If you’re a WIC participant looking for convenient shopping options, you may be wondering about major retailers that support the program. One common question shopper often ask is “Does Target accept WIC?”.
The good news is that many Target locations across the United States are authorized to participate in the WIC program, allowing eligible customers to purchase essential, approved food items using with their WIC benefits. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about shopping at Target with WIC, from eligibility to product selection.
1. Does Target Accept WIC?
To answer the question many people across the United States ask, “Does Target Accept WIC?”. Yes, Target does accept WIC, but availability depends on the specific store location, as not every branch across the country is enrolled in the program.
Continue reading below to better understand the relationship between Target and WIC, and the benefits you can receive from this collaboration.
What is WIC?
WIC, short for Women, Infants, and Children, is a federally funded support program serving eligible families throughout the United States, that provides nutritional support to qualifying families.
It provides essential foods, nutritional counseling, and healthcare support for low-income pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and young children. The program aims to ensure the health and full development of some of the most vulnerable individuals in society.
What is Target?
Target ranks among the biggest retail companies in the U.S., boasting an extensive presence with stores spread across the entire country.
It offers a wide variety of everyday consumer goods, from groceries and household products to personal care and baby essentials. Target is recognized for its family-friendly approach, affordable prices, and excellent customer service.
The relationship between Target and WIC
Many Target locations are officially authorized to participate in the WIC program. This means that customers can use their WIC EBT card to purchase WIC-approved items at eligible Target stores.
If you’ve ever wondered, “does Target accept WIC near me?”, there are several ways to find out:
- Visit your state’s WIC website
- Ask directly at the store
- Or call the Target customer service number: 1-800-440-0680
These steps will help you confirm WIC acceptance at your local Target and ensure a smooth shopping experience.
Why should WIC users shop at Target?
Using WIC benefits at Target offers many advantages:
- Convenience: Target has a wide network of stores, and many locations include pharmacies and maternal care services.
- Product variety: You can easily find WIC-approved items with multiple brand options.
- Friendly service: Target employees are often trained to assist WIC customers, making the checkout process smoother and more efficient.
These benefits come from Target’s collaboration with local health agencies to ensure the WIC program is implemented effectively, helping families easily access the nutritious foods they need.
2. What Can You Buy with WIC at Target?
When shopping at Target with WIC benefits, it’s essential to know exactly which products are eligible and which are not eligible for, to ensure a smooth and successful checkout. Below are the details to guide you.
Eligible WIC products at Target
Target stocks a diverse selection of products eligible under the WIC program, all compliant with both federal and state nutrition guidelines.
While the approved list may vary slightly by state, in general, you can use your WIC benefits at Target to purchase:
- Infant formula (e.g., Similac, Enfamil, specific types approved by your state)
- Milk (whole, 2%, skim, depending on participant’s category)
- Cheese
- Eggs
- Whole grains (brown rice, whole wheat bread, tortillas)
- Fruits and vegetables (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- Peanut butter
- Cereal (iron-fortified, low sugar)
- Juice (100% fruit or vegetable juice, often in specific container sizes)
(*) For example, if you’re wondering Does Target accept WIC for baby formula, the answer is yes, but only for brands and sizes authorized by your state’s WIC program. Always check your WIC shopping guide or use an app like myWIC to scan the product in-store and confirm eligibility.
Target makes it relatively easy for WIC participants to shop, especially at locations that clearly label WIC-approved items on shelves or provide digital tools for verification.
>>> Read more: Food Stamps, SNAP vs EBT: What’s The Difference?
Products you cannot buy with WIC
Although WIC helps cover many essential food items, there are strict limitations on what cannot be purchased. You cannot use WIC at Target to buy:
- Meat or poultry (unless included in state-specific packages)
- Seafood
- Snacks (chips, cookies, candy)
- Soda or sugary drinks
- Prepared or hot foods
- Organic versions of approved foods (unless explicitly allowed)
- Supplements or vitamins
- Non-food items (e.g., diapers, toiletries, paper products)
- Items listed under WIC that don’t meet brand or size requirements are not eligible for purchase.
These restrictions exist to ensure that WIC funds are used strictly for nutritionally necessary items that support the health of pregnant women, infants, and young children.
To avoid confusion, it’s always best to consult your state’s WIC food list, use a product scanner app, or ask a store associate for assistance.
3. WIC Participants in California May Qualify for Lifeline
If you are a WIC participant living in California, you may be eligible for Lifeline, a federal assistance program that provides discounted or even free phone and internet services to low-income individuals and families.
Overview of Lifeline program
Funded by the government and managed by the FCC, Lifeline helps ensure that essential phone and internet access is within reach for those with limited income. It is designed to ensure that low-income Americans have access to essential communication services at affordable rates.
Participation in certain government assistance programs, including WIC (Women, Infants, and Children), in certain states, automatically qualifies you for the Lifeline program.
This means that if you are already approved for WIC in California, you do not need to meet additional income verification requirements to apply for Lifeline.
This benefit is especially helpful for families who need reliable phone or internet service to:
- Schedule doctor or WIC appointments
- Apply for jobs or educational programs
- Stay connected with community support services
- Access telehealth and childcare resources
A trusted Lifeline provider in California
AirTalk Wireless has earned a strong reputation in California for its dependable service and active role in delivering Lifeline program benefits.
Through its collaboration with the Lifeline initiative, AirTalk Wireless provides qualifying individuals access to the following services:
- A free smartphone from leading brands
- Unlimited talk and text
- Up to 15GB of high-speed data
- Nationwide coverage on a reliable network
- Free international calling to over 200 countries and territories
AirTalk also makes it easy to apply online, check your eligibility, and track your order directly through their website. This streamlined process helps WIC participants take advantage of Lifeline benefits without complicated paperwork.
>>> To apply for Lifeline and get a chance to receive free communication devices like phones, tablets, and bundled service plans, visit https://airtalkwireless.com and click “Apply Now”.
4. FAQs
Does Target accept WIC in Texas?
Yes, many Target stores in Texas are authorized to accept WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) benefits. For instance, the Target store located at 135 Creekside Way, New Braunfels, TX is listed among WIC-approved vendors in Comal County. Similarly, the Target store at 9500 S. IH 35, Suite G, Austin, TX is recognized as a WIC-approved vendor in the Austin area.
However, it’s important to note that not all Target locations in Texas participate in the WIC program. WIC authorization depends on various factors, including store size, inventory capacity, and compliance with state regulations. Therefore, it’s advisable to verify the WIC acceptance status of your local Target store before shopping.
Does Target take Apple pay?
Target accepts Apple Pay at all of its retail locations across the United States. You can use Apple Pay for in-store purchases by holding your iPhone or Apple Watch near the contactless reader at checkout. Target also supports Apple Pay in the Target app, making it easy to shop and pay securely both in-store and online.
Final Words
All the information provided above has surely given you a clear and accurate answer to the question “Does Target accept WIC“. Take full advantage of your WIC benefits by shopping at Target for nutritious, approved items that support your family’s health. Don’t forget to check your nearest store’s WIC participation status and start enjoying a convenient shopping experience today.