WIC Eligibility in New York
2026 income limits, who qualifies, and how to apply
New York WIC covers pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, infants, and children under 5 with household income at or below 185% of the federal poverty level. For a family of 4, that is $57,720/year ($4,810/month).
Do You Qualify for WIC in New York?
Enter your household size and gross annual income to check eligibility.
The next step is to schedule an appointment with New York State WIC Program. Bring proof of identity, income, and New York residency.
Apply now →Still worth applying if: You receive Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF — many states grant automatic WIC eligibility regardless of dollar income.
Income recently changed? WIC uses current income. A job loss, reduced hours, or other change may now put you under the limit.
Enter your household size and income to check.
New York WIC Income Limits — All Household Sizes
All figures are 185% of the 2026 federal poverty level. Gross income before taxes.
| Household size | Annual limit | Monthly limit | Weekly limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 people | $27,861 | $2,322 | $536 |
| 2 people | $37,814 | $3,151 | $727 |
| 3 people | $47,767 | $3,981 | $919 |
| 4 people (reference) | $57,720 | $4,810 | $1,110 |
| 5 people | $67,673 | $5,639 | $1,301 |
| 6 people | $77,626 | $6,469 | $1,493 |
| 7 people | $87,579 | $7,298 | $1,684 |
| 8 people | $97,532 | $8,128 | $1,876 |
| 9+ people | Add $9,953 per additional person | ||
Source: USDA FNS 2026 federal poverty guidelines at 185% FPL. Contact New York State WIC Program to confirm current thresholds.
Who Qualifies for WIC in New York?
Pregnant women
Any trimester. Certification continues through pregnancy and 6 weeks postpartum (or 12 months if breastfeeding).
Breastfeeding mothers
Up to 12 months after birth. Breastfeeding mothers receive a larger food package than non-breastfeeding postpartum women.
Non-breastfeeding postpartum women
Up to 6 months after birth or end of pregnancy. Includes women who had a miscarriage or stillbirth.
Infants
From birth up to 12 months. Formula is provided if not breastfeeding. Breastfed infants receive a food package starting around 6 months.
Children
Ages 1 through 4 years (up to their 5th birthday). Certified in 6-month increments. Must meet income and nutritional risk requirements at each recertification.
How to Apply for WIC in New York
Applications are handled by New York State WIC Program.
Check income eligibility
Use the calculator above. If your household income is at or below 185% FPL, you likely qualify. Bring recent pay stubs, tax returns, or employer letters to your appointment.
Schedule an appointment
Apply at a local WIC clinic. New York City and upstate clinics are available. New York WIC serves over 500,000 participants per month.
Attend your WIC appointment
Bring proof of identity, New York residency, income, and immunization records for children. A WIC staff member will complete a nutritional risk screening — most applicants who meet income guidelines qualify.
Receive your WIC EBT card
Monthly food benefits are loaded to an EBT card you can use at WIC-authorized stores throughout New York. Benefits are available immediately after certification.
Already on Medicaid or SNAP? You likely qualify automatically.
Most states have "adjunct eligibility" — if your household receives Medicaid, SNAP (food stamps), or TANF cash assistance, you automatically meet the WIC income requirement. You don't need to document income separately. Mention your Medicaid or SNAP card at your WIC appointment.
What WIC Provides
Food package includes
- ✓ Infant formula (if not breastfeeding)
- ✓ Milk, cheese, eggs
- ✓ Fresh, frozen, or canned fruits and vegetables
- ✓ Whole grain bread, cereal, oatmeal, tortillas
- ✓ Juice, peanut butter, dried beans or lentils
- ✓ Iron-fortified baby cereal (for infants 6+ months)
Additional services
- ✓ Nutrition counseling at each clinic visit
- ✓ Breastfeeding support and peer counselors
- ✓ Growth and development screening for children
- ✓ Referrals to SNAP, Medicaid, Head Start