Ultimate Guide: Does Dollar General Take WIC?
Dollar General is a popular store chain, known for offering low prices on everyday items like food, baby goods, and more. In fact, Dollar General had more store locations than any other retailer in the U.S in 2023.
Ever wondered, does Dollar General take WIC? Or maybe you shop there regularly and want to know if you can use your WIC benefits to save more? Or perhaps you’ve heard that some stores accept WIC, but you’re not sure which ones? Either way, this post is for you.
1. Does Dollar General Take WIC?
Each state WIC agency independently authorizes retailers to accept WIC. Not all Dollar General stores are authorized WIC vendors. In fact, many Dollar General stores do not accept WIC benefits.
Between 2007 and 2024, Dollar General more than doubled its store count, growing to over 20,000 nationwide. More than 5,000 Dollar General stores offered fresh produce as of 2024. Despite these, a large number of locations still do not participate in WIC.
This might be largely due to strict state-level rules determining which retailers can be authorized as WIC vendors. Full-service grocery stores with a wide variety of WIC-eligible foods, such as Walmart and Safeway, may be prioritized in several states.
Even when a Dollar General store is authorized, shopping for WIC items can be hard. Federal rules control which foods and how much participants receive, while states decide which brands, package sizes, and product forms are allowed.
As discussed above, many Dollar General stores do not accept WIC benefits, but some locations may. To see if your local Dollar General accepts WIC, use your state WIC store locator, usually available on the official state WIC website. Most of these locators let you search by ZIP code, city, or store name and will show a list or map of authorized retailers.
Besides, you can also call your local WIC office and ask for help finding WIC-approved stores near you. Or call the store directly – this is often one of the fastest ways. Also, you can use WIC mobile apps (available in some states) that list nearby WIC vendors.
>>> Read more: SNAP vs. WIC – The Real Difference Between These Nutrition Support Programs?
2. What Are the Advantages of Shopping at Dollar General Using WIC?
Many Dollar General stores are placed in small towns or areas that don’t have easy access to supermarkets.
Dollar General stores are compact and easy to shop, offering a wide range of items like milk, cereal, baby formula, and canned goods. You’ll also find famous brands as well as Dollar General’s affordable private labels like Clover Valley and DG Baby.
If you’re a busy parent or caregiver, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to find what you need in stores. Dollar General focuses on low prices, helping customers save money on everyday needs.
If you can use your WIC benefits at a Dollar General near you, take it; it can make everyday shopping more affordable and less stressful.
3. How to Shop with WIC at Dollar General (If Accepted)
Once you’re at an approved store, follow these steps to make the most of your WIC benefits:
- Before you go shopping, review your current WIC balance.
- As you shop, look for shelf tags or labels that show which items are WIC-approved. If there are no labels, refer to your state’s WIC food guide to double-check. Each state has its own list of foods that are approved for purchase with WIC benefits. Only eligible items will be covered by your benefits at checkout.
- Swipe or insert your WIC EBT card. It’s a good idea to separate your WIC items from your non-WIC items to make the transaction go more smoothly. Any non-WIC items will need to be paid for using another form of payment.
- Check your receipt to confirm which items were covered and see your remaining WIC balance.
4. Free Lifeline Phones for WIC Users (California Only)
Dollar General isn’t the only place to use your WIC benefits. You can also shop with WIC at Target, Walgreens, and Walmart (even for online orders), depending on your state. And did you know? As a WIC participant, you may be eligible for even more benefits beyond just access to nutritious foods.
If you’re living in California, you may qualify for a free phone through the California Lifeline Program. If you or someone in your household is enrolled in at least one of the certain assistance programs, such as WIC, Medi-Cal, and CalFresh, you could be eligible for Lifeline benefits. These may include discounts on phone or internet service, as well as a free device from participating providers.
You can apply through AirTalk Wireless, which offers California Lifeline service, to receive a discounted or free smartphone, tablet, or even smartwatches. The process generally involves:
- Visit the AirTalk Wireless website. Enter your ZIP code.
- Choose a LifeLine plan.
- Select a free phone.
- Upload your eligibility documents (especially important in California, where automatic verification is less common).
- Submit your application online.
>>> Read more: WIC Free Phone: How To Apply & Best Options For 2025
FAQs
Does Dollar General have baby formula?
Dollar General offers a selection of baby formulas, including Similac. They also carry budget-friendly store-brand alternatives. Product availability can vary by store.
Does Dollar General take WIC in KY?
To be sure, call your local Dollar General directly or use the state’s WIC store locator to see which specific stores are authorized.
What’s the difference between Dollar General and Dollar General Market?
The main difference is the size of the store and the selection of groceries, especially fresh food offerings. Dollar General Market stores offer a wider selection of fresh foods, including produce, dairy, frozen items, and fresh meats. While all stores carry everyday essential items, DG Market stores provide an expanded grocery selection.
How do I know if my Dollar General takes WIC?
Does Dollar General take WIC near me? Call the store directly or use your state’s WIC-approved store locator.
Can I use SNAP or EBT at Dollar General?
While most locations do not accept WIC, many Dollar General stores accept SNAP/EBT cards, both in-store and for online orders through DoorDash.
What if Dollar General doesn’t take WIC near me?
No worries, you still have many options. Use your state’s WIC store locator to find approved retailers nearby, such as Walmart, Target, or local grocery stores. Many Walmart stores accept WIC for in-store purchases, and while Target accepts WIC too, participation can vary depending on your state and store location.
>>> Read more: Does Dollhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6z3Moqy7f9E&pp=0gcJCdAJAYcqIYzvar Tree Take EBT? What To Know Before You Shop
Conclusion
How you use your WIC benefits at Dollar General depends on your location, your local store’s policies, and how WIC is implemented in your state. Our top tip to you would be to diversify where you shop. Don’t rely on just one store. Use your WIC benefits across multiple approved locations near you, like Walmart and Target.
