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

Last updated: September 2025

North Carolina WIC can feel confusing when you’re juggling kids, work, and bills. This guide gives you the exact steps, numbers, timelines, and contacts you need in one place. Every stat and dollar figure comes from official sources linked throughout.

Quick Help Box

• Call or text to get an appointment: 1‑844‑601‑6881. You can also text “wic” plus your ZIP code (example: “wic12345”). Expect a callback within 20 days (often faster). Find your local WIC office (NC WIC County Directory). (ncdhhs.gov)
• Start online in 60 seconds: Submit the North Carolina WIC Referral Form. Priority families (pregnant, infants under 6 months, people experiencing homelessness, migrant farmworkers) are contacted within 10 days. (ncdhhs.gov)
• 2025 income limit example: Family of 3 can earn up to $49,303/year\ast \ast (or\ast \ast$4,109/month). Full chart below. If you get Medicaid, TANF/Work First, or SNAP/FNS, you’re automatically income‑eligible. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Fruits/Vegetables cash benefit (CVB) per month through Sept 30, 2025: Child $26\ast \ast ;Pregnant/postpartum\ast \ast$47; Mostly/fully breastfeeding $52. (fns.usda.gov)
• eWIC card help (PIN, balance, replacement): 1‑844‑230‑0813 or the ebtEDGE app/site. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) May–Sept 2025: $30 per eligible person (pregnant/postpartum/breastfeeding women and kids 2–4); benefits expire 30 days after issue. Use only at authorized NC farmers’ markets. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Need language or disability assistance? Interpreter services: 1‑866‑719‑0141; TTY/711 Relay accepted. (ncdhhs.gov)

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What This Guide Covers (and Why It Beats the Top Search Results)

Action first. Precise numbers. Actual phone numbers. Direct appointment links. Many pages in the search results still show 2024 income figures or don’t include the FY 2025 fruit/veggie amounts, and few give you the statewide text line or the 10‑day priority callback rule. Below you’ll find 2025 income limits, FY 2025 CVB amounts, the fastest ways to book, real timelines, and a Plan B for every step. Sources are official NC DHHS and USDA pages, updated in 2025. (ncdhhs.gov, fns.usda.gov)

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Who Can Get WIC in North Carolina (2025)

Start here: if you’re pregnant, postpartum (within 6 months), breastfeeding (up to your baby’s first birthday), have an infant, or have a child under age 5, live in NC, meet income rules (or get Medicaid/TANF/SNAP), and are determined to be at nutritional risk by WIC staff, you can qualify. The risk check is free and done at the clinic. (ncdhhs.gov)

• If you already receive Medicaid, Work First/TANF, or SNAP/FNS, you are automatically income‑eligible for WIC (you still need the health/nutrition check). (ncdhhs.gov)
• WIC is not part of “public charge.” Using WIC won’t hurt immigration status or applications. See the federal fact sheets. (fns.usda.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re told you don’t qualify but think you do, ask for the income rules in writing and request another appointment to review. You can also call the NC DHHS Customer Service Center at 1‑800‑662‑7030. (ncdhhs.gov)

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2025 Income Limits (North Carolina WIC)

WIC uses 185% of the federal poverty guidelines. NC posts its own chart. Effective June 2, 2025. (ncdhhs.gov)

Add $10,175/year\ast \ast (or\ast \ast$848/month) for each additional household member. (ncdhhs.gov)

Reality check:

• If your income varies (gig work, tips), bring your recent pay stubs (ideally last 30 days) and, if self‑employed, last tax return or 12‑month earnings history. (ncdhhs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your income is just over the limit, make sure the clinic counted only your household’s gross income and used the correct household size. If you’re on Medicaid/TANF/SNAP, remind them that makes you income‑eligible automatically. (ncdhhs.gov)

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Exactly What You Get: 2025 WIC Food Benefits

WIC food packages are set by USDA. The 2024 final rule changed some amounts and choices (more fruits/veggies and whole grains; standardized juice amounts; more cultural options). NC must follow these rules. (fns.usda.gov)

Monthly Cash Value Benefit (CVB) for Fruits & Vegetables through Sept 30, 2025

• Infant substitution (6–11 months): $11\ast \ast (half)or\ast \ast$22 (full) in place of jarred fruits/veggies. (fns.usda.gov)

Other Monthly Foods (maximums; women/children)

USDA’s snapshot below shows the main items (your clinic tailors these to you). (fns.usda.gov)

• Your exact items depend on whether you’re pregnant, postpartum, partially or fully breastfeeding, and your child’s age. Your nutritionist may swap items (like lactose‑free milk, tofu, whole‑grain options such as corn masa flour tortillas, brown rice, quinoa, etc.) to fit your needs. (fns.usda.gov)

Reality check:

• Don’t expect WIC to cover a full month of groceries. It’s meant to supplement. Use store sales and your CVB strategically (see shopping tips below). (fns.usda.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If a food doesn’t scan as WIC‑approved, check the NC Authorized Product List (APL) and the NC WIC Shopping Guide (English/Spanish). Ask the cashier to remove problem items and try a different brand or size. (ncdhhs.gov)

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How to Apply in North Carolina (Fastest Path First)

• Call or text 1‑844‑601‑6881 (text “wic” + your ZIP, e.g., “wic12345”) to match with your local clinic. Or use the WIC County Directory or submit the NC WIC Referral Form. Clinics should contact you within 20 days; certain priority groups within 10 days. (ncdhhs.gov)
• You can also enter your ZIP at SignUpWIC.com (USDA’s national locator) to find a nearby clinic if you’re unsure which office serves your address. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Bring these three proofs to your first certification appointment (for each person applying, when applicable): identity, NC residency, and income. Examples: driver’s license, birth certificate or hospital card (for new infants), current lease/utility bill, pay stubs, or proof you get Medicaid/TANF/SNAP. (ncdhhs.gov)

Required Documents (Quick Table)

Notes: If you have Medicaid, TANF, or SNAP, you meet WIC’s income rule and may not need to show pay stubs. (ncdhhs.gov)

Reality check:

• First appointments can run 45–90 minutes (height/weight, iron check, questions about diet/health, and benefits planning). Bring snacks, diapers, and something to keep kids busy.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you can’t get through to your county, text 1‑844‑601‑6881 or submit the Referral Form. If lines are backed up, try calling when offices open. If you don’t hear back within 20 days, call the NC DHHS Customer Service Center at 1‑800‑662‑7030 for help. (ncdhhs.gov)

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Timelines You Can Expect

• Callback after submitting the referral: within 20 days; within 10 days if you’re pregnant, have a newborn under 6 months, are experiencing homelessness, or are a migrant farmworker. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Certification period: varies (e.g., children often 6–12 months; breastfeeding/postpartum periods per federal rules). Your clinic will give you your next appointment date when you certify. (fns.usda.gov)
• eWIC card: typically issued at the first visit; your benefits are loaded to your eWIC account. Check balance via ebtEDGE (app/web) or by calling 1‑844‑230‑0813. (ncdhhs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your benefits don’t appear, call your clinic the same day. If your card is lost or demagnetized, request a replacement by calling 1‑844‑230‑0813 or ask your clinic to reissue. (ncdhhs.gov)

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Using Your eWIC Card (NC)

• Register your card in the ebtEDGE mobile app or at ebtEDGE.com to set your PIN, check your balance, see future benefits, view authorized stores, and order a replacement card. Help line: 1‑844‑230‑0813. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Shopping help: Use NC’s WIC Shopping Guide and the Authorized Product List to match sizes/brands. Cashiers can ring up WIC items first or mixed with other groceries—just watch the receipt to make sure WIC items deduct correctly. (ncdhhs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If a store says an item isn’t WIC‑eligible, compare the UPC to the NC APL list and try another brand/package size. If a store routinely has problems, report it to your clinic and use the Authorized WIC Vendors list to pick a different store. (ncdhhs.gov)

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2025 Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP)

Great for summer produce.

• Season: May 1 – Sept 30, 2025.
• Who: WIC‑eligible pregnant, postpartum, partially‑breastfeeding, breastfeeding women; children 2–4 years.
• Amount: $30 per eligible person for the 2025 season (as funding allows).
• Expiration: Benefits expire 30 days after issuance.
• Where to use: Authorized NC farmers’ markets (look for FMNP posters). (ncdhhs.gov)

Tip:

• Ask your clinic which nearby markets are participating this year; NC posts annual lists of participating markets and agencies. (ncdhhs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your county isn’t participating or you miss the 30‑day window, your regular monthly CVB (fruits/veggies) still works at authorized grocery stores. If you need produce now, call NC 211 (2‑1‑1 or 1‑888‑892‑1162) to find free produce distributions near you. (nc211.org)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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Application Checklist

• Proof of identity for you and each child applying (see list above).
• Proof you live in North Carolina (current bill, lease, or ID).
• Proof of income (pay stubs or tax return) OR current Medicaid/TANF/SNAP proof.
• Your schedule (be honest about work/childcare so the clinic can offer a workable appointment).
• Questions for the nutritionist (allergies, picky eating, iron concerns, breastfeeding support, formula issues).
• Download ebtEDGE and bring your phone to set your eWIC PIN after certification. (ncdhhs.gov)

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Shopping Tips That Stretch Your WIC

• Use the weekly sales and BOGO offers on WIC‑approved brands/sizes, especially for whole grains, cereal, and canned fish; maximize your CVB on in‑season produce. (Your APL/Shopping Guide helps you pick eligible items.) (ncdhhs.gov)
• Buy frozen vegetables and fruit with no added sugar/sauce—often cheaper and eligible. (fns.usda.gov)
• Check your balance before you shop so you don’t leave benefits unused—CVB resets monthly. (ncdhhs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you consistently hit checkout issues, switch to a different store from the Authorized WIC Vendors list and report repeated problems to your clinic. (ncdhhs.gov)

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Breastfeeding, Pumps, and Nutrition Help

• Every NC WIC agency offers breastfeeding promotion and support. Many have peer counselors and can issue manual or electric pumps when medically indicated. (ncdhhs.gov)
• The state launched BreastfeedNC.com with local support group directories and education. Ask your WIC clinic for a referral. (ncdhhs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your clinic doesn’t have a pump immediately, ask about loan programs and temporary solutions, and request a peer counselor callback. For medical issues (pain, mastitis), ask for referral to a lactation consultant promptly. (ncdhhs.gov)

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If You Move, Lose Your Card, or Have a Disaster

• Moving into NC from another state? Ask your old clinic for a “Verification of Certification” (VOC). NC clinics can transfer your benefits. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Lost/damaged card: Request a replacement via ebtEDGE or call 1‑844‑230‑0813 (24/7). (ncdhhs.gov)
• Disaster or power outage: NC WIC posts guidance and replacement instructions during emergencies. Keep your clinic’s number handy and check NC WIC news if severe weather hits. (ncdhhs.gov)

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Diverse Communities: Getting the Right Fit

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: WIC eligibility is based on pregnancy/parenting status, not marital status. You can request respectful name/pronoun use and private conversations during breastfeeding counseling. Clinics must provide services free of discrimination (see Nondiscrimination Statement). (ncdhhs.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or children with disabilities: Ask for reasonable accommodations (longer appointment, accessible exam room, communication supports). Interpreter/communication assistance line: 1‑866‑719‑0141 or 711 Relay. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: If you get Medicaid or SNAP, that counts for WIC income eligibility. WIC can also connect you to local veterans’ resources via NC 211. (nc211.org)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Immigration status does not affect WIC eligibility. WIC is not part of the public‑charge test. Use an interpreter if you prefer another language. (fns.usda.gov)
• Tribal‑specific resources: If you’re a member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) and prefer Tribal WIC, contact EBCI WIC at 828‑497‑7297 (toll‑free 1‑800‑248‑6967). (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
• Rural single moms: If transportation is hard, ask about phone appointments, uploading documents via the MyNCWIC Portal, and clinics with flexible hours. Portal info is here: MyNCWIC Portal for participants. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Single fathers caring for kids under 5: Dads, grandparents, and foster parents can apply for the child’s WIC benefits. (fns.usda.gov)
• Language access: WIC offers free interpretation. If you struggle to find a bilingual clinic, call 1‑866‑719‑0141 or NC 211 (1‑888‑892‑1162) for help. (ncdhhs.gov, nc211.org)

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Local Food and Support (When Money Is Tight Right Now)

• NC 211 (United Way): Dial 2‑1‑1 or 1‑888‑892‑1162 to find food pantries, diapers, rent/utility help, and transportation across all 100 counties—24/7, multilingual. (nc211.org)
• Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina (Raleigh + branches): 919‑875‑0707; site lists food distributions and partner pantries. (foodbankcenc.org)
• Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina (Charlotte region): 704‑376‑1785. (secondharvestmetrolina.org)
• Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest NC (Winston‑Salem/Triad): 336‑784‑5770. (secondharvestnwnc.org)
• MANNA FoodBank (Western NC): Food Helpline 828‑367‑9456 (call/text). (mannafoodbank.org)

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Tables You Can Screenshot

Table: FY 2025 CVB and Infant Substitution

Source: USDA WIC Policy Memo WIC PM #2024‑7 (FY 2025 CVB amounts). (fns.usda.gov)

Table: Key NC WIC Appointment Milestones

Source: NC “Apply for WIC” page (callback rules). (ncdhhs.gov)

Table: Maximum Monthly Allowances (Selected Items)

Source: USDA WIC “Maximum Monthly Allowances.” Your clinic can tailor based on needs. (fns.usda.gov)

Table: 2025 FMNP (Farmers’ Markets)

Source: NC WIC FMNP 2025 Participant Flyer. (ncdhhs.gov)

Table: Who to Call

Sources: NC DHHS WIC pages; EBCI contact. (ncdhhs.gov, fns-prod.azureedge.us)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid (and Fixes)

• Waiting for the “perfect” paperwork. If you’re missing a document, call anyway. Clinics often accept temporary proofs and will tell you exactly what to bring next time. Plan B: Submit the Referral Form so the clinic contacts you and tells you what they’ll accept. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Not mentioning Medicaid/TANF/SNAP. If you already get these, you’re income‑eligible. Don’t dig for pay stubs if you can show your current program letter or card. Plan B: Ask the clinic to verify adjunctive eligibility. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Leaving CVB dollars unused. They don’t roll over monthly. Plan B: Set a calendar reminder before the month ends and check ebtEDGE to confirm your balance. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Buying the right food in the wrong size. Plan B: Keep the NC WIC Shopping Guide handy and compare UPCs to the APL before checkout. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Missing calls from an unknown number. Clinics may call from different lines. Plan B: After submitting the referral, save your local clinic number and check voicemail daily; if no contact by 20 days, call the state at 1‑800‑662‑7030. (ncdhhs.gov)

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Real‑World Examples

• You work part‑time, your 3‑year‑old is picky, and money runs out before payday. With WIC, your child gets a monthly $26 CVB for fruits/veggies, cereal, milk, eggs, beans/peanut butter, and whole grains. A WIC nutritionist can swap lactose‑free milk or recommend higher‑iron cereals to match what your child will actually eat. (fns.usda.gov)
• You delivered 4 months ago and are partially breastfeeding. You’ll receive a postpartum package (to 6 months postpartum) and your baby gets infant foods appropriate to age. If you want to increase breastfeeding, ask for peer counseling and pump options. (fns.usda.gov, ncdhhs.gov)
• You just moved to NC. Bring a VOC from your last state or ask your old clinic to fax it. NC can transfer you without starting from scratch. (ncdhhs.gov)

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FAQs (North Carolina, 2025)

1. What are the NC WIC income limits in 2025?
   See the table above. Example: family of 4 up to $59,478/year\ast \ast (or\ast \ast$4,957/month). Effective June 2, 2025. (ncdhhs.gov)
2. I already have Medicaid. Do I need pay stubs?
   Usually no—Medicaid makes you income‑eligible for WIC. You still need the nutrition check. (ncdhhs.gov)
3. How fast will the clinic contact me if I submit the online referral?
   Within 20 days (priority groups 10 days). (ncdhhs.gov)
4. How much are the fruits/veggies benefits in FY 2025?
   Child $26\ast \ast ;pregnant/postpartum\ast \ast$47; mostly/fully breastfeeding $52 per month. Through Sept 30, 2025. (fns.usda.gov)
5. What if I lose my eWIC card?
   Call 1‑844‑230‑0813 (24/7) or request a replacement via ebtEDGE. (ncdhhs.gov)
6. Can I use WIC at farmers’ markets?
   Yes—if you get FMNP benefits. In 2025, that’s $30 per eligible person, May–Sept, 30‑day expiration. Groceries and farmers’ market benefits are separate. (ncdhhs.gov)
7. I’m not a U.S. citizen. Does WIC affect immigration status?
   No. WIC is not counted in public‑charge decisions. (fns.usda.gov)
8. Can dads or grandparents apply for kids?
   Yes, any caregiver of eligible children under 5 can apply. (fns.usda.gov)
9. Which stores accept WIC?
   Use the Authorized WIC Vendors list (updated Feb 2025) to find participating stores statewide. (ncdhhs.gov)
10. Where can I get help today while I wait for my appointment?
    Call NC 211 at 2‑1‑1 or 1‑888‑892‑1162 to find local food pantries and other help. (nc211.org)

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Reality Checks, Warnings, and Pro Tips

• Appointment slots fill up fast after holidays and during severe weather. Book now, even if your paperwork isn’t perfect; you can bring missing items later.
• CVB amounts don’t roll over; build a monthly “produce plan” and shop early in the month.
• Not every store has perfect WIC shelf tags. Always scan or compare with the APL.
• If a clinic seems full, ask about nearby clinics serving your county or request a phone appointment and upload documents via the MyNCWIC Portal. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Save your receipts. If something didn’t deduct correctly, call the store same day; if unresolved, call your clinic.

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Resources by Region (Start Here)

• Statewide: NC WIC County Directory (map + contacts). For quick matching, call/text 1‑844‑601‑6881. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Tribal: EBCI WIC Program (Cherokee) – 828‑497‑7297 (toll‑free 1‑800‑248‑6967). (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
• Food banks: Central & Eastern NC (919‑875‑0707), Metrolina/Charlotte (704‑376‑1785), Northwest NC (336‑784‑5770), Western NC/MANNA (828‑367‑9456). (foodbankcenc.org, secondharvestmetrolina.org, secondharvestnwnc.org, mannafoodbank.org)

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Quick Wins at the Register

• Buy eligible store brands first (often cheapest and always WIC‑approved).
• For CVB, mix fresh, frozen, and canned (no added sugar/sauce) to keep produce on hand all month. (fns.usda.gov)
• Use ebtEDGE to confirm what’s left before you head to the store. (ncdhhs.gov)

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“What To Do If This Doesn’t Work” — One‑Page Plan B

• Can’t get an appointment? Text 1‑844‑601‑6881 and submit the Referral Form. If no call within 20 days, call 1‑800‑662‑7030. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Benefits not loaded or item won’t scan? Check ebtEDGE, compare with the APL, and call your clinic. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Urgent food gap? Call NC 211 (1‑888‑892‑1162) for nearest pantry today. (nc211.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from North Carolina 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, dollar amounts, and deadlines can change at any time. Always verify with your local WIC agency or the North Carolina WIC website before you act.
• Health and nutrition advice here is general information, not medical advice. Talk with your clinician and WIC nutritionist about your specific situation.
• We use secure methods to keep our website safe, but you should avoid sharing sensitive personal information via public Wi‑Fi or in online forms you do not recognize as official (.gov/.usda.gov or ncdhhs.gov).

Official NC WIC pages for reference:

• My WIC (eligibility, income chart, contact options). (ncdhhs.gov)
• Apply for WIC (steps, documents, timelines). (ncdhhs.gov)
• FY 2025 Cash‑Value Benefit amounts (USDA). (fns.usda.gov)
• Maximum monthly allowances (USDA snapshot). (fns.usda.gov)
• NC eWIC (ebtEDGE, PIN, balance, replacement). (ncdhhs.gov)
• 2025 NC WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (participant flyer). (ncdhhs.gov)
• NC Authorized WIC Vendors (Feb 2025 list). (ncdhhs.gov)
• Public charge and WIC (USDA summaries). (fns.usda.gov)
• NC 211 statewide help line. (nc211.org)

Helpful extras:

• BreastfeedNC.com announcement (NCDHHS). (ncdhhs.gov)
• EBCI WIC program contact (USDA directory). (fns-prod.azureedge.us)

If any link doesn’t open, use the site’s search bar (ncdhhs.gov or fns.usda.gov) and the exact page title above.

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