Benefit profile · Educational information
WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)
WIC gives healthy food, nutrition help, breastfeeding support, and referrals to health care for pregnant people, new parents, babies, and young children.
Who this program is for
Pregnant people, people who are breastfeeding, people who recently had a baby, babies, and children under 5 who live in New York and have low or middle income. Fathers, grandparents, and foster parents can apply for the children in their care.
What the rules say about eligibility
You must live in New York and be in one of the groups above. You need to meet income limits or be on Medicaid, SNAP, or Cash Assistance. A health worker will also check basic health and nutrition needs. Income limits change and should be checked on the official website.
Documents the program commonly asks for
- Photo ID for the person applying
- Proof of where you live
- Proof of income (or proof you get Medicaid, SNAP, or Cash Assistance)
- The child or baby must come to the first appointment
- Medical records or immunizations if you have them
Common reasons applications are denied
- Income above the limit and not on Medicaid, SNAP, or Cash Assistance
- Child is age 5 or older
- Did not bring the child to the appointment
- Missing proof of income or residence
- Did not come back for required visits
Renewal / recertification
WIC certification usually lasts 6 months to 1 year, depending on your group. You must come back for follow-up visits and a recertification appointment before your benefits end.
Emergency information
WIC is not an emergency program, but staff can help connect you to food pantries, breastfeeding help, and health care if you need help right away.
Official source links
Last reviewed: 2026-06-06. Information is based on official sources. Rules and income limits change, and the official agency makes the final decision on every application. This page is educational and is not advice.
GOV.Benefits AI is not a government agency and is not affiliated with any federal, state, or local government organization. Educational assistance only — explanations are based on official sources and are not advice, recommendations, or legal guidance. Read our full disclaimer.