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Special supplemental nutrition program
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The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) is a preventive health and nutrition program that provides short term assistance to young families to promote optimal growth and development.
Who may be eligible for WIC services?
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You are eligible if you:
- Live in Washington State, and
- Are pregnant, a new mother, or a child under five years of age, and
- Meet the income guidelines below, and
- Have a medical or nutrition need.
Washington State Department of Health Statewide WIC Income Eligibility Standards (effective through March 31, 2009)
Eligibility for the program is based on gross monthly income and nutritional need. Your family may still be eligible even if you are working, a single parent or receiving Food Stamps.
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Household or Family Size*
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Maximum Gross Income Per Month**
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1
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$1,604
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2
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$2,159
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3
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$2,714
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4
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$3,269
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5
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$3,824
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6
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$4,379
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7
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$4,934
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8
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$5,489
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| For each additional member, add $278 |
*A household is defined as a group of related or non-related individuals, who usually, although not necessarily, are living together and share income.
**Gross income is income before taxes and deductions.
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| Annually |
Amount is based on total income received for 1 year |
| Monthly |
Income is received 1 time per month |
| Twice Monthly |
Income is received 2 times per month |
| Bi-Weekly |
Income is received every 2 weeks |
| Weekly |
Income is received every week |
- If you receive Medicaid or Healthy Options, you are automatically eligible for WIC even if your income is above these guidelines.
- Getting WIC does not affect your immigration status.
- If current income is reported as other than a monthly figure, the following calculations can be made if necessary:
| 1. |
Monthly Income Equals
- Weekly income x 4.3
- Biweekly income (every two weeks) x 2.15
- Semi-monthly income (twice a month) x 2
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| 2. |
Annual Income Equals
- Weekly income x 52
- Biweekly income (every two weeks) x 26
- Semi-monthly income (twice a month) x 24
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What are the benefits of WIC?
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- Nutrition and health assessment
- Nutrition education
- Breastfeeding counseling
- Checks for specific nutritious foods
- Health and social referrals
- Access to medical care assistance
Where are WIC services provided?
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Use WithinReach's zipcode-based WIC Clinic search tool.
How are WIC foods provided?
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- Many local grocery stores and some pharmacies accept WIC checks.
- WIC checks are valued at approximately $45 per month and are exchanged for nutritious foods.
- Foods that are high in protein, calcium, iron, or vitamins A & C such as:
- Milk
- Peanut butter
- 100% fruit juice with vitamin C
- Cheeses
- Dried peas and beans
- Cereals fortified with iron
- Eggs
- Iron fortified baby formula (for babies who are not breastfed)
- Tuna and carrots for women fully breastfeeding with babies
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