MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WDNews) — Alabama health officials are encouraging families to check their eligibility for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) after income guidelines increased under the 2026 federal poverty guidelines.
The Alabama Department of Public Health said pregnant women, new mothers, breastfeeding women, and parents or guardians of children up to age 5 may qualify for benefits. Because the income limits have increased, additional families may now be eligible for assistance.
WIC participants can receive monthly food benefits for each qualifying family member. The program provides cash value benefits for fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables, including $26 per month for each child, $48 per month for pregnant and postpartum women, and $52 per month for breastfeeding women.
Additional approved foods include whole-grain breads and cereals, milk, cheese, yogurt, eggs, peanut butter, beans, canned fish and infant foods.
Beyond food assistance, WIC also offers nutrition education, breastfeeding support and healthcare referrals. Benefits are provided electronically through Alabama’s WIC program.
To qualify, applicants must meet income requirements and have a nutritional need. Families receiving Medicaid, SNAP benefits or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) automatically meet WIC income qualifications.
Under the updated guidelines, annual household income limits include:
Family of 2: $40,034
Family of 3: $50,542
Family of 4: $61,050
Family of 5: $71,558
Family of 6: $82,066
Each unborn child counts toward family size when determining eligibility.
“WIC is here to help women, infants, and children in Alabama improve their overall health by providing nutritious foods, nutrition education, and breastfeeding support,” said Pam Galloway, Alabama WIC director.
Officials noted that many families who do not qualify for other assistance programs may still qualify for WIC because of its higher income limits.
For more information, families can visit the Alabama WIC website or call the statewide toll-free hotline at 1-888-942-4673 (1-888-WIC-HOPE). County health departments across Alabama also provide information and application assistance.
