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WIC Benefits for Single Mothers in Texas

Texas WIC Benefits for Single Mothers: The No‑BS Guide You Can Use Today

Last updated: September 2025

Quick note on our approach: This guide uses only official state and federal sources and established Texas nonprofits. Every dollar amount and rule is verified and linked. If anything here looks off, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll fix it fast.


Quick Help Box

  • Apply online in minutes: Start your Texas WIC application. If you don’t get a call within 3 business days, contact your clinic or call 800‑942‑3678. (texaswic.org)
  • Call Texas WIC: 800‑942‑3678 (Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.). Live chat and texting are available too. Texas WIC Contact Options. (texaswic.org)
  • Find your nearest clinic: Use the official Texas WIC Office Locator. Example numbers: Austin WIC line 512‑972‑4942; Dallas WIC line 214‑670‑7200; Houston (Alief) WIC 832‑393‑5427; RGV (McAllen/Pharr) 956‑292‑7752 / 956‑781‑4920. (office.texaswic.org)
  • Fruits/Vegetables cash value benefit (CVB) per month right now: Children 26∗∗,Pregnant/Postpartum∗∗26**, Pregnant/Postpartum **47, Fully/Mostly Breastfeeding $52. See USDA FY2025 memo. (fns.usda.gov)
  • 24/7 breastfeeding help: Texas Lactation Support Hotline 855‑550‑6667 (free; for all Texas families). Hotline and lactation centers. (texaswic.org)
  • Store finder for WIC card: Search 2,000+ approved stores with the official Texas WIC Store Finder. (texaswic.org)

Why this guide beats the average search result

  • You get the exact 2025 income limits used in Texas, not old charts.
  • We link the current fruit/veg amounts (CVB) and what foods you actually get.
  • You’ll see clear timelines (like “get a callback in 3 business days”) and real phone numbers for major Texas areas.
  • We include the farmers’ market vouchers Texas families can get on top of regular WIC.
  • Every official link is labeled so you know exactly where you’re going.

What WIC covers in Texas (and how much produce money you get)

Most people think of WIC as “formula.” It’s much more. WIC gives a monthly food package for pregnant/postpartum women, infants, and children under 5, plus nutrition classes and breastfeeding support. The dollar part you’ll see month‑to‑month is the fruits and vegetables Cash‑Value Benefit (CVB). For FY 2025, USDA kept the increased CVB in place:

  • Children (1–4 years): $26/month
  • Pregnant and postpartum participants: $47/month
  • Fully or mostly breastfeeding participants: $52/month

Reference: USDA’s FY2025 CVB memo. These amounts are adjusted annually each October; for FY2025 they did not change from FY2024. (fns.usda.gov)

Beyond CVB, WIC gives specific foods (milk, eggs, cereal, whole grains, beans/peanut butter, canned fish for fully breastfeeding moms, etc.) with federal maximum monthly allowances by category. See highlights below from USDA’s current rules. (fns.usda.gov)

What this means for you: your WIC card won’t show a single “total” dollar value like SNAP. You’ll see CVB dollars plus quantities of other foods that are set by your food package.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your clinic set a package that doesn’t fit your family (e.g., lactose intolerance, cultural foods), ask WIC to tailor your package—this is allowed under federal rules and Texas policy. If you use formula and breastmilk, WIC can tailor infant formula amounts too. (wicbreastfeeding.fns.usda.gov, texaswic.org)

Who qualifies for Texas WIC (the short version)

  • You must live in Texas (citizenship not required).
  • Be pregnant, postpartum, breastfeeding, an infant, or a child under age 5.
  • Meet income limits (or be on Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF, which makes you automatically income‑eligible).
  • A brief health screening (height/weight, iron/health questions) must show a nutrition need—this is standard and done at the appointment.

Official: USDA WIC Eligibility; Texas WIC Apply page. (fns.usda.gov, texaswic.org)

Immigration/public charge: WIC is a non‑cash nutrition program and is not considered for public charge by USCIS. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen to get Texas WIC for yourself or your children. (uscis.gov, fns.usda.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a staffer tells you WIC affects immigration, ask for a supervisor and share USCIS’ page on public charge exclusions for noncash benefits; if needed, call the Texas WIC line 800‑942‑3678 and ask them to note the issue. (uscis.gov)

2025–2026 Texas WIC income limits (effective July 1, 2025)

These are the official federal WIC Income Eligibility Guidelines adopted by Texas WIC for July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026 (185% of poverty). If you’re on Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF, you’re already income‑eligible; you can skip this chart. (federalregister.gov, texaswic.org)

Table 1. Texas WIC Income Limits (Gross income before taxes)

Household Size Monthly Annual
1 $2,413 $28,953
2 $3,261 $39,128
3 $4,109 $49,303
4 $4,957 $59,478
5 $5,805 $69,653
6 $6,653 $79,828

Source: Federal Register (90 FR 11598) and Texas WIC “Apply” page updated July 2025. Note: Count your unborn baby(ies) in household size. (govinfo.gov, texaswic.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re just over the limit, still apply. Income is assessed for the household and there are allowable ways to document fluctuating/self‑employment income. Bring pay stubs for the last 30 days (or other proof below). Texas WIC can certify “adjunctive” eligibility if you or your child are on Medicaid/SNAP/TANF. (texaswic.org)

Exactly what foods you can get (and how much)

USDA sets maximum monthly allowances for WIC foods. Texas follows those rules and then tells you which brands/forms are allowed in the Texas WIC Shopping Guide. Your exact benefits are tailored to you (pregnant, postpartum, breastfeeding, age of child, etc.). (fns.usda.gov, texaswic.org)

Table 2. Cash‑Value Benefit (CVB) for fruits/veggies (FY2025)

Participant CVB per month
Children (1–4 yrs) $26
Pregnant & Postpartum $47
Fully/Mostly Breastfeeding $52

Source: USDA FY2025 CVV/B amounts. (fns.usda.gov)

Table 3. Key monthly food allowances for women and children (not all items)

Food Children 12–23 mo Children 2–4 yrs Pregnant Postpartum Fully Breastfeeding
Milk (quarts) 12 14 16 16 16
Juice (fl oz) 64 64 64 64 64
Eggs (dozen) 1 1 1 1 2
Cereal (oz) 36 36 36 36 36
Whole wheat bread (oz) 24 24 48 48 48
Canned fish (oz) — — 10 10 20
Fruit/veg CVB $26 $26 $47 $47 $52

Source: USDA WIC maximum monthly allowances. (fns.usda.gov)

Table 4. Infant formula and baby food maximums (examples)

Infant feeding 0–3 months 4–5 months 6–11 months
Fully formula‑fed: formula (reconstituted fl oz) up to 806 fl oz up to 884 fl oz up to 624 fl oz
Partially breastfed: formula (reconstituted fl oz) up to 364 fl oz up to 442 fl oz up to 312 fl oz
Fully breastfed: infant meats — — 40 oz
All: infant fruits/veggies (baby food) — — 128 oz

Source: USDA WIC infant maximum monthly allowances (tailoring allowed based on individual need). (fns.usda.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your baby needs a therapeutic or metabolic formula, your clinician must complete the Texas WIC Medical Request form (there are different forms). Ask your pediatrician to fill it out and fax it to your clinic. (texaswic.org)

How to apply (fastest route)

  • Start online: Apply for Texas WIC. If you don’t hear back within 3 business days, call your local clinic or 800‑942‑3678. (texaswic.org)
  • Or call right now: 800‑942‑3678 to schedule your first appointment. You can also text Texas WIC staff at 855‑960‑4551, live‑chat, or use the Office Locator to call a clinic directly. Contact Texas WIC. (texaswic.org)
  • Bring documents to your first visit. See checklist below (Texas WIC lists exact examples). (texaswic.org)
  • Download the free myWIC app to upload documents ahead of time, manage appointments, view benefits, and lock your card if it’s lost. myWIC features. (texaswic.org)

Application checklist (bring as many as you can)

  • Each person applying (mom, baby, children).
  • Photo ID(s) or other acceptable ID for you and each child: driver’s license, Medicaid/SNAP/TANF letter, Social Security card, birth certificate, hospital papers, school or work ID, passport, immunization record.
  • Proof of Texas address (not a P.O. box): utility bill, lease/rent receipt or landlord letter, Medicaid/SNAP/TANF letter, or shelter letter. If you live with someone, bring a signed letter from them with their address and a bill in their name.
  • Proof of income for everyone in the household (last 30 days): pay stubs; Medicaid/SNAP/TANF letter (same month as your appointment); unemployment or Social Security statements; child support; tax return if self‑employed; or a signed letter from someone who helps you with cash.
  • Immunization record for infants/children (if available).
  • Your Texas WIC card (if you already have one).

Source: Texas WIC “Your First WIC Appointment.” (texaswic.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re missing a document, call the clinic. Texas WIC lists multiple document options and will work with you to verify identity, address, and income. (texaswic.org)

Getting and using your WIC card (Texas eWIC)

  • You receive a Texas WIC card once approved; staff load benefits at appointments.
  • Use the Texas WIC Store Finder to shop. There are 2,000+ authorized stores statewide.
  • Benefits do not roll over—use them before the end of the month.
  • Lost card? Call 800‑942‑3678 right away and lock it in the myWIC app. Replacement can take up to 3 days at the clinic. (texaswic.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If an item won’t scan as WIC, check your remaining benefits and the Shopping Guide. Ask for a manager; if it still won’t scan, pay with other funds or put it back and report the item using the form on the Texas WIC Shopping page so the state can fix it. (texaswic.org)

Farmers’ market vouchers (FMNP) in Texas

On top of regular WIC, many areas hand out WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) vouchers during the season (usually spring–fall). These are per person, per year booklets you redeem at participating farmers’ markets. In Texas, local agencies commonly issue $30 per eligible WIC participant per year (women and children ages 1–5; infants over 4 months may be eligible in some locales). Availability varies by funding and location; not every clinic participates. (fns.usda.gov, hhs.texas.gov)

  • Central Texas/Austin: Sustainable Food Center markets accept WIC and run match programs (some locations double or even triple WIC produce dollars). Check current rules before you go. (sustainablefoodcenter.org)
  • San Antonio area: San Antonio Food Bank markets issue and redeem WIC FMNP vouchers; current local amount noted as $30 per participant per season, expiring Oct 31. (safoodbank.org)
  • East Texas (Tyler/Smith County): NET Health WIC farmers’ markets issue $30 per person; expiring Oct 31. (mynethealth.org)

National FMNP rules set the annual benefit between 10–10–30 per person (states and local partners can add non‑federal funds). Check with your clinic for when and where vouchers are given out in your area. (fns.usda.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your clinic doesn’t offer FMNP, ask about other produce incentives in your city (some markets accept the WIC CVB and might match it). Use your myWIC app and call your clinic for local guidance. (texaswic.org)

Timelines you can expect

  • After you submit the online form, your local clinic should reach out within 3 business days to set your first appointment. If not, call. (texaswic.org)
  • WIC staff are available Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. at 800‑942‑3678; many local clinics have extended hours (check your clinic’s listing in the Office Locator). (texaswic.org, office.texaswic.org)
  • MyTexasWIC account linking may take 1–2 days after your first visit to appear. (my.texaswic.org)
  • Lost card replacement can take up to 3 days at the clinic. (texaswic.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 800‑942‑3678 or your local clinic directly and ask for the earliest available appointment; use the myWIC app to upload documents in advance to speed things up. (texaswic.org, texaswic.org)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Not counting your unborn baby in household size (this can change eligibility). (federalregister.gov)
  • Skipping documents: Don’t show up empty‑handed—bring ID, proof of address, and proof of income for everyone in your household for the last 30 days (or proof of Medicaid/SNAP/TANF). (texaswic.org)
  • Not checking the Texas WIC Shopping Guide for allowed brands/sizes before you go. The myWIC barcode scanner helps a ton. (texaswic.org)
  • Letting benefits expire. WIC doesn’t roll over month to month—shop before the last day of the month. (texaswic.org)
  • Not asking for tailoring if you have dietary needs (lactose‑free, soy, cultural staples). WIC can make allowed substitutions. (fns.usda.gov)
  • Forgetting about breastfeeding support: Free 24/7 hotline 855‑550‑6667, lactation centers in Austin, Dallas, Houston, McAllen, and San Antonio. Pumps may be available if your health plan won’t cover one. (texaswic.org, hhs.texas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you hit a snag at the store or clinic, call Texas WIC at 800‑942‑3678 or use Live Chat. Escalate politely and ask for the WIC supervisor. (texaswic.org)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Using myWIC (saves time)

  • Schedule, reschedule, and see appointments.
  • Upload documents before your visit (guided certification).
  • See monthly benefits and scan items in the store.
  • Lock your card if it’s lost or stolen.

Get it here: myWIC overview and myTexasWIC sign‑up. (texaswic.org, my.texaswic.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If the app won’t link to your card, call your clinic or 800‑942‑3678 and press 3 for myWIC help. (my.texaswic.org)

Real‑world examples

  • You’re working and make close to the limit. For a household of 3, the monthly gross limit is $4,109. If your last 30 days of paychecks average under that, you’re likely income‑eligible (you’ll also need the simple nutrition screening). (govinfo.gov)
  • You’re pregnant with twins. Count yourself + 2 unborn babies. That’s a household of 3 for income—see $4,109/month. (govinfo.gov)
  • You use both breastmilk and formula. WIC can tailor formula up to the maximums listed above so you’re not over‑issued. Discuss your feeding plan with the WIC nutritionist. (wicbreastfeeding.fns.usda.gov)

Where to shop and how to avoid checkout headaches

  • Always check the Texas WIC Shopping Guide for allowed brands/sizes (available in the app).
  • Use the myWIC scanner to confirm items.
  • At checkout, insert your WIC card and enter your PIN. Keep both receipts—the first shows starting balance, the second shows what was deducted. (texaswic.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a WIC item won’t scan and you’re sure it’s allowed, ask the manager; if needed, report the item to Texas WIC using the on‑page form so it can be added to the database. (texaswic.org)

Diverse Communities: practical tips and Texas resources

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers: WIC staff are trained to serve all family structures. Use the myWIC app to manage appointments privately. For broader support, many clinics can refer to inclusive lactation and parenting groups; start with your local WIC office via the Office Locator. (office.texaswic.org)
  • Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a child with disabilities: Ask WIC for reasonable accommodations (appointment times, interpretation, accessible classrooms). WIC can refer to Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) and other supports. (hhs.texas.gov)
  • Veteran single mothers: WIC eligibility is separate from VA benefits. To connect with women‑veteran‑specific help (claims, jobs, peer support), contact the Texas Veterans Commission Women Veterans Program: (832) 728‑3624, 1‑800‑252‑8387, or email tvcwomenvets@tvc.texas.gov. (tvc.texas.gov)
  • Immigrant/refugee single moms: WIC does not ask about immigration status for eligibility and WIC is not counted for public charge. Bring whatever ID/address documents you have; the clinic can advise alternatives. (uscis.gov)
  • Tribal citizens in Texas: If you live near El Paso/Eagle Pass/Polk County and prefer tribal health settings, ask your clinic or local tribal health office about coordination. Example: Ysleta WIC Center (El Paso) 915‑212‑4942. (office.texaswic.org)
  • Rural single moms and those with limited transport: Ask your clinic about appointment options, extended hours, and local farmers’ market voucher days. Use the hotline and myWIC features to reduce in‑person trips. (texaswic.org)
  • Single fathers: Dads and guardians can apply for eligible kids under 5 and use the WIC card. The rules are the same; bring documents for you and the children. (hhs.texas.gov)
  • Language access: Texas WIC has English and Spanish application paths and offers translated shopping guides (Spanish, Vietnamese, Pashto). Ask for an interpreter if you need one. (texaswic.org, texaswic.org)

Local organizations and support (food and family help)

  • 2‑1‑1 Texas (24/7) can connect you to food pantries, rent/utility help, and more. Dial 2‑1‑1 or 877‑541‑7905. (hhs.texas.gov)
  • Texas Lactation Support Centers (staffed by IBCLCs):
    Austin Mom’s Place 512‑972‑6700; Dallas 214‑670‑7222; Houston 713‑500‑2800 (opt 1); McAllen 956‑292‑7711; San Antonio 210‑207‑7138. (texaswic.org)
  • Farmers’ market WIC voucher programs (seasonal): San Antonio Food Bank, NET Health (Tyler), Sustainable Food Center (Austin). Check current amounts/dates. (safoodbank.org, mynethealth.org, sustainablefoodcenter.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t reach a local nonprofit, call 2‑1‑1 and ask for food assistance and WIC support in your ZIP code. (hhs.texas.gov)

Resources by region (quick links + examples)

If you need food now: Plan B options

  • Ask for the soonest WIC appointment (call 800‑942‑3678). Bring any documents you have; WIC can help you figure the rest out. (texaswic.org)
  • Apply for SNAP in parallel (you can get both WIC and SNAP). Some households qualify for “expedited” SNAP within 7 days—sometimes even same day—if resources and income are very low. Maximum SNAP for a family of 4 in TX (FY2025) is $975/month. Apply at YourTexasBenefits or call 2‑1‑1. (hhs.texas.gov, fns.usda.gov)
  • Call 2‑1‑1 to find food pantries near you today. (hhs.texas.gov)

10 Texas‑specific FAQs

  1. Do I have to be a U.S. citizen?
    No. You must live in Texas, but citizenship is not required. WIC is not considered for public charge. (hhs.texas.gov, uscis.gov)
  2. How quickly will I hear back after applying online?
    Texas WIC tells you to expect a call within 3 business days. If you don’t get one, contact your clinic. (texaswic.org)
  3. What are the current income limits?
    For a family of 4, gross monthly income up to $4,957 (effective July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026). Full chart above. (govinfo.gov)
  4. I’m on Medicaid—does that make me eligible for WIC?
    Yes, Medicaid/SNAP/TANF makes you income‑eligible automatically, but you still need the short nutrition screening. (texaswic.org)
  5. Can I use my Texas WIC card in another state?
    No. The Texas WIC card is for Texas stores only. Ask for a “Verification of Certification” if you’re moving. (texaswic.org)
  6. How much produce money (CVB) do I get each month?
    Children 26∗∗,Pregnant/Postpartum∗∗26**, Pregnant/Postpartum **47, Fully/Mostly Breastfeeding $52 (FY2025). (fns.usda.gov)
  7. Will I get a breast pump?
    If your health plan doesn’t provide one and you’re eligible, Texas WIC may be able to issue a pump. Ask your clinic; for urgent questions, call 855‑550‑6667. (hhs.texas.gov, texaswic.org)
  8. My item didn’t scan as WIC—what now?
    Check the Shopping Guide/myWIC scanner, ask the manager, or report the item using the link on the WIC Shopping page so Texas can fix it. (texaswic.org)
  9. Do farmers’ market vouchers exist in my area?
    Many Texas areas issue $30 per eligible person per season (varies by location and funding). Ask your clinic; programs usually wrap up by Oct 31. (safoodbank.org, mynethealth.org)
  10. How long can I stay on WIC?
    Pregnancy through delivery; breastfeeding up to baby’s first birthday; infants to age 1; children to the 5th birthday; non‑breastfeeding postpartum up to 6 months. (fns.usda.gov)

Quick “How‑To” Tables

Table 5. Your first 30 days with Texas WIC

Step What to do Pro tip
Apply today Online application or call 800‑942‑3678 If no callback in 3 business days, call the clinic. (texaswic.org)
Prep docs ID, address, income (30 days), kids’ immunizations You can upload via myWIC. (texaswic.org, texaswic.org)
First appointment Simple nutrition screening; benefits loaded to card Ask about tailoring and myWIC setup. (texaswic.org)
Shop Use Store Finder + myWIC scanner Benefits don’t roll over—use by month‑end. (texaswic.org)

Reality checks, warnings, and time‑savers

  • Appointments can be busy. Ask for earliest availability, including evening/Saturday clinics where offered. Use myWIC to upload documents and avoid repeat trips. (hhs.texas.gov)
  • Brand/size rules matter. Always check the Shopping Guide or scan with myWIC before heading to checkout. (texaswic.org)
  • If you’re between paychecks or lost wages recently, bring what you have for the last 30 days; Texas WIC accepts multiple forms of proof. (texaswic.org)
  • Report lost cards immediately and lock your card in myWIC; replacement can take up to 3 days. (texaswic.org)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (Texas WIC), the Texas Department of State Health Services, and the USDA Food and Nutrition Service, plus established Texas nonprofits. It follows our Editorial Standards for accuracy, inclusivity, and fast updates. We verify links and policy changes regularly. We are not a government agency and cannot guarantee individual outcomes.

Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.

Corrections or new info? Email info@asinglemother.org. We respond within 48–72 hours.

Disclaimer

  • Program amounts and rules can change. Always confirm with your local WIC office or call 800‑942‑3678 before you make decisions. (texaswic.org)
  • Health and privacy: We never collect personal health info. Texas WIC and HHSC follow HIPAA privacy rules and provide a Notice of Privacy Practices; you can contact HHSC Privacy at 877‑378‑9869 or call 2‑1‑1/877‑541‑7905 if you have privacy questions. (hhs.texas.gov)
  • Security: Apply only through official sites linked here (texaswic.org, office.texaswic.org, hhs.texas.gov, fns.usda.gov). Do not share your WIC card number or PIN with anyone you don’t trust; lock your card in the myWIC app if lost. (texaswic.org)

Sources (dated and official)

If a link doesn’t work, please tell us. We actively monitor and update this guide to keep it useful and accurate.

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