What Documents to Bring to Your WIC Appointment

Bring proof of identity, income, and where you live

WIC appointments require three categories of documents: something that proves who you are, something that shows your household income, and something that confirms your address. You do not need to bring everything listed below — one document from each category is usually enough. The exact documents accepted vary slightly by state, so call your local WIC office the day before your appointment to confirm what they want.

Bring originals or certified copies, not photos of documents. If a document is in another language, bring the original plus an English translation if you have one; the WIC office can arrange translation if you do not. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early so staff can make copies if needed.

Key Takeaways

• Bring one form of photo ID (driver's license, passport, state ID card, or tribal ID), one proof of income (recent pay stub, tax return, or letter from your employer), and one proof of address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).
• If you do not have a photo ID, bring two non-photo documents that together prove your identity, such as a birth certificate and Social Security card.
• Income documents must show the last 30 days of earnings; if you are self-employed or receive benefits, bring the most recent statement from that source.
• Your WIC office may ask for proof that you or your children meet the nutrition risk criteria, such as a recent doctor's note or lab results showing anemia or low weight.
• Call ahead to ask whether your state requires any documents specific to your situation, such as proof of pregnancy or custody paperwork.

Photo ID and identity documents

Bring one current photo ID if you have one. A driver's license, state ID card, passport, or tribal ID all work. The ID does not have to be from your current state if you recently moved.

If you do not have a photo ID, bring two documents that together prove your identity. Common combinations are a birth certificate plus a Social Security card, or a birth certificate plus a bank statement in your name. School IDs, library cards, and expired photo IDs can also count as a second document in some states.

If your name has changed since your ID was issued — through marriage, divorce, or legal name change — bring the document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). You do not need to update your ID first.

Proof of income from the last 30 days

WIC looks at your household's total monthly income to determine whether you meet the income limit. Bring a document showing what you or anyone in your household earned in the last 30 days. A recent pay stub is the fastest option — it should show your name, employer, and gross pay for the current pay period.

If you are paid weekly or biweekly, bring two or three recent pay stubs so the office can calculate your monthly average. If you are self-employed, bring a recent business bank statement, profit-and-loss statement, or tax return from the last year. If you receive unemployment, Social Security, disability, child support, or other benefits, bring the most recent statement or award letter showing the monthly amount.

If you have no income or your income is irregular, bring a signed letter from your employer stating your employment status, or a statement from a social service agency confirming you receive benefits. If you are unemployed and looking for work, bring documentation of your job search or a letter from an unemployment office.

Proof of your address

Bring one document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and current address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), lease or rental agreement, or recent bank or credit card statement all work. Some states also accept a mortgage statement, property tax bill, or insurance bill.

If you recently moved and do not yet have a bill in your new address, bring a signed letter from your landlord or property manager on their letterhead stating your name, the address, and your move-in date. A lease or rental agreement with your new address also works. If you live with family or friends and are not on the lease, bring a signed statement from the person whose name is on the lease, plus your ID, confirming you live there.

If you are experiencing homelessness, tell the WIC office when you call to schedule. Most states have a process for people without a fixed address — you may be asked to provide the address of a shelter, a friend's address where you receive mail, or a social service agency's address.

Documents for children and pregnancy

Bring the birth certificate or passport for each child you are applying for. If you are pregnant, bring a letter from your doctor or midwife dated within the last 60 days that confirms your pregnancy and expected due date. A hospital discharge summary or prenatal care records also work.

If you are applying for a child who is not your biological child — a grandchild, foster child, or relative you care for — bring proof of custody or guardianship. This can be a court order, custody agreement, or foster care placement letter. If you have informal custody, bring a signed statement from the child's parent or guardian giving you permission to seek WIC benefits on their behalf.

Proof of nutrition risk (if requested)

Some WIC offices ask for proof that you or your children meet the nutrition risk criteria — for example, a child who is underweight, overweight, or has anemia, or a pregnant person with low weight gain. If the office asks for this, bring a recent doctor's note, lab results, or growth chart from a pediatrician or clinic visit within the last six months.

If you do not have recent medical records, the WIC office can refer you to a clinic for a free screening. This does not delay your appointment — you can complete the nutrition assessment at the WIC office itself or at a partner clinic within a few days.

What you do not need to bring

Do not bring your Social Security card itself unless you have no other way to prove your identity. Do not bring original birth certificates unless you are applying for a child — a photocopy is fine for your own identity. You do not need to bring proof of citizenship or immigration status; WIC does not require it.

You do not need to bring anything related to other benefits you receive, such as SNAP or Medicaid approval letters, unless the WIC office specifically asks. You do not need to bring your children to the appointment, though some offices prefer you do so they can measure height and weight on the spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I do not have any of these documents?

Call your WIC office and explain what you have. Most offices can work with you — they may accept alternative documents, help you get copies of documents you need, or refer you to a social service agency that can help. Do not skip your appointment because you think you lack the right papers.

Can I bring documents on my phone instead of printing them?

Some WIC offices accept photos or digital copies, but most prefer originals or printed copies because they need to make their own copies for your file. Ask when you schedule whether digital copies are acceptable in your state.

Do I need to bring documents for my partner or spouse?

Only if they are the primary caregiver of a child you are applying for. Otherwise, bring documents only for the person applying and the children included in the application.

What happens if I forget a document?

Call the office as soon as you realize it. Many offices will let you email or mail the missing document within a few days without rescheduling. If you show up without something, staff can usually tell you on the spot whether you can submit it later or need to reschedule.

Do I need to bring proof that I live in this state?

No. WIC does not require you to be a state resident or citizen. Your proof of address just needs to show where you currently live, regardless of how long you have been there.