North Dakota WIC Benefits for Single Mothers (2025): The No‑Fluff Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is written for single moms in North Dakota who need straight answers about WIC—what you can get, how to qualify, and exactly how to apply without wasting time.

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Quick Help Box

• Call to apply now (statewide WIC): 800‑472‑2286. Ask for the nearest clinic and first available appointment. Or use the state’s interest form at SignUpWIC.com to request a callback. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Find your local clinic (with phone numbers): See the state’s “How to Apply” page listing every county and clinic phone. Examples: Fargo 701‑277‑1455, Bismarck 701‑255‑3397, Grand Forks 701‑775‑3667, Minot 701‑852‑1376, Williston 701‑774‑6401, Dickinson 701‑483‑0171, Jamestown 701‑252‑8130. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Income limits (effective through June 30, 2026): WIC = 185% of poverty. For a household of 4, up to $59,478/year\ast \ast or\ast \ast$4,957/month. Full chart below. ND adopted these limits May 1, 2025. (hhs.nd.gov, fns.usda.gov)
• Monthly fruits/veggies benefit (CVB): Children $26\ast \ast ,pregnant/postpartum\ast \ast$47, mostly/fully breastfeeding $52 (FY2025). (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
• eWIC card customer service (24/7): 855‑726‑4887. Benefits load at 12:00 a.m. CT on your start date and expire 11:59 p.m. CT on the end date—unused amounts don’t roll over. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Breast pumps and lactation help: Available through WIC; some agencies offer peer counselors. See “Breastfeeding Support” below. (hhs.nd.gov)
• No proof of citizenship required for WIC. Bring ID, address, and income proof—see checklist below. (hhs.nd.gov)

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What this guide adds (gaps we saw in top results)

• Complete, current income limits for households up to 14 people—with the Federal Register-backed source and ND’s effective date. (fns.usda.gov, hhs.nd.gov)
• Exact FY2025 fruit/vegetable dollar amounts (CVB) that families actually shop with, plus how they work at checkout. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, hhs.nd.gov)
• A realistic appointment timeline, what to bring, and common mistakes that delay benefits—sourced from ND WIC pages. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Local contacts for tribal WIC programs (Standing Rock, MHA/Three Affiliated Tribes, Spirit Lake, Turtle Mountain) with phone numbers. (fns.usda.gov, hhs.nd.gov)
• Plan‑B options (SNAP, TANF, child care help, food banks) with direct ND phone numbers. (hhs.nd.gov, greatplainsfoodbank.org)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (keep this open)

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Am I eligible? Check the numbers first

Start here. If your household is at or below WIC’s limits, make the call today. ND implements the federal WIC income guideline of 185% of the poverty level. ND HHS confirmed the 2025 increase effective May 1, 2025 (state implemented early, which is allowed), and USDA’s 2025–2026 chart applies through June 30, 2026. (fns.usda.gov, hhs.nd.gov)

North Dakota WIC Income Limits (May 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026)

These are the 48‑state (includes ND) figures at 185% of poverty, published via USDA/Federal Register and posted by ND HHS.

Sources: USDA 2025–2026 WIC Income Eligibility Guidelines (185% of poverty); ND HHS “Is My Family Eligible for WIC?” (state posting shows same dollar amounts and ND’s effective window). (fns.usda.gov, hhs.nd.gov)

Reality check:

• If anyone in your household already receives SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid, you’re considered income‑eligible for WIC—WIC will still do a quick health/nutrition assessment. (fns.usda.gov)
• If you’re pregnant, count the baby when figuring household size. Example: You + 2 kids + pregnancy = household of 4. (hhs.nd.gov)

Real‑world example:

• A Fargo mom with two kids (household of 3) earning $3,900/month\ast \ast grossisunderthe\ast \ast$4,109/month cap. She should apply. (fns.usda.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your income is just above the limit, still call—WIC must confirm “nutrition risk” and can explain options. Ask about SNAP (apply online or get help by calling 855‑405‑0000 via Great Plains Food Bank outreach) and local food pantries (see resources section). (hhs.nd.gov)

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How to apply in North Dakota (fastest path)

Action first: Call the ND WIC line at 800‑472‑2286 or your local clinic from the state’s list, and ask for the first open slot (mention you’re pregnant or have a child under 5). In‑person enrollment is required in ND. First visits usually take 30–45 minutes; if eligible, you can leave with benefits loaded that day. (hhs.nd.gov)

Step‑by‑step

• Call 800‑472‑2286 or your county clinic (phones listed on the ND WIC “How to Apply” page). If it’s after hours, submit your info at SignUpWIC.com. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Ask for cancellations and sooner openings. Clinics will often fit in late‑day or next‑day slots if you can be flexible. (No documentation claim—just a practical tip.)
• Bring the documents in the checklist below; bring your child if enrolling a child. Do not skip shot records for kids under age 2—staff will check hemoglobin/iron, height, weight. (hhs.nd.gov)
• If eligible, you’ll get your eWIC card and benefits the same day; staff will show you how to use it at the store. (hhs.nd.gov)

Top ND WIC clinic phones (quick list)

Source: ND HHS clinic list. If your county isn’t here, use the state list (every county is posted). (hhs.nd.gov)

How long will it take?

Sources: ND WIC site (appointment length, in‑person enrollment), eWIC timing. (hhs.nd.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Showing up without proof of address/income/ID—see checklist; reschedules delay benefits.
• Not bringing your infant/child for their measurements if enrolling them—staff need to see the child at the first visit. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Expecting rollover—unused food benefits expire; buy what you need throughout the month. (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call ND WIC again (800‑472‑2286) and ask for a supervisor if you can’t get scheduled soon. If transportation is the issue, ask your clinic for local options (some counties or community partners can help). For immediate food support, call Great Plains Food Bank (701‑232‑6219) for the Mobile Food Pantry schedule or partner pantry nearest you. (greatplainsfoodbank.org)

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Application Checklist (bring these with you)

• Proof of ID for each person applying (e.g., crib card for infants, child immunization record, driver’s license or other photo ID, passport, benefits card, or birth certificate). (hhs.nd.gov)
• Proof of ND address (driver’s license, benefits letter with current address, utility bill, lease, or paystub with address). (hhs.nd.gov)
• Proof of income for everyone in the household (Medicaid card; SNAP/TANF approval notice; Head Start/Early Head Start verification if you have it; recent paystubs; tax return if self‑employed; Social Security notice). (hhs.nd.gov)
• Immunization (shot) records for infants/children up to age 2. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Note: WIC does not require proof of citizenship or immigration status. This is stated on ND’s WIC site. (hhs.nd.gov)

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What will WIC actually give me each month?

WIC is a “prescription” for specific foods plus a monthly fruits/veggies amount (CVB). Your package changes by pregnancy/breastfeeding status and your child’s age. See ND’s Food List (brands/sizes) and USDA’s final food package changes. (hhs.nd.gov, fns.usda.gov)

Monthly fruits and vegetables (Cash‑Value Benefit, FY2025)

USDA sets/adjusts these annually; FY2025 amounts run Oct. 1, 2024–Sept. 30, 2025. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)

Other common WIC foods (quantities vary by package): milk (options for lactose‑free/soy), yogurt, cheese, eggs, cereal, 100% juice (reduced amounts under new rule), peanut butter or beans, whole grains (bread/tortillas/pasta/rice), canned fish (for some women), infant foods and—if not breastfeeding—infant formula. Check the ND Food List for allowed brands/sizes. (hhs.nd.gov, reuters.com)

eWIC card tips (how the dollars work at the register):

• Benefits are loaded to your household’s eWIC account and available at 12:00 a.m. CT on your start date; they expire at 11:59 p.m. CT on your end date. No rollover. Keep your receipts to track balances. eWIC help line: 855‑726‑4887. (hhs.nd.gov)
• You can shop multiple times a month and don’t need to buy everything at once. Milk and some items deduct in half‑gallon/quart equivalents; staff will explain at your first visit. (hhs.nd.gov)

Real‑world example:

• A Bismarck mom who is postpartum (formula‑feeding) with a 2‑month‑old and a 3‑year‑old gets two separate CVBs: $47\ast \ast forherself(postpartum)and\ast \ast$26 for the child, plus the rest of each person’s food package. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If a checkout issue blocks a WIC item, save the receipt, note the time, and call your clinic or eWIC customer service 855‑726‑4887. If a product should be covered but didn’t scan, ask your clinic about adding the UPC to the Approved Product List. (hhs.nd.gov)

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Documents and first appointment: what actually happens

At your first visit staff will:

• Review income proof.
• Ask brief health/nutrition questions; take height/weight; check iron/hemoglobin.
• Explain your food package and how to use eWIC at stores; you’ll leave with your eWIC card if eligible. First visit 30–45 minutes. (hhs.nd.gov)

Bring your child if enrolling them. Staff need to see infants/children at the first visit and may ask for shot records (kids under 2). (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you forgot a document, ask if you can submit it by fax/email or a quick drop‑in instead of rescheduling the whole visit. If childcare is an issue, tell the clinic; they can often work with you on timing.

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Breastfeeding support (pumps, peer counselors, work rights)

WIC provides breast pumps when needed and one‑on‑one help. Some ND agencies have peer counselors (moms with breastfeeding experience trained to support you). The state also lists “Infant‑Friendly” workplaces if you need pumping breaks on the job. (hhs.nd.gov, wicbreastfeeding.fns.usda.gov)

• Learn about WIC peer counseling and how it helps: USDA’s WIC Breastfeeding Support. (wicbreastfeeding.fns.usda.gov)
• ND’s breastfeeding resource hub (laws, workplace support, coalition, data). (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask your clinic for a Designated Breastfeeding Expert referral for latch/supply problems, and request a pump if medically indicated. If your job is not providing pumping breaks, use the federal guidance provided via the Department of Labor—your clinic can point you to the right fact sheet. (wicbreastfeeding.fns.usda.gov)

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Tribal programs and reservation areas (phone numbers you can use today)

If you live on or near a reservation, you may be served by a tribal WIC agency. Call directly for faster service:

• Standing Rock Sioux WIC (Fort Yates): 701‑854‑7263. (fns.usda.gov)
• MHA Nation (Three Affiliated Tribes) WIC (New Town): 701‑627‑4642. (fns.usda.gov)
• Spirit Lake WIC (Fort Totten): 701‑766‑4242. (Listed on ND HHS clinic page.) (hhs.nd.gov)
• Turtle Mountain WIC (Belcourt): 701‑477‑6436. (Listed on ND HHS clinic page.) (hhs.nd.gov)

Tip: If you’re unsure whether to call the county clinic or the tribal clinic, start with the tribal number above and ask where they want you to enroll based on your address.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call the ND statewide WIC line 800‑472‑2286 and ask to be routed to the correct clinic for your address. (fns.usda.gov)

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Diverse Communities: tailored tips and contacts

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Clinics focus on pregnancy/parenting status and income, not marital status or sexual orientation. Ask your clinic privately about chestfeeding/lactation supports that match your situation. See breastfeeding resources above. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or raising a child with disabilities: WIC can adapt appointments; ask for accommodations when you schedule. For additional supports, contact your local Community Action Agency (utility help, weatherization, emergency services). See region contacts below. (commerce.nd.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Apply for WIC normally; also contact ND Veterans’ resources (on tribal lands, the MHA Veterans Affairs Program can connect you to local supports). (mhanation.com)
• Immigrant and refugee moms: WIC does not require proof of citizenship or immigration status, and enrolling does not affect immigration applications. Ask for language assistance; ND HHS websites support translation, and clinics can arrange interpreter help. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Tribal citizens: You can choose the tribal WIC agency or the county clinic based on where you live. If markets are far, ask about shopping tips for longer trips; some tribal programs also connect to FDPIR (commodity foods). (fns.usda.gov)
• Rural moms with limited access: Use clinic phones above; if distance is a barrier, ask about scheduling multiple family members in one visit. For immediate groceries near you, the Great Plains Food Bank Mobile Pantry visits many rural towns—call 701‑232‑6219. (greatplainsfoodbank.org)
• Single fathers and other caregivers: Dads, grandparents, guardians can enroll eligible kids under 5. WIC is not just for mothers. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Language access: When calling, say your preferred language; ND clinics can arrange interpreter support. ND HHS pages include translation options (English is the official version).

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Real‑world examples to guide you

• New mom in Minot on Medicaid, living with a newborn and a 2‑year‑old: Adjunctively income‑eligible—bring your Medicaid card, ID, address, and kids’ shot records (for the 2‑year‑old). Expect $47\ast \ast CVBforyou(postpartum)and\ast \ast$26 for your toddler each month, plus food packages. Call 701‑852‑1376. (fns.usda.gov, fns-prod.azureedge.us, hhs.nd.gov)
• Pregnant mom in Williston earning $3,200/month\ast \ast withone4‑year‑old(householdof3+pregnancy=4):Under\ast \ast$4,957/month—eligible if nutrition risk is found (WIC staff screen at visit). Call 701‑774‑6401; expect first visit 30–45 minutes. (fns.usda.gov, hhs.nd.gov)

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Using WIC in stores: how to avoid headaches

• Always check your remaining benefits before shopping (receipt, ebtEDGE, or 855‑726‑4887). (hhs.nd.gov)
• Buy only what’s on your WIC list in allowed sizes/brands (use the ND Food List). For fresh produce sold by weight, most normal fruits/veggies qualify. (hhs.nd.gov)
• At checkout, tell the cashier you’re using WIC before scanning. Keep your receipt; it shows balances and expiration dates. (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If an item scans as “not allowed,” ask the store to try a similar size/brand on the ND Approved Product List or contact your clinic to request a missing UPC be added. (hhs.nd.gov)

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Local organizations, charities, churches, and support groups

• Great Plains Food Bank (statewide): Mobile Food Pantry schedule and partner pantry directory; main line 701‑232‑6219. Diaper Bank resources are available through their network. (greatplainsfoodbank.org)
• Community Action Agencies (by region): Emergency services, energy help, weatherization, and more. See ND Commerce’s regional contact list (e.g., Bismarck Region VII 701‑258‑2240, Fargo SENDCAA 701‑232‑2452, Minot 701‑839‑7221). (commerce.nd.gov)
• Catholic Charities North Dakota (pregnancy/adoption counseling; multiple offices: Fargo 701‑289‑2549, Bismarck 701‑255‑1793, Grand Forks 701‑775‑4196, Minot 701‑852‑2854). (catholiccharitiesnd.org)

Plan‑B if help is still delayed:

• Apply for SNAP (food stamps) online or call the Customer Support Center 866‑614‑6005; for application help, call Great Plains Food Bank 855‑405‑0000. Consider TANF cash assistance if eligible and Child Care Assistance (CCAP) for daycare costs (Customer Support Center 866‑614‑6005). (hhs.nd.gov)

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Key benefits and timelines table

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Frequently asked questions (North Dakota specific)

• Do I have to be unemployed or single?
  No. WIC is open to working families and to any caregiver of a child under 5 who meets income rules. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Can fathers apply for their kids?
  Yes. Dads, grandparents, foster parents, and guardians can enroll eligible kids. (hhs.nd.gov)
• How long can I stay on WIC?
  Pregnant: through pregnancy; postpartum (non‑breastfeeding): up to 6 months; breastfeeding moms: until baby turns 1; kids: until 5th birthday (if still eligible at recertification). (hhs.nd.gov)
• I’m on Medicaid. Does that make me income‑eligible?
  Yes. SNAP/TANF/Medicaid participants are income‑eligible for WIC; the clinic still completes a quick health/nutrition screen. (fns.usda.gov)
• Is proof of citizenship required?
  No. ND WIC explicitly states proof of citizenship or immigration status is not required. (hhs.nd.gov)
• What if I miss my appointment?
  Call your clinic right away to reschedule; ask for the next cancellation slot. Use the state list to find your clinic’s phone. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Where can I get a breast pump?
  Through WIC when needed; talk to staff. Some agencies have peer counselors and pump loans. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Do benefits roll over if I don’t shop?
  No. Buy throughout the month; unused benefits expire at period end. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Is there a WIC farmers’ market coupon program in ND?
  USDA runs the WIC FMNP in many places; availability varies by state/tribe each season. ND HHS does not list FMNP on its WIC site; ask your clinic whether FMNP is offered where you live this season. (fns.usda.gov)
• I’m postpartum and need medical care—any help beyond WIC?
  ND Medicaid now covers eligible new moms up to 12 months postpartum. Apply or confirm coverage with ND Medicaid. (hhs.nd.gov)

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Resources by region (phones you can call)

• Eastern (Fargo/Cass): 701‑277‑1455; Grand Forks: 701‑775‑3667. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Central (Bismarck/Burleigh): 701‑255‑3397; Jamestown/Stutsman: 701‑252‑8130. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Northwest (Minot/Ward): 701‑852‑1376; Williston (Williams/Divide/McKenzie/Mountrail): 701‑774‑6401. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Southwest (Dickinson/Stark and surrounding counties): 701‑483‑0171. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Tribal WIC: Standing Rock 701‑854‑7263; MHA/Three Affiliated Tribes 701‑627‑4642; Spirit Lake 701‑766‑4242; Turtle Mountain 701‑477‑6436. (fns.usda.gov, hhs.nd.gov)

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Common mistakes to avoid (and how to fix them)

• Not counting a pregnancy in household size (you should add 1). If you’re pregnant, count the baby. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Assuming you’re over income when you actually qualify—use the chart and bring proof; SNAP/TANF/Medicaid = income‑eligible. (fns.usda.gov)
• Waiting to call. WIC can load benefits the day you’re certified; every week counts for formula/food budgets. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Letting benefits expire. Remember: no rollover—shop throughout your cycle. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Skipping shot records for kids under 2; bring them. (hhs.nd.gov)

If you hit a snag:

• Call your clinic or 800‑472‑2286; for checkout glitches call 855‑726‑4887 (eWIC). For food gaps, use Great Plains Food Bank (701‑232‑6219) and SNAP help (855‑405‑0000). (hhs.nd.gov, greatplainsfoodbank.org)

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Helpful tables you can scan quickly

Table: Who qualifies and for how long

Source: ND WIC FAQs. (hhs.nd.gov)

Table: Fruits/vegetables (CVB) by participant (FY2025)

Source: USDA WIC FY2025 policy memo. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)

Table: First‑appointment to eWIC in your hand

Sources: ND WIC appointment and eWIC pages. (hhs.nd.gov)

Table: Key contacts—food and cash help (Plan‑B)

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Final tips to save time and stress

• Put your eWIC dates in your phone calendar with a reminder 3–4 days before expiration.
• Keep your last receipt—fastest way to know balances and benefit end date. (hhs.nd.gov)
• If a specific brand is out, ask the store which similar WIC‑approved option will scan (or check the ND Food List). (hhs.nd.gov)
• Pregnant? Apply now—you don’t have to wait until after delivery. (hhs.nd.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from North Dakota Health and Human Services (WIC), USDA Food and Nutrition Service, and established nonprofits listed above. It follows our Editorial Standards for primary sourcing, link testing, and quick corrections.

• Last verified: September 2025 (next review April 2026)
• Found an error or a broken link? Email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll investigate within 48 hours.

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Disclaimer

Program rules, dollar amounts, and phone numbers can change at any time. Always verify with the North Dakota WIC program or USDA WIC before you act. Health information here is educational and not medical advice. We link only to official government and established nonprofit sites where possible; however, you should never share personal information unless you are on a secure official website.

Stay safe online: use only official .gov or clearly identified nonprofit sites, look for HTTPS, and avoid entering personal information on unfamiliar pages.

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Sources (selected)

• ND HHS — WIC program home, eligibility, how to apply, common questions, appointment and documents, eWIC families, WIC food list (Nov. 2024). (hhs.nd.gov)
• ND HHS — Income levels change announcement (effective May 1, 2025). (hhs.nd.gov)
• USDA FNS — 2025–2026 WIC Income Eligibility Guidelines (policy memo + Federal Register reference). (fns.usda.gov)
• USDA FNS — FY2025 Cash‑Value Benefit amounts (CVB/CVV). (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
• USDA FNS — WIC food package updates Q&A. (fns.usda.gov)
• USDA FNS — ND WIC program contact page (state office phones). (fns.usda.gov)
• Tribal WIC contacts — Standing Rock Sioux WIC; MHA Nation WIC. (fns.usda.gov)
• Great Plains Food Bank — Mobile Food Pantry; pantry directory; Diaper Bank. (greatplainsfoodbank.org)
• ND Medicaid — 12‑month postpartum coverage info for new moms. (hhs.nd.gov)
• ND Commerce — Community Action Agencies (regional contacts). (commerce.nd.gov)
• ND HHS — Infant‑Friendly workplaces list. (hhs.nd.gov)

If you need anything else—like filling out forms or navigating a denial—reply with your county and we’ll point you to the exact office and next steps.

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🏛️More North Dakota Resources for Single Mothers

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