WIC items at Target stores make it easier than ever for program participants to access nutritious and essential foods. The comprehensive guide below will help you quickly locate the nearest Target store that carries WIC-approved products, along with tips to help you maximize your benefits while saving both time and money.
1. List of WIC Items at Target
What can you buy with WIC?
The WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) program provides eligible families with access to essential nutrition through a selection of approved food items. When shopping at Target, WIC participants can choose from a broad range of WIC approved items at Target, depending on their state guidelines and individual benefits.
Generally, WIC benefits cover the following categories:
- Infant formula and baby foods: Target stocks a variety of infant formulas and WIC-eligible baby cereals, fruits, vegetables, and meats for infants.
- Milk and dairy products: This includes cow’s milk (whole, low-fat, or fat-free, depending on age and dietary needs), cheese, and yogurt that meets WIC criteria.
- Whole grains: Items like whole wheat bread, brown rice, corn tortillas, and whole grain pasta are available as WIC approved items at Target.
- Fruits and vegetables: Fresh, frozen, and canned options are widely available, with many qualifying under WIC benefits.
- Cereal: Both hot and cold cereals are included, as long as they meet the nutritional standards set by the program.
- Juice: 100% fruit or vegetable juice, in specific sizes and containers, is also covered.
- Eggs, peanut butter, dried or canned beans: These are protein-rich staples that WIC supports to encourage healthy eating habits.
It’s important to remember that WIC approved items at Target can vary slightly depending on your state’s WIC-approved product list.
Always refer to your local agency or WIC shopping app to confirm item eligibility before heading to checkout.
- For example, if you’re in Texas and looking for an answer to “What can I buy with WIC in Texas?”, you’ll find that the list of WIC-approved items may include lactose-free milk, powdered milk, and evaporated milk, as well as whole grain options like corn tortillas and whole wheat pasta. For detailed information, you can refer to the Texas WIC Shopping Guide at texaswic.org.
- Similarly, if you’re a resident of Tennessee wondering “What does WIC cover in TN?”, you’ll find that the WIC program in Tennessee includes a wide variety of approved food items such as breakfast cereals, milk and yogurt, cheese, eggs, peanut butter, beans and brown rice, and more.
How to identify WIC-eligible items in-store
Shopping for WIC items at Target is easier than ever, thanks to clear labeling systems and digital tools. Here’s how you can quickly and confidently identify WIC approved items at Target while shopping in-store:
- Look for WIC shelf tags: Many Target stores mark WIC-approved products with dedicated tags or labels on shelves. These may say “WIC Approved” or use a symbol approved by the state’s WIC agency.
- Use your state’s WIC shopping app: Apps like MyWIC let you scan barcodes in real-time to verify if a product is WIC-eligible in your state. This is especially helpful if you’re unsure about a new brand or item.
- Check the packaging details: Approved items usually have specific size, brand, or type requirements. For example, cheese may need to be in 16 oz blocks, or juice may only qualify in 64 oz bottles. Double-check your benefits list before placing items in your cart.
- Ask for help: Don’t hesitate to ask a Target store associate or your local WIC office if you’re uncertain. They’re trained to assist WIC participants and help you find exactly what qualifies.
By understanding how to spot WIC approved items at Target, you’ll make your shopping trips smoother and ensure every item you select is covered by your WIC benefits.
>>> Also read: Does Target Accept WIC? What You Need To Know
2. Does Target Accept WIC in California?
Yes, Target accepts WIC in California. Most Target stores, especially those with full-service grocery sections, allow eligible WIC participants in California to purchase approved food items using their WIC EBT card.
California is one of the most populous states in the United States, and as such, its WIC program is strong and widely supported across many retail chains, including major locations like Target. This makes it easier for families to access nutritious food options in-store, using government assistance with minimal barriers.
How does WIC work at Target in California?
When shopping at Target in California, WIC participants can use their California WIC Card to purchase WIC-approved food items. However, it’s important to note:
- Not all Target stores accept WIC, only those with authorized grocery departments. You can confirm WIC eligibility by checking with your local store or using the official WIC store locator: myfamily.wic.ca.gov.
- WIC-approved items are usually marked with shelf labels or signage to help you easily identify them.
- Self-checkout lanes may not support WIC transactions, so it’s best to check out with a cashier to ensure your WIC card is processed correctly.
How to qualify and apply for WIC in California?
Eligibility for WIC in California depends on residency, income level, and nutritional risk. You may qualify if you:
- Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or recently gave birth
- Have an infant or child under 5 years old
- Meet the income guidelines (at or below 185% of the federal poverty level)
- Are a resident of California
To apply for WIC in California:
Visit my family.wic.ca.gov and fill out a simple interest form.
You will be contacted to schedule an appointment at a local WIC agency. At your appointment, bring:
- Proof of identity
- Proof of California address
- Proof of income or participation in other programs like Medi-Cal, CalFresh, or TANF
Once approved, you’ll receive the California WIC Card, which you can use at authorized stores like Target.
3. Tips for Shopping WIC at Target Effectively
These practical tips will help you maximize your benefits, avoid payment issues, and save time when using your WIC card.
Plan ahead with the WIC shopping list
- Before heading to Target, review your current WIC balance and the list of eligible items. Use your state’s WIC App to check what you are allowed to purchase and whether you have already used certain benefits for the month.
- You can also download your state’s official WIC Food List in PDF format or request a printed version from your WIC agency. Knowing exactly which brands, sizes, and product types are approved will help you avoid confusion at checkout.
Double check store participation
- Not all Target locations are WIC-authorized. To avoid wasting a trip, use the WIC store locator on your state’s WIC website or app to find nearby Target stores that accept WIC.
- You can also call your local Target store ahead of time and ask whether they accept WIC EBT and if they have a full grocery department.
Combine WIC with store promotions
- While WIC cannot be used to purchase promotional or non-WIC items, you can still take advantage of Target’s sales, Circle deals, and manufacturer coupons to save on the rest of your shopping trip.
- First, pay for your WIC items using your WIC EBT card, then complete a second transaction for any non-WIC products you wish to buy using Target discounts, gift cards, or personal coupons.
Combining WIC with store promotions helps you stretch your grocery budget without violating WIC rules.
>>> Read more: How To Get A Free iPhone In 2025: Real Options That Work
4. WIC Participants in California May Qualify for Lifeline
This is an additional benefit available to many WIC participants in California, you may qualify for free or discounted phone and internet services through the federal Lifeline program. In today’s increasingly digital world, this benefit is truly essential for maintaining important life connections.
If you’ve already been approved for WIC, you are typically automatically eligible for the Lifeline program. This means you won’t need to submit additional proof of income or enrollment in other benefit programs.
What is the Lifeline program?
Lifeline is a long-standing federal assistance program funded by the U.S. government and overseen by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The program’s goal is simple to help low-income individuals and families, including those already enrolled in WIC in California, access affordable phone and internet services.
This benefit helps eliminate communication barriers for low-income households, enabling them to:
- Schedule healthcare or WIC appointments
- Apply for jobs or training programs
- Stay connected with community and family support
- Use telehealth services or online education for children
A leading Lifeline provider
One of the most trusted names providing Lifeline services is AirTalk Wireless. The benefits they offer to WIC participants include:
- A free smartphone from top brands
- Unlimited talk and text
- Up to 15GB of high-speed data
- Reliable nationwide network coverage
- Free international calling to over 200 countries and territories
Best of all, applying for Lifeline through AirTalk Wireless is simple. No complicated paperwork is required. You can easily check your eligibility, apply online, and track your device order right through their website.
>>> Visit AirTalk Wireless and click “Apply Now” to begin the application process.
Final Words
With a clear understanding of WIC items at Target and how to shop effectively, you can make the most of your WIC benefits while ensuring your family has access to nutritious, essential foods. Take advantage of store promotions, stay informed about program updates, and explore eligible products at your local Target today.
Start planning your next WIC shopping trip and maximize your savings; your healthy shopping journey begins now.