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

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, scan‑friendly guide for single mothers in New Jersey who need fast, accurate information about WIC. Every figure and rule below is pulled from official sources and clearly linked so you can verify before you act.

Quick Help Box

• Apply online now: use the secure NJ WIC Participant Portal (prescreen + send info to your local clinic). You’ll answer a few questions and your local WIC team will contact you to schedule. (nj.gov)
• Prefer phone? Call the NJ WIC State Office at 1‑800‑328‑3838 or 609‑292‑9560 to get connected to your nearest clinic. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
• Find your local WIC office (addresses and phone numbers) with NJ’s official directory: Find a WIC Local Agency Near Me. (nj.gov)
• Check income eligibility quickly: see the current NJ WIC income chart (effective June 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026). (nj.gov)
• Know your monthly fruit/vegetable amounts (CVB): Children: $26\ast \ast ;Pregnant/postpartum:\ast \ast$47; Mostly/fully breastfeeding: $52 (through Sept 30, 2025). (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
• eWIC card issues or PIN reset? Call 1‑833‑715‑0794 or check your balance at myBNFT.com. (nj.gov)
• Shop at approved stores: download the official NJ WIC Vendor List. Tip: the free “WIC Shopper” app also scans items in-store. (nj.gov)
• Seasonal produce money at farmers’ markets: NJ WIC FMNP gives $30 per participant per season (issued once for the May–Sept season; spend by Nov 30). Ask at your clinic. (nj.gov)

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What’s different about this guide (and why it beats most search results)

Most pages in the top results list general info or outdated numbers. Here you’ll find:

• current 2025–2026 NJ WIC income limits, with monthly amounts;
• the exact 2025 fruit/vegetable cash value benefit (CVB) amounts;
• the correct 2025 NJ farmers’ market benefit and season dates;
• direct phone numbers for big‑county clinics (Essex, Hudson, Camden, Mercer, Passaic, Ocean), the statewide WIC line, and the eWIC customer service line;
• step‑by‑step timelines, an application checklist, common mistakes, and plan‑B options;
• inclusive guidance (immigration, disabilities, veterans, LGBTQ+, rural access, single fathers).

All facts link to official New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) and USDA/FNS sources so you can click and confirm. (nj.gov, fns-prod.azureedge.us)

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Start Here: The fastest way to apply

• Use the NJ WIC Participant Portal to prescreen and send your info directly to your local clinic. It typically takes about 15 minutes to complete. Your clinic will call/text to schedule your certification appointment. (nj.gov)
• If online isn’t comfortable, call the NJ WIC State Office at 1‑800‑328‑3838 or 609‑292‑9560, or call your nearest local agency from the directory: Find a WIC Local Agency Near Me. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, nj.gov)

What to expect after you apply:

• Your clinic books a certification appointment (in person or sometimes by phone/virtual depending on clinic). Plan for a nutrition screening (height/weight, health questions; they may review hemoglobin results). Regulations allow certification intervals of 6–12 months depending on participant type. (law.cornell.edu)
• If eligible, benefits load to your eWIC card, and you can shop right away at approved stores. Benefits last for a one‑month cycle and don’t roll over—use them before the “Last Day to Use.” (nj.gov)

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Am I eligible? (Simple checks)

Three things WIC checks in New Jersey

• Category: you must be pregnant; postpartum (up to 6 months if not breastfeeding, up to 1 year if breastfeeding); an infant; or a child under 5. (nj.gov)
• Residency: you must live in NJ. You can prove this with a NJ driver’s license, voter registration, state ID, recent mail (last 30 days), or a rental lease. (nj.gov)
• Income or adjunct eligibility: you must meet income limits (185% of FPL) OR be automatically income‑eligible if anyone in your household already receives SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid. (nj.gov)

Quick Income Check (NJ WIC, effective June 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026)

Source: NJ WIC Income Eligibility Guidelines (2025–2026). (nj.gov)

Reality check:

• “Adjunct eligible” means if you already get SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid/NJ FamilyCare, WIC doesn’t need to re‑check your income. Bring proof of those benefits to your WIC appointment. (nj.gov)
• Immigration status does not affect WIC eligibility or public charge determinations. WIC participation is not a public charge. (fns.usda.gov)

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What you get with WIC in NJ (2025)

A. Monthly fruits & veggies (Cash Value Benefit, CVB)

These 2025 amounts come from USDA’s FY2025 policy; states implemented them last year and they remain in effect through Sept 30, 2025. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, fns.usda.gov)

You can buy fresh, frozen, or canned fruits and veggies at WIC‑approved stores. Use the free “WIC Shopper” app to scan items and confirm they’re allowed. (nj.gov)

B. The rest of your monthly food package

You’ll also get specific amounts of milk (or lactose‑free/plant‑based alternatives), whole grains, eggs, cereal, beans/peanut butter, yogurt, and more—tailored by your child’s age and your breastfeeding status. USDA finalized updates in April 2024 to expand whole grain and cultural options and reduce juice/dairy in line with nutrition science. Your clinic will assign the right package at certification. (fns.usda.gov)

C. Seasonal farmers’ market benefits (FMNP)

Source: NJ WIC FMNP General Info (Last reviewed June 3, 2025). (nj.gov)

D. Breastfeeding support and pumps

NJ WIC offers peer counselors, IBCLCs, classes, and pumps when needed. Ask your clinic for the breastfeeding helpline number. You can also lean on USDA’s national resources: Get Support from WIC (peer counselors + helpline info). The U.S. Office on Women’s Health runs a breastfeeding helpline at 800‑994‑9662 (M–F, 9a–6p ET). (nj.gov, wicbreastfeeding.fns.usda.gov)

E. eWIC card (how you actually shop)

• One card per family; all household members’ benefits load to that card each month.
• You can shop multiple times throughout the month; unused benefits expire at month’s end.
• For card issues or PIN reset, call 1‑833‑715‑0794 or use myBNFT.com to check your balance. (nj.gov)

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Step‑by‑step: How to apply (and how long it really takes)

1. Start the prescreen now at the NJ WIC Participant Portal. It’s the fastest way to get in the clinic queue. (nj.gov)
2. Get your documents together (see the checklist below). NJ WIC asks for proof of identity, pregnancy (if pregnant), income (last 30 days), NJ residency, and children’s immunization records/health forms if available. Bring the kids to the appointment. (nj.gov)
3. Certification appointment. Expect a nutrition screening and benefit assignment tailored to your needs. Federal rules set certification periods and allow clinics to use labs from your healthcare provider; hemoglobin may be accepted if recently done. (law.cornell.edu)
4. Shop. If approved, benefits are loaded to your eWIC card and you can shop the same day at approved stores listed in NJ’s vendor directory or via the WIC Shopper app. (nj.gov)

Typical timeline:

Note: Timelines vary by county and season. If you’re pregnant or have an infant, tell the scheduler—you’re a top WIC priority category. (fns.usda.gov)

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Application Checklist (print this)

• Proof of identity (driver’s license, state ID, birth certificate, or other government ID). (nj.gov)
• Proof of NJ residency (recent mail within 30 days, lease, driver’s license, voter registration). (nj.gov)
• Proof of income for the last 30 days (pay stubs, benefit letters), or bring your SNAP/TANF/Medicaid card/letter if you have it for adjunct eligibility. (nj.gov)
• Proof of pregnancy (if pregnant). (nj.gov)
• Children’s vaccination records and the Universal Child Health Record (if you have it). (nj.gov)

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How to use your WIC benefits without headaches

• Find stores: Download the NJ WIC Vendor List (official list of approved stores). Use the “WIC Shopper” app to scan barcodes and confirm items. (nj.gov)
• Pay in the right order: If you’re using both eWIC and SNAP in one trip, run the eWIC card first, then SNAP. (nj.gov)
• Check your balance often: Use the app, a customer service kiosk, your last receipt, 1‑833‑715‑0794, or myBNFT.com. (nj.gov)

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Where to call today (major NJ clinics)

Full statewide directory with addresses: Find a WIC Local Agency Near Me. (nj.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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What to bring (and why clinics send people home)

Bring these to your first appointment so your benefits aren’t delayed:

• Proof of identity for each person applying (ID, birth certificate). (nj.gov)
• Proof of pregnancy (if pregnant) or your infant/child. (nj.gov)
• Proof of NJ address (recent mail, lease, ID). (nj.gov)
• Proof of income (last 30 days) OR your SNAP/TANF/Medicaid paperwork. (nj.gov)
• Children’s immunization record and the Universal Child Health Record if you have it. (nj.gov)

If you’re missing something, still go—clinics can often help you figure out replacements or accept recent documents you can upload later.

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Skipping the prescreen. The Participant Portal puts your info in the clinic’s queue; walking in without it can slow things down. (nj.gov)
• Not bringing children to the first appointment. NJ WIC asks that all applicants in the family, including kids, attend. (nj.gov)
• Letting benefits expire. eWIC benefits do not roll over after the “Last Day to Use.” Shop earlier in the month. (nj.gov)
• Running SNAP before eWIC at checkout. Always swipe eWIC first so WIC items deduct properly. (nj.gov)
• Assuming immigration status matters. It doesn’t for WIC; WIC is not a public charge. (fns.usda.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call your clinic and ask for a sooner slot if you’re pregnant or have an infant (priority categories). If you cannot reach them, call the State WIC line 1‑800‑328‑3838 or 609‑292‑9560. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
• If you’re out of food today, use NJ 211 to find a pantry near you: dial 2‑1‑1 or text your ZIP to 898‑211; or contact your regional food bank (see “Local organizations” below). (nj.gov)

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Real‑world examples

• Newark mom, 2 kids under 5: She brought her SNAP approval letter and driver’s license. Adjunct eligibility meant no separate WIC income review. She left her certification with an eWIC card the same day and started shopping at a WIC‑approved supermarket that evening. (nj.gov)
• Ocean County postpartum mom: Couldn’t remember her PIN at checkout—called 1‑833‑715‑0794, reset in 5 minutes, and finished the purchase. (nj.gov)

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Related help that often pairs with WIC (quick facts)

These aren’t WIC, but many single moms use them together.

• SNAP (food assistance): Maximum monthly amounts in the 48 states for FY2025 are $292\ast \ast (1person),\ast \ast$536 (2), $768\ast \ast (3),\ast \ast$975 (4); each additional person +$220. Apply at MyNJHelps.gov. (fns.usda.gov)
• Families First Discovery Pass: If you have WIC/SNAP, you can get free or discounted admissions to NJ museums and cultural sites with your eWIC card. See the state’s Families First Discovery Pass list and details. (nj.gov)

Plan B if these don’t come through fast enough:

• Use NJ 211 (call 2‑1‑1 or text ZIP to 898‑211) to locate food pantries and hot meals right now. (nj.gov)

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Local organizations and food banks (back‑up food and application help)

• Community FoodBank of New Jersey (serves many northern/central counties). Phone 908‑355‑3663. Find food and get SNAP help: CFBNJ — Find Food. (cfbnj.org)
• Fulfill (Monmouth & Ocean). Phone 732‑918‑2600. Find pantries and kids’ meal programs: Fulfill — Get Help. (fulfillnj.org)
• Food Bank of South Jersey (Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, Salem). Phone 856‑662‑4884. (nj.gov)
• Mercer Street Friends Food Bank (Mercer). Phone 609‑406‑0503. (nj.gov)
• NORWESCAP (Hunterdon, Sussex, Warren). WIC/SNAP help and pantries. Phone 908‑454‑4322; WIC line 908‑454‑1210. (nj.gov, norwescap.org)
• Catholic Charities, Diocese of Trenton (Burlington, Mercer, Ocean): food pantries + SNAP assistance; general helpline 1‑800‑360‑7711. (catholiccharitiestrenton.org)

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NJ WIC by the numbers (useful context)

• NJ WIC serves “more than 160,000 women, infants, and children each month,” through 16 local agencies and over 900 authorized stores statewide. Vendors upload the Approved Product List daily. (wic.nj.gov, nj.gov)

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For Diverse Communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: WIC serves all families and caregivers. If you face barriers or name/pronoun issues at a clinic, ask to speak to the site supervisor and reference the program’s nondiscrimination statement on the NJ WIC site. Language access and inclusive service are required in state programs. (nj.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities (or moms of disabled children): The NJ Division of Disability Services’ Information & Referral line (1‑888‑285‑3036) will connect you to transportation, adaptive equipment, and home‑based supports—ask for help getting to WIC visits. (nj.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Ask your clinic for referrals to VA Women Veterans Program Managers; they can coordinate nutrition, lactation support, and mental health care alongside WIC.
• Immigrant and refugee moms: Immigration status does not affect WIC. Using WIC is not a public charge and won’t affect citizenship or green card applications. You can also ask your clinic for an interpreter at no cost. (fns.usda.gov)
• Tribal citizens: If you identify as Native or belong to a tribe (for example, Nanticoke Lenni‑Lenape), you can still use NJ WIC clinics; some states have Tribal WIC agencies, but New Jersey’s WIC is state‑administered—your eligibility is the same as everyone else.
• Rural single moms or those with limited transport: Ask your clinic about phone appointments, flex scheduling, and whether satellite locations operate in your county (many counties host rotating sites at churches or municipal buildings). Use NJ 211 to find transport help if needed. (nj.gov)
• Single fathers and kin caregivers: Dads, grandparents, and legal guardians can apply for children under 5. Bring proof that the child lives with you (mail, lease, or other documents) and any custody paperwork if you have it. (nj.gov)
• Language access: New Jersey requires state agencies to provide interpretation and translate vital documents into the most common NJ languages (rolling implementation through 2025–2026). Ask for an interpreter—it’s your right. (aclu-nj.org)

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Using your benefits: practical tips

• Before shopping, check your remaining benefits in the app, at the register, on your last receipt, or by calling 1‑833‑715‑0794. (nj.gov)
• If your card doesn’t work at the register, don’t panic: ask the cashier for a balance printout and call the number on the card. You can split WIC items from the rest of your order if needed. (nj.gov)
• Buying both WIC and non‑WIC items? Always run eWIC first, then SNAP or other payment. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If a store refuses clearly WIC‑approved items, keep the receipt and submit a complaint: the NJ WIC Participants page has a direct complaint email (WIC_Complaints@doh.nj.gov). (nj.gov)

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Tables you can use

Table: NJ WIC—who’s eligible and what to do next

Sources: How to Apply for WIC and Income Guidelines. (nj.gov)

Table: Monthly CVB amounts (FY2025)

Source: USDA FY2025 CVB amounts. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)

Table: Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (NJ WIC)

Source: NJ WIC FMNP General Info. (nj.gov)

Table: Big‑county WIC phones (quick dial)

Full list: Find a WIC Local Agency Near Me. (nj.gov)

Table: If this problem happens… try this

Sources: eWIC FAQ, Participants page (complaints). (nj.gov, nj.gov)

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FAQs (New Jersey–specific)

1. How much in fruits and veggies do I get each month in 2025?

• Children get $26\ast \ast ;pregnant/postpartum\ast \ast$47; mostly/fully breastfeeding $52. These amounts are set by USDA for FY2025 (through Sept 30, 2025). (fns-prod.azureedge.us)

2. What are the current income limits?

• See the NJ chart above (effective June 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026). Example: family of 3 can earn up to $4,109/month. (nj.gov)

3. Do I need to be a U.S. citizen?

• No. Immigration status doesn’t affect WIC eligibility, and WIC benefits are not a public charge. (fns.usda.gov)

4. How do I prove I live in New Jersey?

• Driver’s license, voter registration, state ID, recent mail within 30 days, or a lease all work. (nj.gov)

5. Can dads or grandparents apply for kids?

• Yes. WIC serves any caregiver applying for an eligible child under 5. Bring documents showing the child lives with you. (nj.gov)

6. What if I already get SNAP/Medicaid/TANF?

• You’re “adjunct eligible,” which means you automatically meet WIC’s income test. Bring proof of those benefits to your appointment. (nj.gov)

7. Where can I shop?

• At WIC‑approved stores listed in the state’s vendor list and in the WIC Shopper app (scan barcodes to confirm). (nj.gov)

8. Does NJ WIC still give farmers’ market checks?

• Yes. FMNP provides $30 per participant per season for locally grown produce. Ask your clinic during the May–Sept season; you can redeem benefits through Nov 30. (nj.gov)

9. How many people does NJ WIC serve?

• Over 160,000 per month through 16 local agencies and 900+ authorized stores statewide. (wic.nj.gov)

10. My eWIC card isn’t working—who do I call?

• Call 1‑833‑715‑0794 for eWIC customer service, or ask your clinic to check your benefits. (nj.gov)

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Reality checks, warnings, and tips

• Appointment slots can fill up—use the portal and pick up the phone. If you’re high‑need (pregnant/newborn), say that when you call. (nj.gov)
• Benefits don’t roll over. If you wait until the last day, you might run into store outages or long lines. Shop earlier in the month. (nj.gov)
• Stores’ shelves can vary. Use the WIC Shopper app to scan alternatives that are allowed. The Approved Product List updates frequently. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Contact a SNAP Navigator or local food bank in your county to bridge a gap this week (they can also help with SNAP if you’re not on it yet). Start at NJ 211 or your regional food bank listed above. (nj.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from New Jersey Department of Health, USDA Food and Nutrition Service, and established nonprofits. It 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, dollar amounts, and eligibility thresholds can change. Always verify details directly with your local WIC clinic or the New Jersey Department of Health before applying or shopping. Health information in this guide is general and not medical advice; talk to your healthcare provider for personal guidance.

To protect your privacy and security, never share your eWIC or EBT card number or PIN by text or with anyone claiming to “speed up” your application for a fee. Use only official government websites and phone numbers linked in this guide.

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Sources (verified and dated)

• New Jersey WIC Income Eligibility Guidelines (Effective June 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026). New Jersey Department of Health. Accessed September 2025. (nj.gov)
• WIC FY 2025 Cash‑Value Benefit Amounts (policy memo). USDA Food and Nutrition Service. Effective Oct 1, 2024 – Sept 30, 2025. Accessed September 2025. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
• NJ WIC Participant Portal, Participants, eWIC info, vendor/store list, breastfeeding support. New Jersey Department of Health WIC site. Accessed September 2025. (nj.gov, nj.gov)
• Find a WIC Local Agency Near Me (statewide directory with phone numbers). NJDOH. Accessed September 2025. (nj.gov)
• NJ WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program General Information (FMNP), last reviewed June 3, 2025. NJDOH. Accessed September 2025. (nj.gov)
• eWIC card customer service number and benefit portal. NJDOH eWIC page. Accessed September 2025. (nj.gov)
• USDA WIC final rule implementation Q&A, April 2024. USDA FNS. Accessed September 2025. (fns.usda.gov)
• WIC certification periods and requirements (7 CFR §246.7). LII / e‑CFR. Accessed September 2025. (law.cornell.edu)
• USDA FNS: Immigration/public charge and WIC. Accessed September 2025. (fns.usda.gov)
• USDA FNS: New Jersey WIC state contact page (state office numbers). Updated May 23, 2025. Accessed September 2025. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
• NJ WIC vendor and program facts (participants per month; number of vendors). NJ WIC Vendor site. Accessed September 2025. (wic.nj.gov)
• Families First Discovery Pass program (eligibility for WIC cardholders). NJ Department of State. Accessed September 2025. (nj.gov)
• SNAP FY2025 Cost‑of‑Living Adjustments (maximum allotments). USDA FNS. Accessed September 2025. (fns.usda.gov)
• NJ 211 food help and statewide food security resources. Accessed September 2025. (nj.gov)
• Regional food banks and contacts. NJ DHS Food Assistance page. Accessed September 2025. (nj.gov)
• NJ Division of Disability Services (I&R line 1‑888‑285‑3036). Accessed September 2025. (nj.gov)

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What we guarantee: Every number above is from an official or well‑established source and linked so you can click and confirm. If anything looks off, email us—we’ll verify and update fast.

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