WIC Formula Guide 2026: Approved Brands, How to Apply & Get Free Formula
Complete guide to the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) formula benefits.
Quick Summary
What is WIC? A federal nutrition program providing free formula, food, and support to low-income families.
Who qualifies? Pregnant women, new mothers, and children under 5 at or below 185% of federal poverty level.
WIC-approved formula brands: Similac (most states), Enfamil, Gerber Good Start, store brands vary by state.
What is WIC?
WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) is a federally-funded nutrition program that provides:
- Free baby formula for infants up to 12 months
- Nutritious foods for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers
- Healthy foods for children ages 1-5
- Nutrition education and breastfeeding support
- Referrals to healthcare and social services
In 2026, WIC serves approximately 6.2 million participants monthly, including 1.5 million infants receiving formula benefits.
WIC Income Requirements 2026
To qualify for WIC, your household income must be at or below 185% of the Federal Poverty Level:
| Household Size | Annual Income Limit | Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $27,861 | $2,322 |
| 2 | $37,814 | $3,151 |
| 3 | $47,767 | $3,981 |
| 4 | $57,720 | $4,810 |
| 5 | $67,673 | $5,639 |
| 6 | $77,626 | $6,469 |
Automatic eligibility: If you receive Medicaid, SNAP (food stamps), or TANF, you automatically meet income requirements.
WIC-Approved Formula Brands by State
Each state contracts with a specific formula manufacturer. Here's the 2026 breakdown:
States Using Similac (Abbott)
California, Texas, Florida, New York, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Georgia, North Carolina, Michigan, and 25+ other states.
- Similac Advance
- Similac Pro-Advance
- Similac Sensitive
- Similac Soy Isomil
- Similac Alimentum (with prescription)
States Using Enfamil (Mead Johnson)
Arizona, Colorado, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, and several other states.
- Enfamil NeuroPro
- Enfamil Gentlease
- Enfamil ProSobee (soy)
- Nutramigen (with prescription)
States Using Gerber Good Start
Select states including parts of the Midwest.
- Gerber Good Start GentlePro
- Gerber Good Start SoothePro
- Gerber Good Start Soy
How Much Formula Does WIC Provide?
WIC provides formula based on your baby's age and feeding status:
| Baby's Age | Fully Formula-Fed | Partially Breastfed |
|---|---|---|
| 0-3 months | 9 cans (12.4oz) powder | 4 cans |
| 4-5 months | 10 cans powder | 5 cans |
| 6-11 months | 7 cans powder | 4 cans |
Value: At $30-40 per can, WIC formula benefits are worth $2,000-3,500 in the first year.
How to Apply for WIC
- Find your local WIC office: Visit USDA WIC website or call 1-800-WIC-WINS
- Schedule an appointment: Many states now offer phone or video appointments
- Gather documents:
- Proof of identity (ID, birth certificate)
- Proof of address (utility bill, lease)
- Proof of income (pay stubs, tax return, benefit letter)
- Proof of pregnancy or child's age
- Complete nutrition assessment
- Receive WIC benefits via EBT card
WIC Formula FAQs
Can I get specialty formula through WIC?
Yes! With a doctor's prescription, WIC covers hypoallergenic formulas like Similac Alimentum, Nutramigen, and amino acid formulas like EleCare for babies with allergies or medical conditions.
Can I switch formula brands on WIC?
You must use the contract brand for your state. However, you can switch between types (standard, sensitive, soy) within that brand based on your baby's needs.
What if WIC formula doesn't agree with my baby?
Contact your WIC office. They can authorize different formula types or, with a doctor's note, approve specialty formulas.
Can I use WIC with Kendamil or European formulas?
No. WIC only covers FDA-approved, domestically available formulas. Premium brands like Kendamil, HiPP, and Holle are not WIC-eligible.
WIC vs. Buying Formula: Cost Comparison
| Formula Type | WIC Cost | Out-of-Pocket Cost (Year 1) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard (Similac/Enfamil) | $0 | $1,800-2,200 |
| Sensitive/Gentle | $0 | $2,000-2,400 |
| Hypoallergenic | $0 (with Rx) | $3,500-5,000 |
Compare WIC-Approved Formulas
Not sure which WIC formula is best for your baby? Compare ingredients and features.
Similac vs Enfamil Comparison