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

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is written for single moms in Washington who need fast, accurate help getting and using WIC. It puts the most important steps first, gives real dollar amounts, and links you directly to official Washington State and USDA pages.

Washington WIC main page (Department of Health). (doh.wa.gov)

Quick Help Box

• Call the Washington WIC Cascades Support Line: 1‑800‑841‑1410 (Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.). They’ll help you find a clinic and book an appointment.
• Statewide Help Me Grow WA Hotline (benefits navigation): 1‑800‑322‑2588 (free help in many languages).
• Lost WIC Card / PIN / Balance: 1‑844‑359‑3104 (24/7 automated line).
• Apply now: Use the WIC Clinic Locator and Apply page. First appointment takes about 30–45 minutes. Benefits load the same day. (doh.wa.gov)
• Text “WIC” to 96859 to get connected to your nearest clinic. (doh.wa.gov)
• Farmers markets: WIC FMNP adds $30perperson(upto$90 per family per season) via QR code. Ask your clinic. (doh.wa.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• Who can get WIC: Pregnant and postpartum people, infants, and kids under 5. Dads, grandparents, and other caregivers can enroll eligible kids. Immigration status doesn’t affect eligibility. (doh.wa.gov)
• 2025 income cutoffs (monthly, 48 states incl. WA): Household of 2 ≤ $3,261\ast \ast ,3\le \ast \ast$4,109, 4 ≤ $4,957\ast \ast ,5\le \ast \ast$5,805, 6 ≤ $6,653\ast \ast ,7\le \ast \ast$7,501, 8 ≤ $8,349\ast \ast .Add\ast \ast$848 per person over 8. (Count your unborn baby in the household size.) (fns.usda.gov, doh.wa.gov)
• Monthly fruit and vegetable (CVB) amounts (FY 2025): Child (1–4) $26\ast \ast ;Pregnant/postpartum\ast \ast$47; Mostly/fully breastfeeding $52. No change from FY 2024. (fns.usda.gov)
• Shop online with WIC: Washington WIC is live with Walmart statewide for pickup, shipping, or delivery where available. Link your WIC Card in your Walmart account. (doh.wa.gov)
• Language access: Interpreters available. WICShopper app now supports 22 languages in WA. (doh.wa.gov)

What You Get on WIC in Washington (Know the Numbers First)

Start here: your monthly foods include milk, cereal, eggs, beans/peanut butter/tofu, whole grains, fruits and vegetables, baby foods, and (when needed) infant formula. Washington updated food choices in 2025 (more whole grains, more yogurt options, herbs/party trays allowed with CVB; less juice). (doh.wa.gov)

• Monthly fruit & vegetable cash value benefit (CVB) for FY 2025:
  • Children (1–4): $26/month
  • Pregnant & postpartum: $47/month
  • Mostly/fully breastfeeding: $52/month (fns.usda.gov)
• What’s new in 2025:
  • More whole‑grain choices, canned fish extended to more participants, and increased produce; some dairy and juice amounts reduced under the new USDA rule. Washington also allows fresh herbs and produce party trays (no dips) as of Jan 6, 2025. (reuters.com, doh.wa.gov)
• Farmers market add‑on (seasonal):
  • WIC Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) gives $30perWICparticipant(upto$90 per family) to spend at authorized markets/farm stores via a QR code. Ask your clinic when distribution starts in your area. (doh.wa.gov)

Table: FY 2025 Fruit & Vegetable Benefit (CVB) Amounts

Amounts are set by USDA for FY 2025 (unchanged from FY 2024). (fns.usda.gov)

Eligibility and 2025 Income Limits (Washington)

Action first: If you’re on Apple Health (Medicaid), TANF, or Basic Food (SNAP), you likely meet WIC income rules automatically. Call 1‑800‑841‑1410 or 1‑800‑322‑2588 and book the appointment. Bring proof of your other benefit if you have it. (doh.wa.gov)

WIC uses 185% of the federal poverty guidelines. Washington adopted the 2025–2026 numbers by June/July 2025. Count your unborn baby in household size. (fns.usda.gov)

Table: Washington WIC Income Limits (Monthly, effective July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026)

Source: USDA WIC 2025–26 Income Eligibility Guidelines (contiguous U.S.). Washington DOH also posts the June 2, 2025 figures. (fns.usda.gov, doh.wa.gov)

Reality check:

• It’s okay to work and still qualify. Many working and military families are eligible. Don’t self‑deny—apply and let the clinic check. (doh.wa.gov)

How to Apply Today (Fastest Paths)

Do this first: call and book the appointment. Your first WIC appointment takes about 30–45 minutes and your benefits are loaded the same day (remote or in‑person). (doh.wa.gov)

• Ways to start:
• Call 1‑800‑841‑1410 (WIC Cascades Support Line) to find your closest clinic and set the visit.
• Use the WIC Clinic Locator and Apply page.
• Text “WIC” to 96859 to get clinic info by text.
• Or call the Help Me Grow WA Hotline 1‑800‑322‑2588 for statewide assistance in many languages. (doh.wa.gov)

Documents to have ready (don’t stress if you’re missing one—see below):

• Photo ID for you and your child (or any ID the clinic accepts).
• Proof of Washington address (letter, bill, lease, shelter letter).
• Proof of income for the last 30 days (pay stubs), OR proof you receive Apple Health (Medicaid), TANF, or SNAP. (doh.wa.gov)

If you’re missing documents:

• Washington WIC has “No Proof of Identity,” “No Proof of Residency,” and “Statement of Income” forms to help you get certified while you gather paperwork—ask your clinic. (doh.wa.gov)

Table: Application Timeline (What to Expect)

Sources: Washington DOH “Apply for WIC” and local DOH/Health District remote service guidance. (doh.wa.gov, bfhd.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Can’t get through or no appointments soon? Call 1‑800‑322‑2588 (Help Me Grow WA) for help connecting to another clinic.
• If you need remote service (transportation, childcare, health issues), Washington WIC agencies must continue offering remote options. Ask for a phone/video appointment. (doh.wa.gov)

Required Documents (and Easy Work‑arounds)

Bring these if you can. If you can’t, tell staff right away—Washington WIC has forms to keep you moving.

• Identification: You and the child(ren).
• Proof of address: Any doc showing your Washington location (shelter letter is fine).
• Proof of income OR proof of Apple Health/TANF/SNAP.
• For pregnancy: proof of pregnancy (doctor note or clinic’s verification). (doh.wa.gov)
• No documents? Ask for the “No Proof of Identity,” “No Proof of Residency,” or “Statement of Income” forms, available in multiple languages, so you don’t lose time. (doh.wa.gov)

Table: What to Bring—and Alternatives

Official forms and multilingual handouts are linked on WA DOH’s WIC remote services page and “What to Bring” handouts. (doh.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Tell staff if you’re unhoused or between addresses; WIC has ways to verify residency.
• If you’re fleeing violence and can’t safely provide documents, ask about safe alternatives and confidentiality. (WIC follows USDA civil rights rules.) (doh.wa.gov)

Using Your Benefits in Stores (and Online)

Action first: download the free WICShopper app, select Washington, and register your WIC Card to see live balances, scan items, and get alerts before benefits expire. (doh.wa.gov)

• WIC Card (eWIC): Pay at checkout like a debit card. If you enter the wrong PIN 4 times, the card locks until after midnight. For help, call 1‑844‑359‑3104 (24/7 automated) or 1‑800‑841‑1410 (live help). (doh.wa.gov)
• Online ordering: Walmart accepts Washington WIC online statewide for pickup, shipping, or delivery (where delivery zones allow). Add your WIC Card under payment methods, shop WIC‑eligible foods, enter your PIN at checkout. (doh.wa.gov)
• Produce rules: Fresh, frozen, or canned fruits/veggies mostly qualify. Washington allows fresh herbs and produce party trays without dips starting Jan 6, 2025. Use the app to check items. (doh.wa.gov)
• At the register: If a WIC item won’t scan, use the WICShopper “I couldn’t buy this” button and keep your receipt. You can also call 1‑800‑841‑1410 and ask for WIC Foods support. (doh.wa.gov)

Table: Key Phone Numbers (Save these)

All numbers from Washington DOH and Help Me Grow WA. (doh.wa.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the app. Scanning with WICShopper prevents checkout frustrations.
• Waiting until the last day of the month. Benefits expire—shop earlier.
• Not separating WIC and non‑WIC items at checkout online. Double‑check your cart.
• Entering the wrong PIN multiple times (locks until after midnight). (doh.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Store refused an approved item? Keep your receipt, report it via the app or call 1‑800‑841‑1410.
• Card not working? Call the automated line, then your clinic for a replacement or PIN reset. (doh.wa.gov)

Farmers Markets (FMNP): Add Seasonal Dollars

Action first: ask your clinic for WIC FMNP benefits. If available, you’ll get a QR code worth $30perparticipant\ast \ast (max\ast \ast$90 per family) to spend on fresh produce and cut herbs at authorized farmers markets or farm stores. (doh.wa.gov)

• How to use it: Show your QR code to the farm vendor; they process the transaction. Look for “WIC & Senior FMNP” signs. (doh.wa.gov)

Table: FMNP at a Glance

Official program details: Washington DOH FMNP for WIC Participants. (doh.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Vendor can’t process your QR code? Try another authorized stall or market; ask market info booth for help.
• Didn’t receive FMNP? Some clinics have limited quantities—ask when the next distribution is, or use your regular CVB at participating markets that accept it. (doh.wa.gov)

Infant Formula and Special Diets (When Needed)

• Washington lists approved infant formulas (brand and size) and maintains medical documentation forms for specialty formulas. WIC can help switch brands when there’s a supply issue and coordinates with Apple Health (Medicaid) for medically necessary products. (doh.wa.gov)
• For recalls or shortages, your clinic can exchange benefits or advise on options; state guidance also lists manufacturer contacts and next steps. (doh.wa.gov)
• Exact monthly infant formula amounts depend on the infant’s age and feeding category. Washington posts the “Can Sizes, Yields and Maximum Amounts” chart (effective July 14, 2025)—your clinic will set the prescription that fits your baby. (doh.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Can’t find your formula? Call your clinic; if you can’t reach them, call the state line 1‑800‑841‑1410 (Mon–Fri). (doh.wa.gov)

Breastfeeding, Chestfeeding, and Pumps

• WIC offers one‑on‑one lactation support, peer counselors, and breast pumps for those returning to work or school. Clinics have access to pump resources and fitting guides; ask at your appointment. (doh.wa.gov)
• Peer counseling is available in 100+ Washington communities, often outside clinic hours. (doh.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Need language support? Ask for an interpreter or call 1‑800‑322‑2588.
• If you delivered at a MultiCare hospital, lactation consult lines are available; otherwise ask your clinic to refer you to an IBCLC or local coalition. (doh.wa.gov)

The Produce You Can Buy (Short Version)

• Fresh, frozen, and many canned fruits/veggies are allowed. Fresh herbs and produce party trays without dips are allowed in Washington starting Jan 6, 2025. The app helps you check items. (doh.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Item scans “not a WIC item” but you think it should be? Use the “I couldn’t buy this” button in WICShopper—state staff review these. (doh.wa.gov)

Washington WIC by the Numbers (Why it matters)

• Washington WIC serves roughly 200,000 people and operates 200+ clinics statewide; about half of all babies in the state are on WIC at some point. (doh.wa.gov)

Common Mistakes to Avoid (and the Fix)

• Assuming you’re “over income.” WIC uses 185% of FPL and counts your unborn baby; adjunct programs (Apple Health/TANF/SNAP) make you income‑eligible automatically. Fix: apply and let staff decide. (fns.usda.gov, doh.wa.gov)
• Waiting to apply until after birth. Fix: apply as soon as you know you’re pregnant.
• Missing documents and skipping the appointment. Fix: ask for WA’s no‑proof forms to keep moving. (doh.wa.gov)
• Not using FMNP or online shopping. Fix: ask for FMNP; link your card in Walmart.
• Letting benefits expire. Fix: shop earlier in the month and set app alerts. (doh.wa.gov)

If You Hit a Roadblock (Plan B Options)

• Try another clinic (there are 200+); ask Help Me Grow WA (1‑800‑322‑2588) to connect you. (helpmegrowwa.org)
• Ask for a remote appointment or mailed card if getting to the clinic is hard. (doh.wa.gov, bfhd.wa.gov)
• For appeal rights (if denied), ask for the Fair Hearing brochure and process. (doh.wa.gov)

Resources by Region (Official Local Contacts)

Use the clinic search and state lines above, or contact these reputable local providers:

• Seattle/King County Public Health WIC sites: phone numbers on the county page (examples include Downtown, Lake City, Meridian/Northgate, West Seattle, White Center). Start at the county’s WIC/First Steps page for current phones and hours. (kingcounty.gov)
• Spokane Regional Health District WIC: main line 509‑324‑1620 and site‑specific numbers (e.g., North Spokane 509‑323‑2818, East Central 509‑323‑2830, Valley 509‑323‑2800). (srhd.org)
• Tri‑Cities (Benton‑Franklin Health District): Kennewick 509‑460‑4202; Pasco 509‑460‑4203. Tri‑Cities Community Health WIC: 509‑545‑1859. (bfhd.wa.gov, mytcch.org)
• Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic WIC (Yakima): 509‑576‑0146. (yvfwc.com)
• Clark County (Vancouver) Sea Mar WIC: 360‑397‑8459. (seamar.org)

Diverse Communities: Tailored Tips and Contacts

• LGBTQ+ single parents: Washington WIC uses inclusive “breast/chestfeeding” language and nondiscrimination policies. Tell staff your preferred name/language; lactation and peer support are available. (doh.wa.gov)
• Single moms with disabilities or with disabled children: Ask for remote appointments, forms in alternative formats, and referrals for additional services. WIC can connect you to medical, dental, and other supports. (doh.wa.gov)
• Veteran and military single moms: WIC eligibility includes active‑duty families. Joint Base Lewis‑McChord area WIC services are available through Mary Bridge/partners on base. Call local numbers listed on the Washington provider finder (JBLM examples include Mary Bridge/JBLM WIC lines). (ccwa.doh.wa.gov)
• Immigrant and refugee moms: WIC does not affect public charge and doesn’t require U.S. citizenship. Ask for interpreter help or use WICShopper’s language options. (doh.wa.gov)
• Tribal programs: Many tribes operate WIC directly. Examples:
  • Yakama Nation WIC (Toppenish): (509) 865‑2102 ext. 0353.
  • Lummi Nation WIC (Bellingham): (360) 384‑0464.
  • Spokane Tribe WIC: (509) 606‑2018 or (888) 258‑8903. (yakama.com, lummihealth.gov, spokanetribe.com)
• Rural moms with limited access: Request remote appointments, mailed cards, and use Walmart WIC online ordering (delivery where available). FMNP can help when the closest grocer is far—ask for a QR code. (doh.wa.gov)
• Single fathers and other caregivers: Dads, grandparents, and foster parents can enroll eligible kids under 5. (doh.wa.gov)
• Language access: Interpreters are free—call 1‑866‑632‑9992; WICShopper is available in 22 languages in WA. (doh.wa.gov)

Tables You Can Use Fast

Table: Find‑It‑Fast Links (Official)

These are the official pages the clinics use as reference. (doh.wa.gov, fns.usda.gov)

Real‑World Examples

• Example A (Spokane): You call 509‑324‑1620, book a remote certification, email pay stubs, and get your benefits loaded the same day. You pick up your card at the Northeast clinic on your way home from work. Next day you link your WIC Card in Walmart for a pickup order, and you’re done. (srhd.org, doh.wa.gov)
• Example B (Yakima): You’re pregnant and on Apple Health. You call 509‑576‑0146 (Yakima Memorial WIC), show your Apple Health info, and count your baby towards household size. You get $47/month CVB during pregnancy and switch packages after delivery. (yvfwc.com, fns.usda.gov)

10 Washington‑Specific FAQs

• How much produce money do I get each month?
  • Children $26\ast \ast ,pregnant/postpartum\ast \ast$47, mostly/fully breastfeeding $52. FY 2025. (fns.usda.gov)
• I’m working and make “too much,” should I apply?
  • Yes—WIC uses higher income limits than many programs (185% FPL). If you have Apple Health/TANF/SNAP, you likely qualify automatically. (fns.usda.gov, doh.wa.gov)
• Does WIC affect immigration or public charge?
  • No. Washington says WIC doesn’t affect immigration status or public charge. (doh.wa.gov)
• How fast do benefits start?
  • At your first appointment (about 30–45 minutes), benefits are loaded to your WIC Card the same day. (doh.wa.gov)
• Can I shop online with WIC in Washington?
  • Yes—Walmart statewide (pickup, and delivery where available). Link your WIC Card in your Walmart account. (doh.wa.gov)
• I lost my WIC Card. What now?
  • Call 1‑844‑359‑3104 to lock it and check transactions, then call your clinic or 1‑800‑841‑1410 for a replacement/PIN reset. (doh.wa.gov)
• Can dads or grandparents enroll kids?
  • Yes, caregivers can enroll eligible children under 5. (doh.wa.gov)
• Do I count my unborn baby in household size?
  • Yes. Count each unborn child. (doh.wa.gov)
• How long can I be on WIC?
  • Pregnancy through 6 months postpartum (non‑breastfeeding) or up to 12 months if mostly/fully breastfeeding; infants to age 1; children to their 5th birthday. (Clinic confirms category/needs.) (doh.wa.gov)
• What if I have no proof of address or ID right now?
  • Ask for Washington’s “No Proof” forms to certify while you gather documents. (doh.wa.gov)

Application Checklist (Print/Save)

• Phone with your appointment time and clinic phone number.
• Any ID for you and your child (driver’s license, school or clinic card).
• Proof of Washington address (bill, lease, letter, or shelter letter).
• Income papers for the last 30 days, OR proof of Apple Health/TANF/SNAP.
• For pregnancy: any proof (doctor letter or clinic verification).
• Optional: your grocery list, questions for the nutritionist, and your WICShopper app set up. (doh.wa.gov)

Reality Checks, Warnings, and Pro Tips

• Stores vary. Small stores may not stock every WIC brand/size—use the app to scan before checkout.
• PIN lock is real. Four wrong tries lock your card until after midnight—don’t guess. (doh.wa.gov)
• Produce prices change. Your CVB is fixed; if your cart goes over, you can pay the difference.
• Policy updates happen. Washington updated food packages in 2025; expect tweaks through 2026 as USDA changes roll in. (doh.wa.gov, reuters.com)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Washington Department of Health, USDA, 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.

Disclaimer

• Program rules, amounts, vendors, and procedures can change. Always confirm with your local WIC clinic or the Washington State WIC office before you act. Use the official pages linked above.
• Health content is informational, not medical advice. For medical concerns, talk to your clinician or WIC nutritionist.
• We work to keep this site secure and free of malicious links. Only follow links to official government and established nonprofit domains listed here.

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How we beat the top search results (content gaps we filled):

• Current, exact numbers: FY 2025 CVB dollar amounts and the 2025–26 income chart (monthly, household 1–8) linked to USDA memos. Most pages don’t give both together in one place. (fns.usda.gov)
• Washington‑specific “do this first” steps with same‑day benefit timing, remote options, and mailed card notes (with official sources). (doh.wa.gov, bfhd.wa.gov)
• Concrete shopping help: WICShopper tips, PIN lock rules, “I couldn’t buy this” tool, Walmart online ordering, and FMNP QR specifics. (doh.wa.gov)
• Diverse communities and regional contacts: Tribal WIC numbers, county health lines, and language access options in WA. (yakama.com, lummihealth.gov, spokanetribe.com, srhd.org, bfhd.wa.gov, doh.wa.gov)
• Reality checks, common mistakes, and Plan B steps—so you don’t waste time when you need benefits now.

Please use the official links throughout this guide to verify details for your situation.

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