Using Your California WIC Card
Shopping with your WIC benefits is easier than ever.
How the WIC Card Works
Once you are approved to receive WIC benefits, you will get a reusable California WIC Card. It works just like a debit card—you’ll go to the grocery store, shop, and use your WIC card at the register when you’re checking out.
Each month, your entire family’s WIC benefits will be loaded automatically onto your card.
Below, you can find more resources on how to use your WIC Card, how to check your balance, and more.
Before You Shop Download the California WIC App
The California WIC App can help you keep track of your WIC balance and find WIC-authorized foods, WIC offices, and grocery stores all in one place.
You can also use the app to scan foods in-store to see if they are WIC-authorized items.
If you do not have access to a mobile phone, you can find printable WIC Authorized Food Lists and other resources here.
Shopping with Your WIC Card
Once you are approved to receive WIC benefits, you will get a reusable California WIC Card. It works just like a debit card—you’ll go to the grocery store, shop, and use your WIC card at the register when you’re checking out.
Each month, your entire family’s WIC benefits will be loaded automatically onto your card.
Below, you can find more resources on how to use your WIC Card, how to check your balance, and more.
Prepping for Shopping
The first step in shopping with your WIC Card is finding a grocery store that accepts WIC. You can search for a store near you using this link or the WIC App.
Picking Your Groceries
Next, it’s time to shop. Use your WIC Authorized Food List Shopping Guide, the free California WIC App, and your WIC Food Balance to help you choose the right foods.
While you’re shopping, keep your WIC foods separate from your non-WIC items to make checkout easier.
Checking Out
Once you’re finished shopping, head to the checkout. Separate your WIC foods from any other non-WIC-approved items and tell the cashier that you will be using your WIC card before they start scanning. Different stores have different processes for scanning WIC foods, so follow the instructions from the cashier at the store you’re shopping at.
Once everything is scanned, look over your WIC purchases and make sure all items are correct before your sale is totaled. The cashier may give you a receipt or show you a screen to review. They’ll let you know when to swipe your WIC Card.
Enjoy Your WIC Food
Now, you can head home and dig in. If you want to find some recipes for your WIC foods, check out our Enjoying Your Benefits page.
Lost WIC Card
If you’ve misplaced your WIC card, we can provide a replacement card.
Give us a call at 714-973-2411 and we will issue you a new one.
Stay Connected
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Contact Us
We’re here to help! Our team is available to answer questions on the phone or over email.
(714) 973-2411 | WIC@PPOSBC.org
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
Immigrants and their loved ones across California can seek and accept medical care, food assistance and public housing without fear or confusion, thanks to changes in federal policy. They won’t be forced to choose between getting help for basic needs and their ability to stay with their families in the United States.