The Minnesota WIC Program provides foundational nutritional support to families across the state. This valuable resource is tailored for expecting mothers, nursing parents, and anyone raising young children. Learning about MN's WIC services helps you access all available benefits for your family's well-being.

We will walk through everything you need to know. This guide covers WIC eligibility requirements, the application process, and how to shop with your benefits. We will also explain how WIC works alongside other state programs like SNAP.

What is the Minnesota WIC Program?

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) provides healthy food and support services. In Minnesota, the Department of Health administers the program, which began in Pine County in 1974. It now serves families in all 87 counties through local health agencies.

Participation in WIC is linked to better health for families. Studies show it leads to fewer premature births and healthier babies. Children on WIC often have improved diets and are better prepared for school, setting a foundation for long-term wellness.

Benefits Available Through Minnesota WIC

• Supplemental food assistance: Participants receive monthly benefits on an eWIC card to buy specific healthy foods like milk, eggs, and fresh produce. This card works like a debit card at authorized grocery stores.

• Personalized nutrition services: Registered dietitians and nutritionists offer one-on-one counseling. They provide guidance on healthy eating for pregnancy, breastfeeding, and your child’s growth stages.

• Health assessments and screenings: WIC provides regular health check-ins for participants. This includes monitoring growth, checking iron levels, and providing referrals to doctors or dentists when needed.

• Breastfeeding support: The program offers counseling from peer counselors and lactation consultants. Participants can also get help with breast pumps and access resources to support their breastfeeding goals.

• Community connections and referrals: WIC connects families to other helpful services. These can include immunizations, childcare assistance, medical and dental care, and other community support programs.

WIC Eligibility for Minnesota WIC

WIC is designed to support Minnesota families from many backgrounds. The eligibility requirements are often broader than people realize, so it is always worth checking if your family qualifies for these valuable nutritional benefits.

Who Qualifies for Minnesota WIC

• Pregnant individuals

• Postpartum individuals, for up to six months after giving birth

• Breastfeeding parents, for up to one year after delivery

• Infants and children until their fifth birthday

Caregivers other than mothers can apply for children. Fathers, grandparents, foster parents, and legal guardians are all encouraged to apply for WIC on behalf of a child in their care.

Minnesota WIC Income Requirements

To qualify, your household’s gross income must be at or below 185% of the U.S. Poverty Income Guidelines. Your income is checked before taxes are taken out.

You are automatically income-eligible for WIC if you or a family member participates in SNAP, Medicaid, or the Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP).

When determining your household size, be sure to count your unborn baby. For example, a pregnant person with no other children is considered a household of two.

Nutritional Risk Assessment

Applicants also complete a health and diet screening with WIC staff. This is not a test but a way to identify any nutritional risks and personalize your benefits.

The assessment may include height and weight measurements and a simple finger-prick blood test to check for anemia. You will also discuss your family’s eating habits and health history.

This screening helps WIC staff provide the best support. Most applicants who meet the income rules are also found to have a nutritional need that WIC can address.

How to Apply for WIC in Minnesota

Applying for WIC in Minnesota starts with contacting your local WIC clinic. You can find your nearest clinic through the MN Department of Health. The first step is to schedule an appointment. In some cases, you may be able to get certified and receive benefits on the same day.

Required Documentation for Your Minnesota WIC Appointment

You will need to bring documents to your first appointment to verify your eligibility. It is best to gather these papers ahead of time. You will need proof for yourself and any infant or child you are applying for.

• Proof of Identity: Bring a valid ID for each person applying. This can include a driver’s license, state ID, birth certificate, passport, or hospital records.

• Proof of Minnesota Residency: You must show you live in MN. A utility bill, lease agreement, recent mail with your name and address, or a driver's license with your current address are all acceptable.

• Income Documentation: If you are not on SNAP, Medicaid, or MFIP, you must provide proof of income. Bring recent pay stubs, a letter from your employer, or self-employment records.

The Minnesota WIC Application Process

Your WIC appointment will involve several steps to complete your enrollment. A WIC staff member will guide you through the entire process, which typically takes about an hour.

1. Complete Application: You will fill out the application form with help from WIC staff.

2. Nutritional Assessment: A staff member will conduct a health and diet screening. This helps identify nutritional needs for you and your children.

3. Nutrition Education: You will receive information and resources on healthy eating. This is tailored to your family’s specific needs and goals.

4. Package Assignment: Based on the assessment, you will be assigned a specific food package.

5. eWIC Card Issuance: You will receive your eWIC card and learn how to use it at authorized stores.

Maintaining Your Minnesota WIC Benefits

To continue receiving benefits, you must participate in follow-up appointments every two to three months. These appointments include required nutrition education, which can often be completed online or over the phone. You will also need to complete a recertification appointment periodically to confirm your eligibility.

• Pregnant individuals: Certified for the duration of their pregnancy.

• Breastfeeding parents: Certified for up to one year postpartum.

• Non-breastfeeding postpartum: Certified for up to six months after giving birth.

• Infants and children: Certified for six months to one year at a time, until their fifth birthday.

Reporting Changes to Minnesota WIC

You must inform your WIC clinic about certain life changes, as they can affect your eligibility or benefits. Contact your local office if any of the following occur.

• Your address or phone number changes.

• You become pregnant.

• A new baby or child joins your household.

• Your breastfeeding status changes.

• Your household income changes significantly.

• You start or stop receiving SNAP, Medicaid, or MFIP.