Maine WIC Benefits for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff 2025 Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This guide gives you the exact steps, numbers, and contacts you need to apply for WIC in Maine today. Every link below is to an official state or federal source (or a well‑established statewide nonprofit) so you can move fast and avoid dead ends.

Quick Help Box

• Apply now by phone: call your county’s WIC office. Cumberland (Portland): 207‑553‑5800. Penobscot/Piscataquis (Bangor): 207‑992‑4570. York (Sanford): 207‑459‑2942; Biddeford: 207‑283‑2402. Androscoggin/Franklin/Oxford (Auburn): 207‑795‑4016; Wilton: 207‑645‑3764. Midcoast (Bath): 207‑442‑7963; Belfast: 207‑338‑1267; Rockland: 207‑594‑4329. Kennebec/Somerset (Augusta): 207‑626‑6350; Waterville: 207‑861‑3580; Skowhegan: 207‑861‑3593. Washington/Hancock (Ellsworth): 207‑667‑5304; Machias: 207‑255‑8280; Calais: 207‑454‑3634. Aroostook (Presque Isle): 207‑768‑3026. State WIC line: 207‑287‑3991 or 1‑800‑437‑9300. Find your local office and state contacts (official Maine CDC WIC). (maine.gov)
• Prefer online? Use the Maine WIC Contact Us form (request a call‑back). A staff member will call to book your first appointment (about one hour). (maine.gov)
• 2025–2026 income limits (185% FPL): family of 2 monthly ≤ $3,261\ast \ast ;familyof3\le \ast \ast$4,109; family of 4 ≤ $4,957. Full table below. Source: USDA WIC Income Eligibility Guidelines effective July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026. (fns.usda.gov)
• What you get each month for fruits/vegetables (CVB): child $26\ast \ast ,pregnant/postpartum\ast \ast$47, fully or mostly breastfeeding $52 (FY 2025). Details and food list in the official Maine WIC guide. (maine.gov, fns.usda.gov)
• Where to shop: check Maine’s live Find WIC Stores directory. You can also shop farmers using a BNFT barcode (see Farmers section). (www1.maine.gov)
• Farmers’ markets: FMNP season runs July 1–Oct 31. 2025 FMNP is $10 per eligible participant; if you spend more, purchases roll to your regular CVB during the same transaction. Use the BNFT app barcode; eWIC cards aren’t accepted at farm stands. Helpdesk: 855‑250‑8945. (maine.gov, mainefarmersmarkets.org)
• Breastfeeding support (pumps, peer counselors): your local WIC provides pumps/supplies and lactation help. In Cumberland County, you can also reach The Opportunity Alliance Breastfeeding Team at 207‑553‑5826 (Portland/Windham). (opportunityalliance.org)
• After‑hours community help (formula/diapers/food): call 2‑1‑1 (or 1‑866‑811‑5695) to be connected to local resources 24/7. Use the 211 Maine directory and the Good Shepherd Food Bank Food Map to find pantries near you. (211maine.org, gsfb.org)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (scan and act)

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Who qualifies in Maine (simple rules)

Start here: if you live in Maine and are pregnant, recently had a baby, breastfeeding/chestfeeding, or caring for a baby/child under 5, WIC may cover you or your child. Non‑birthing parents, legal guardians, foster/adoptive parents and dads can apply on behalf of eligible infants/children. Income must be at or below 185% of poverty—or you qualify automatically if anyone applying is on MaineCare, SNAP, or TANF. (maine.gov)

Reality check:

• Nutrition risk is required (quick screening at your appointment). This could be as simple as a low iron level, growth concerns, or diet risk—WIC handles this screening. (maine.gov)
• Postpartum parents who are not breastfeeding are typically eligible up to 6 months; breastfeeding parents have a longer window (up to baby’s first birthday) under USDA’s food package rules. (wicworks.fns.usda.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re over income by a little but your hours just dropped or you lost a job, bring the last 30 days of income and explain the change. Ask your clinic if “current income” can be used. If you’re still not eligible, call 2‑1‑1 for other food resources right away. (211maine.org)

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2025–2026 Maine WIC Income Limits (185% of FPL)

Effective July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026 (48 contiguous states, incl. Maine).

Source: USDA WIC Income Eligibility Guidelines, policy memo dated March 27, 2025. (fns.usda.gov)

Tip:

• If you’re on MaineCare, SNAP, or TANF, you’re income‑eligible for WIC—bring proof (benefit letter/card). (maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re just over these limits, ask about counting only the last 30 days of income if it helps. If you don’t qualify, apply for other help through My Maine Connection and call 2‑1‑1 to map out food, diaper, or rent support while you regroup. (211maine.org)

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What WIC gives you in Maine (2025)

Most important: you get a monthly food package on an eWIC card plus nutrition counseling and breastfeeding support. Maine follows USDA’s updated food package rules; details vary based on pregnancy/breastfeeding status and the child’s age. Maine’s official food list and CVB amounts are here. (maine.gov)

Fruits and vegetables (CVB) amounts, FY 2025

Sources: Maine CDC WIC “WIC Food Benefits” and USDA FY 2025 CVB memo (effective Oct 1, 2024–Sept 30, 2025). (maine.gov, fns.usda.gov)

Other typical WIC foods (varies by package/prescription):

• Whole grains (bread, tortillas, rice, oatmeal), breakfast cereal, milk or approved non‑dairy, yogurt/cheese, eggs, beans/peanut butter, canned fish (for some packages), 100% juice, and infant foods/formula when needed. Maine’s contract standard infant formula brand is Abbott’s Similac. (maine.gov)

Breastfeeding/chestfeeding supports:

• Personal lactation help, pumps (loaner hospital‑grade and hand pumps when appropriate), and higher food packages for fully or mostly breastfeeding parents. Cumberland County’s breastfeeding team: 207‑553‑5826. (opportunityalliance.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If something in your package doesn’t get used, tell your WIC nutritionist; packages can be tailored. If you’re struggling to find a specific formula or food, call your clinic for substitutions or approved alternatives; use 2‑1‑1 if you run short before your next issuance. (maine.gov, 211maine.org)

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How to apply in Maine (step‑by‑step)

Start with the fastest action at the top.

• Call your local WIC office (numbers in Quick Help). If phones are slammed, submit the Contact WIC form and they’ll call you. First appointments take about an hour. (maine.gov)
• Bring everyone applying to the first visit and bring the documents in the checklist below (ID, address, and income or proof of MaineCare/SNAP/TANF). (maine.gov)
• Expect a quick health/nutrition screening (height/weight/iron, brief history). If eligible, you’ll leave with an eWIC card and your first month’s benefits. (maine.gov)

Typical timeline:

• Booking: many clinics can schedule within a week; ask to be put on a cancellation list if you need an earlier slot.
• First appointment: about 1 hour. Follow‑ups are shorter and may be by phone or in‑person depending on your clinic. (maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you can’t reach your clinic, call the State WIC line 207‑287‑3991 or 1‑800‑437‑9300 to flag the problem and get help booking. (www1.maine.gov)

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Application Checklist (print or snap a photo)

Use Maine WIC’s official “What to Bring” list. If you receive MaineCare/SNAP/TANF, bring that proof—adjunct eligibility is the fastest path.

• Proof of income (last 30 days) OR benefit proof:
  • MaineCare card/letter, SNAP enrollment/renewal letter, or TANF statement. (maine.gov)
• Proof of where you live (no P.O. Boxes):
  • Utility bill, mail with your name/address, driver’s license with street address, lease/mortgage, or SNAP/TANF/MaineCare doc. (maine.gov)
• ID for each person applying:
  • Driver’s license, MaineCare card, state ID, passport, birth certificate, hospital crib card, vaccine record, school/employer ID, or Social Security card. (maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Missing a document? Call your clinic—many can work with alternate proofs or give you time to submit later. If you truly can’t locate income proof, bring what you have and explain—WIC must review your current situation. (maine.gov)

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Using your eWIC card in Maine (stores and farmers)

Most important:

• For grocery stores, use your eWIC card and the free WICShopper app to check allowed items and your balance. Maine’s official WIC Food Benefits page links to the food guide and WICShopper resources. (maine.gov)
• For farmers’ markets, you must use a BNFT barcode (not the eWIC card). Set up BNFT with your eWIC card number, birth date, ZIP, and email. If the app glitches, print a barcode from mybnft.com. Helpdesk: 855‑250‑8945. Find WIC Farmers. (maine.gov)
• Store finder: use Maine’s live Find WIC Stores directory (Hannaford, Shaw’s, Walmart, commissary and many local grocers). (www1.maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your card or benefits aren’t working, call your local WIC office or the State WIC line 207‑287‑3991 for quick troubleshooting. For BNFT/farmer issues, call 855‑250‑8945. (www1.maine.gov, maine.gov)

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WIC at Farmers’ Markets: how it works in 2025

• Season and amount: July 1–Oct 31; 2025 FMNP provides $10 per eligible participant, and if your purchase exceeds FMNP, the remainder will deduct from your regular monthly CVB automatically. (maine.gov, mainefarmersmarkets.org)
• Setup: create BNFT and generate your barcode before you go. Farmers cannot accept the eWIC card itself; BNFT barcode only. (maine.gov)
• Where to go: use the WICShopper app or Maine’s WIC Farmers list to find certified farmers. (maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your BNFT barcode won’t scan, call 855‑250‑8945 on the spot, or ask the farmer if they can try a manual entry. If you miss the season or run out of FMNP, use your regular CVB at stores or eligible farmers. (maine.gov)

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Maine WIC local agencies and direct phone numbers

Source: Maine CDC WIC. (maine.gov)

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Showing up without required proofs. Bring ID for each applicant, proof of Maine address, and income or proof of MaineCare/SNAP/TANF for the last 30 days. (maine.gov)
• Skipping the first appointment. Everyone applying must be present at intake unless your clinic gives other instructions.
• Not setting up BNFT before a farmers’ market trip. Farmers can’t take your eWIC card—bring the BNFT barcode. (maine.gov)
• Buying non‑approved items. Use WICShopper to scan items and avoid checkout errors. (maine.gov)
• Not asking for a tailored package. If you’re not using certain items, ask your WIC nutritionist to adjust. (maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you get stuck at the register or a farmer’s stand, keep the receipt and call your clinic the same day to fix it (and to avoid losing benefits). For general help, call the State WIC line 207‑287‑3991. (www1.maine.gov)

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Real‑world examples (so you can plan)

• You work full‑time and your 3‑year‑old is on MaineCare. Bring your MaineCare proof and ID/address. You’ll skip the full income review and likely leave that day with an eWIC card and your child’s benefits, including $26 in fruits/veggies plus the standard child foods. (maine.gov)
• You delivered 3 weeks ago and are not breastfeeding. You’re still eligible as a postpartum participant (typical eligibility up to 6 months postpartum per USDA packages). Bring baby’s birth paperwork and your ID/address. (wicworks.fns.usda.gov)
• You want to shop at farmers this weekend. Tonight, set up BNFT, generate the barcode, and confirm your market on the WIC Farmers list. If your total is more than FMNP, the rest will deduct from your monthly CVB. (maine.gov, mainefarmersmarkets.org)

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Diverse Communities: tailored tips and contacts

• LGBTQ+ single mothers and trans/non‑binary parents: Maine WIC recognizes “birthing parents,” “breastfeeding/chestfeeding,” and non‑birthing caregivers as eligible. Ask for your preferred name and pronouns at intake; interpreters are available free of charge. (maine.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a child with disabilities: tell staff about mobility, hearing, or cognitive needs; Maine WIC provides free language access and aids and can adjust appointment format as needed. Use Maine Relay 711 for calls. (www1.maine.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: connect with the Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services for benefits and support that can stack with WIC. Central office: 207‑287‑7020. (maine.gov)
• Immigrant and refugee single moms: You do not need to be a U.S. citizen to apply for WIC in Maine; the program is open to people living in Maine, including migrants. Free interpretation is available. If you are a refugee, Catholic Charities Maine’s Office for Maine Refugee Services can connect you to services. (maine.gov, ccmaine.org)
• Tribal citizens/Wabanaki families: use WIC and also connect with Wabanaki Public Health & Wellness for culturally specific support, housing navigation, and wellness services. Wabanaki Care Line: 1‑844‑844‑2622. (wabanakiphw.org)
• Rural single moms with limited transport: ask about phone appointments and bring‑along clinics; use the store finder to shop at the nearest authorized grocer; consider farmers near you during the FMNP season. If a clinic is far, call the State WIC line to discuss options. (www1.maine.gov)
• Single fathers: dads and non‑birthing caregivers can apply for children in their care. Bring custody/guardianship paperwork if applicable. (maine.gov)
• Language access: Maine WIC offers free interpreters and translated materials (Arabic, French, Lingála, Portuguese, Spanish, Somali). Ask your clinic when you call. (maine.gov)

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Extra Maine resources (when money/food runs short)

• 2‑1‑1 Maine: dial 211 or text your ZIP to 898‑211 for a direct connection to local help, 24/7. (211maine.org)
• Good Shepherd Food Bank Food Map: find pantries near you fast. (gsfb.org)
• Maine Food Finder (OpenMaine): community map of food sites and school meals. (pantries.openmaine.org)
• Diapers: KJFS Diaper Bank (Southern Maine) supports families through direct distribution and partners; contact 207‑772‑1959 or email per site instructions. (mainejewish.org)
• Donor breast milk: Mothers’ Milk Bank Northeast (HMBANA‑accredited) supports Maine families via hospitals and outpatient dispensaries; ask your pediatrician or see their site. (milkbankne.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you can’t reach the providers above, call 2‑1‑1. They’ll call around for you and set up referrals you can actually use this week. (211maine.org)

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Tables you can use now

A) Your Maine WIC monthly fruits/veggies (CVB) at a glance

Sources: Maine WIC Food Benefits; USDA FY25 memo. (maine.gov, fns.usda.gov)

B) Income eligibility (185% FPL) — quick list for families 1–8

USDA (effective 7/1/2025–6/30/2026). (fns.usda.gov)

C) Where to call in Maine — WIC agencies

Source: Maine CDC WIC. (maine.gov)

D) Farmers’ Market cheat sheet (season + tools)

Sources: Maine WIC farmer info; Maine Federation of Farmers’ Markets vendor guidance. (maine.gov, mainefarmersmarkets.org)

E) Appointment flow (so you’re in/out in an hour)

Source: Maine WIC “Apply and Get Started.” (maine.gov)

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FAQs (Maine‑specific)

• Can I apply if I don’t have a Maine driver’s license yet?
  • Yes—bring any acceptable ID plus proof of your Maine address (mail, lease, utility bill). See the official checklist. (maine.gov)
• I’m on MaineCare—does that count for income eligibility?
  • Yes. MaineCare, SNAP, or TANF recipients meet WIC income rules. Bring your benefit proof. (maine.gov)
• Do I have to be a U.S. citizen?
  • No. WIC is open to people living in Maine, including migrants. (maine.gov)
• I’m postpartum and not breastfeeding—am I still eligible?
  • Typically up to 6 months postpartum under USDA rules; ask your clinic to confirm your dates. (wicworks.fns.usda.gov)
• What if my child’s doctor switches formula?
  • Call your WIC office. They’ll tell you if a prescription is needed and how to exchange unused formula/benefits. (maine.gov)
• Can dads or grandparents apply for kids?
  • Yes. Fathers, legal guardians, adoptive/foster parents can apply for eligible infants/children. (maine.gov)
• How long is the first appointment?
  • About 1 hour on average. (maine.gov)
• Where can I see the exact foods I can buy?
  • Use Maine’s WIC Food Guide and the WICShopper app to scan items before you check out. (maine.gov)
• How do I use WIC at a farmers’ market?
  • Set up BNFT, bring your barcode, shop with certified WIC farmers. FMNP is $10 per participant in 2025; remaining costs can draw from your CVB. (maine.gov, mainefarmersmarkets.org)
• Who do I call if nobody picks up?
  • Try the State WIC line 207‑287‑3991 or 1‑800‑437‑9300. For general help finding formula/food, call 2‑1‑1. (www1.maine.gov, 211maine.org)

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Reality checks, timelines, and tips

• First appointments can fill up in busier areas (like Portland) during certain weeks. Ask to be placed on a cancellation list and be ready to come in on short notice.
• Benefits are issued monthly; shop early in your cycle to avoid out‑of‑stock issues on popular items.
• Always keep your receipts and take a photo of any shelf tag that caused confusion—this makes fixes faster when you call your clinic.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Use the store/farmer finder linked above, try another authorized store if yours is out of stock, and call the clinic for substitutions. If you still can’t get what you need, call 2‑1‑1 for backup food options the same day. (www1.maine.gov, 211maine.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Maine Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur—email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

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Disclaimer

Program rules, amounts, and processes can change anytime. Always verify key details with the Maine WIC Program before you apply or shop. Health and nutrition information here is general and not medical advice. For sensitive information, use secure channels and avoid sharing personal data on public Wi‑Fi. If you suspect a broken link or outdated figure, email info@asinglemother.org and we will correct it promptly.

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Source highlights and where to click next

• Apply/Contact, clinic phones, language access, and state lines: Maine CDC WIC main pages and “Apply and Get Started.” (maine.gov)
• Income eligibility (185% of poverty), effective 7/1/2025–6/30/2026 (USDA memo + attached tables). (fns.usda.gov)
• FY 2025 fruits/veggies amounts (CVB): USDA policy memo; Maine WIC Food Benefits and food guide/WICShopper links. (fns.usda.gov, maine.gov)
• Farmers: season, BNFT barcode, helpdesk, and 2025 FMNP amount. (maine.gov, mainefarmersmarkets.org)
• Formula changes/FAQs: Maine WIC family FAQs. (maine.gov)
• 2‑1‑1 Maine and Good Shepherd Food Map (food pantries). (211maine.org, gsfb.org)
• Breastfeeding pumps and support (Portland/Windham example): The Opportunity Alliance WIC. (opportunityalliance.org)
• Inclusive eligibility wording and interpreter access: Maine WIC eligibility and translated materials pages. (maine.gov)

If you need one link to start: use Maine’s WIC hub at Maine WIC (official program page). (maine.gov)

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🏛️More Maine Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Maine

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