Does Target Take WIC in 2024? What’s Covered + More!

ByCharles Scott Last Update on

Target has a decades-long history of accepting WIC benefits across its thousands of stores nationwide. But with new technology and updates to the WIC program, you may be wondering – does Target still take WIC?

As a cost-conscious shopper myself, I‘ve researched this extensively and have all the details you need as a WIC participant shopping at Target. Keep reading for key information on using WIC benefits at Target stores in 2024.

WIC Program Background

First, let‘s quickly cover the basics of WIC. This federal assistance program provides healthy supplemental foods, nutrition education, and healthcare referrals to qualifying women, infants, and children up to age 5.

To be eligible, you must have a low income below WIC state guidelines (for example, $47,638 or less for a family of four in Maryland) and be determined to be at “nutritional risk” by a health professional.

According to the USDA, around 6.2 million individuals participated in WIC each month in 2019. Of those, approximately:

  • 1.8 million were infants
  • 2.1 million were children ages 1-4 years
  • 2 million were women

WIC is credited with positively impacting the health and nutritional status of low-income women and children for over 45 years since the program began in 1974.

WIC Benefits

WIC provides several types of benefits, including:

  • WIC-approved foods – The specific WIC foods covered include milk, cheese, eggs, cereal, peanut butter, beans, canned fish, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and infant formula/foods.

  • Nutrition education – WIC clinics provide materials, classes, and counseling on topics like prenatal nutrition, breastfeeding, meal planning, and child nutrition.

  • Breastfeeding support – WIC offers breast pumps, lactation consulting, and peer counseling groups to help moms initiate and continue breastfeeding.

  • Referrals – WIC can connect participants to healthcare, immunization, substance abuse treatment, and other community services.

WIC benefits are now provided electronically via EBT cards in all states. Cards are topped up with the participant‘s monthly food allotment and can be used at authorized WIC retailers nationwide.

What WIC Covers at Target

Target welcomes WIC participants and accepts EBT cards for all WIC-eligible foods and brands. Here‘s what‘s covered under WIC benefits when shopping at Target:

Milk, Yogurt, Cheese, Eggs

  • Milk (whole, 1%, 2%, skim)
  • Yogurt (16-32 oz containers)
  • Cheese slices, blocks, shreds
  • Eggs (12 count cartons)
  • Soy milk, soy yogurt, and tofu for some WIC recipients

Cereal

  • Hot cereals (oatmeal, cream of wheat)
  • Cold cereals (Cheerios, corn flakes, rice krispies)

Fruits & Vegetables

  • Fresh, frozen, canned fruits/veggies without added ingredients
  • All varieties – no restrictions

Grains

  • Whole wheat breads, buns, tortillas, pasta, etc
  • Whole grains like brown rice, barley, whole wheat crackers

Proteins

  • Canned tuna, salmon
  • Peanut butter (16-18 oz)
  • Dried beans, peas, lentils

Baby Foods

  • Infant cereals, fruits, vegetables
  • Infant meats (beef, chicken, turkey, ham)
  • Infant formula for some recipients

See the full WIC food packages here.

Recent Changes to WIC at Target

In late 2021, Target stores implemented EBT processing changes to allow WIC customers to get cash back when using their WIC benefits card. This makes Target more convenient for WIC moms who may need some extra cash.

Target also now allows the purchase of fresh produce without having to select the exact fruit or veggie variety ahead of time. For instance, you can grab a bag of apples without specifying if they are Fuji, Gala, etc.

These small changes show Target’s commitment to an easy, positive shopping experience for WIC recipients.

Using WIC at Target Locations

While most Target stores accept WIC, some smaller format stores without large grocery sections may not participate in WIC. Be sure to call ahead to confirm your local store welcomes WIC EBT cards before shopping.

At checkout, simply separate your WIC-eligible items from any non-food or non-WIC items. When prompted for payment, swipe your WIC card and enter your PIN. Your receipt will show the amount paid by WIC benefits vs cash/credit if needed.

Target Supercenters with full-service grocery areas are sure to carry all WIC-approved foods. Their wide variety and selection makes shopping with WIC a breeze.

Unfortunately, Target does not accept WIC benefits online for Drive Up or Order Pickup services. But in-store, you can pay with WIC at both traditional checkouts and self-checkout lanes.

Using WIC at Self-Checkout

Here are some tips for using your WIC benefits at Target’s self-checkout:

  • Scan your WIC-eligible items first and place them in the designated WIC bagging area
  • When ready to pay, select the WIC EBT card payment option on the pin pad
  • Insert your WIC card into the card reader
  • Enter your 4-digit PIN
  • Your WIC items will be deducted from your balance
  • Then pay for any non-WIC items with another form of payment
  • Keep your receipts to track your remaining balance

Target aims to make WIC transactions easy and discreet for customers. Let an employee know if you need any assistance with self-checkout.

Target‘s History of WIC Support

Target has been a recognized WIC vendor for over 30 years across its 1,900+ stores. WIC shoppers even have their own designated parking spaces at most locations.

The retailer also manufactures its own Up&Up store brand of baby products and foods that are fully WIC-approved. Items include cereals, purees, and infant formula specially labeled for WIC.

On top of accepting WIC benefits, Target donates thousands each year to local WIC agencies. The company is undoubtedly committed to serving WIC families nationwide.

The Bottom Line

Target continues to welcome WIC participants in 2024, accepting EBT cards for all WIC-eligible foods and brands across nearly all stores. Recent changes like cash back with EBT and flexible produce purchasing demonstrate Target‘s dedication to a positive, convenient WIC shopping experience.

So next time you redeem your WIC benefits, you can feel confident heading to Target knowing they‘ve got you and your family covered!

Charles Scott is a dynamic professional whose academic and career achievements demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in the retail and consumer service industry. Graduating with an MBA from New York University in 2013, Charles has built a diverse and impressive career portfolio. He has held significant roles as a manager, advisor, and marketer, showcasing his multifaceted skills and deep understanding of the industry.

Beyond his direct professional engagements, Charles has made a notable mark as the head writer and founder of ExpertBeacon.com. This platform stands as a testament to his dedication to consumer empowerment and education. ExpertBeacon.com is a resource designed to assist consumers in addressing their persistent questions about products, services, and companies. Under Charles's leadership, the site provides in-depth, well-researched, and accurate information, all structured in easy-to-follow guides and articles. His work here not only highlights his expertise in the field but also his commitment to providing valuable, actionable information to the public.

Charles's approach is centered on a keen understanding of consumer needs and market dynamics, making him a respected voice in the industry. His contributions through ExpertBeacon.com and his professional roles reflect a blend of strategic thinking, practical knowledge, and a genuine desire to enhance consumer experiences in the retail and consumer service sectors.

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