If the Strip Is Damaged
If the magnetic strip is damaged, ask the cashier to manually enter the card number. However, you must still enter your PIN yourself. If this happens, request a replacement card as soon as possible.
Step 5: If Store EBT Systems Are Down, Return Later
Sometimes, store EBT machines experience outages. Since these systems are linked to the statewide WIC program, you won’t be able to use your card until the system is back online.
Unfortunately, you can’t take items and charge your WIC card later. Patience is key—store staff likely find the issue just as frustrating.
This guide ensures you’re equipped to activate, use, and troubleshoot your WIC card confidently and effectively.