Frequently Asked Questions about WIC
Are WIC services free?
Yes! All WIC services are free to women, infants and children who have a nutrition risk, meet theincome guidelines and are Pennsylvania residents.
What does WIC consider as income?
Income is counted for everyone living in the household and includes employment wages earned
before taxes, self-employment earnings, dividend or interest income, Social Security benefits,
SSI, public assistance, alimony or child support payments, unemployment compensation,
worker’s compensation, net rental income, and other cash income. Foster children under age 5
are eligible for WIC, and foster parent income is not considered.
If I receive MA (medical assistance), SNAP (food stamps) or TANF (temporary aid toneedy families), may I also apply for WIC?
Yes. In most instances, WIC has higher income guidelines than MA, SNAP or TANF. Even if you
don’t qualify for these programs, you may qualify for WIC.
What is the average value of a monthly WIC food package?
Woman - $126 - $250
Infant - $145 - $300
Child - $96 - $99(This only includes the value of the food WIC provides, not the nutrition services provided at theWIC offices by trained nutrition professionals.)Do I need to report WIC benefits on my income taxes?
No
Why is it important for children to receive WIC benefits up to age 5?
By staying on WIC, your child will receive foods to grow, and you will receive nutrition informationand tips from a nutritionist on how to help your child develop good eating habits to stay healthy.
These are the critical years for early childhood development.
What if I am a grandparent, father or foster parent?
If you are a grandparent, father or foster parent who has custody of a child under age 5, you may
apply for the child to receive WIC. Custody paperwork will be required for change of custody orother custody issues. Situations will be handled on a case-by-case basis.
What if I’m a teen? Do I qualify if I live with my mom or dad?
In most cases, if you are a teen, and your parent(s) claim you as a dependent on their taxes, youmust count all of the income of your household to determine if you are eligible for WIC. Pleasecall your local WIC office to find out if you are income eligible.
What is hemoglobin and why does WIC test for it?
Hemoglobin is a protein that uses iron to carry oxygen throughout our body. When children do
not get enough iron in their diet, the body cannot make hemoglobin, which means that less

oxygen reaches cells and tissues and affects how the body works. In young children, iron isparticularly important because it plays a role in muscle function, energy creation and brain
development. Children who develop iron-deficiency anemia can develop learning and behavioral
problems. As a public health program, WIC is required to check hemoglobin levels to help
prevent iron-deficiency anemia.
Why does WIC limit formulas to iron-fortified?
One of WIC’s goals is to reduce rates of anemia. If a mother chooses not to breastfeed, ironfortified formulas help prevent anemia. WIC does not provide low iron formulas because they do
not provide enough iron for normal growth and development. Lack of iron can impact cognitive
development and affect learning later in life. The American Academy of Pediatrics and theCenters for Disease Control and Prevention recommend iron-fortified formula for all formula fed
infants for the entire first year of life.
What is the WIC infant formula rebate system?
WIC encourages mothers to breastfeed their infants if possible; however, WIC will provide infant
formula to mothers who are unable to breastfeed. USDA regulations mandate that all states
establish a contract with one formula manufacturer as a cost savings measure. These contracts
provide a rebate for every can of standard formula purchased by a WIC participant. In turn, therebates received are immediately turned back to the program in order to serve more participants.
How does someone report a complaint or suspected program abuse?
Selling or trading WIC foods is illegal! If someone sells or trades any WIC foods, it could result incriminal charges and/or disqualification from receiving future WIC benefits.
To report program abuse or a complaint, call 1-800-942-9467 and you will be connected with thelocal WIC agency serving that county. WIC staff investigate all complaints or reports of alleged
program abuse and takes appropriate action if warranted. If you have already contacted the localWIC agency with no satisfaction, please call the state agency at 717-783-1289. WIC will keep
the name of the reporter confidential if requested.