Does Grocery Outlet Accept WIC? [2024]

If you or someone you know relies on WIC to help buy groceries, you may be wondering if you can use your WIC benefits at Grocery Outlet.

The quick answer is that some Grocery Outlet locations accept WIC but not all do. Read on for more details!

What is WIC?

For starters, WIC stands for Women, Infants, and Children.

It’s a federal program that provides funds and vouchers to buy healthy food for pregnant or breastfeeding women, infants, and children under age 5 who qualify and are at nutritional risk.

WIC benefits come on a debit-like card that can be used to purchase specific nutritious items like milk, cheese, eggs, cereal, peanut butter, fruits, and veggies. Each state runs its own WIC program.

related: Does Grocery Outlet Sell Birthday Cards?

How WIC Works at Grocery Stores

At participating grocery stores, WIC recipients can use their benefits card to obtain WIC-approved items.

The store must be authorized by the state to accept WIC. Approved items are typically marked with WIC shelf tags.

Purchases are deducted from the recipient’s account balance.

Any charges above the account balance must be paid by another form of payment.

Checking If Your Local Grocery Outlet Takes WIC

Because each location is different, you’ll need to check directly with your local Grocery Outlet to see if they accept WIC benefits. Here are some tips:

• Call and ask – just say “Do you accept WIC benefits?”
• Check for WIC tags on items when you visit the store.
• Look for signs near the register indicating WIC is accepted.
• Check their website or social media pages for WIC info.
• Ask customer service when you’re at the store.

If they do accept WIC, they can explain how the process works at that specific location.

Alternatives If Your Grocery Outlet Doesn’t Take WIC

If your local Grocery Outlet doesn’t accept WIC benefits, don’t worry! There are a few options:

• Find another grocery store in your area that is approved for WIC. Many major chains do accept it.
• Ask your WIC office for a list of authorized retailers near you. They should know all the places you can use benefits.
• Purchase what you can at Grocery Outlet, then use WIC at another store to supplement.
• See if your local Grocery Outlet will price match WIC items to make them affordable for you.

I hope these tips help you get the grocery savings you need through the WIC program!

Let me know if you need any other guidance.