Does Target Take WIC? Everything You Need To Know About Shopping At Target With WIC Benefits

Vergie Bashirian V 14 May 2025

Shopping on a budget can be tough, especially when you're trying to provide nutritious food for your family. If you're a WIC recipient, you might be wondering, "Does Target take WIC?" The answer is yes, but there's more to it than just swiping your card. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the ins and outs of using WIC benefits at Target, so you can make the most of your shopping experience.

Imagine walking into a massive store filled with aisles of groceries, snacks, and household essentials. You’ve got your WIC card in hand, but are you sure it’ll work at Target? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a new WIC recipient or just curious about your options, this guide will help you navigate the process like a pro.

From understanding how WIC works at Target to knowing which items are eligible, we’ll break it all down step by step. Let’s make shopping easier, smarter, and more stress-free for you and your family. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know!

What is WIC and How Does It Work?

Before we dive into whether Target accepts WIC, let’s take a quick look at what WIC actually is. WIC stands for Women, Infants, and Children, and it’s a federal assistance program designed to provide nutritional support to low-income pregnant women, new moms, infants, and young children. It’s not just about handing out money—it’s about promoting healthy eating habits and ensuring families have access to essential foods.

Key Benefits of WIC

Here’s a quick rundown of what WIC offers:

Nutritious Foods: WIC provides vouchers or EBT cards that can be used to buy specific types of food, such as milk, eggs, cereal, fruits, vegetables, and baby formula.
Health Screenings: Participants receive regular health assessments to monitor their nutritional needs.
Education: WIC offers nutrition counseling and breastfeeding support to help families make informed choices.
Access to Services: WIC connects recipients to other resources, like healthcare providers and social services.

Now that you know what WIC is all about, let’s get back to the big question: Does Target accept WIC? Spoiler alert—it does! But let’s explore how it works.

Does Target Take WIC?

The short answer is yes, Target does take WIC. However, there are a few things you need to know before heading to the store. First, not all Target locations may accept WIC, so it’s always a good idea to check ahead of time. Second, WIC benefits can only be used to purchase eligible items, which we’ll cover in detail later.

Target has made strides in becoming more accessible to WIC recipients by accepting EBT cards and WIC vouchers. This means you can shop for groceries and other eligible products without worrying about how you’ll pay for them. Plus, Target often runs promotions and discounts that can help stretch your budget even further.

Why Choose Target for WIC Shopping?

Target is more than just a department store—it’s a one-stop shop for groceries, household items, and even clothing. Here’s why Target is a great option for WIC recipients:

Convenience: You can do all your shopping in one place, saving time and energy.
Wide Selection: Target offers a variety of WIC-eligible products, from organic produce to name-brand cereals.
Price Match Guarantee: If you find a lower price elsewhere, Target will match it, ensuring you get the best deal possible.
RedCard Benefits: With a Target RedCard, you can save an additional 5% on purchases, including those made with WIC benefits.

Whether you’re stocking up on groceries or picking up a few extra items for the week, Target makes it easy to shop with WIC.

Which Items Are Eligible Under WIC at Target?

When shopping with WIC at Target, it’s important to know which items are eligible for purchase. WIC has strict guidelines on what can and cannot be bought with your benefits. Here’s a list of eligible items you can find at Target:

Fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen, or canned)
Milk
Eggs
Cereal
Whole-grain bread and pasta
Infant formula and baby food
Beans, lentils, and peanut butter
Tofu and soy milk (in some states)

It’s worth noting that not all brands or varieties of these items may be eligible. For example, organic milk might not be covered in some states, so it’s important to double-check the WIC-approved list for your area.

Tips for Shopping with WIC at Target

Shopping with WIC at Target can be a breeze if you follow these tips:

Check the Labels: Look for WIC-approved labels on products to ensure they’re eligible for purchase.
Plan Your Trip: Make a list of the items you need and stick to it to avoid overspending.
Use the Self-Checkout: Many Target stores have self-checkout lanes that accept WIC cards, making the process faster and more convenient.
Combine Discounts: Use coupons or Target’s price match policy to save even more on your eligible purchases.

By following these tips, you can make the most of your WIC benefits and enjoy a stress-free shopping experience at Target.

How to Use Your WIC Card at Target

Using your WIC card at Target is simple and straightforward. Here’s how it works:

Select Eligible Items: Choose only the products that are approved under the WIC program.
Separate Purchases: At checkout, separate your WIC-eligible items from other purchases to avoid confusion.
Swipe Your Card: Swipe your WIC card or present your EBT card to the cashier.
Pay for Non-WIC Items: If you’re buying non-WIC items, you’ll need to pay for them separately using cash, credit, or your Target RedCard.

Remember, WIC benefits can only be used for approved items, so it’s important to plan your shopping trip accordingly. If you’re unsure about a particular product, don’t hesitate to ask a store associate for help.

Can You Use WIC Online at Target?

Target does offer online shopping options, but unfortunately, WIC benefits cannot be used for online purchases at this time. However, you can still shop in-store and take advantage of Target’s convenient services, like Drive Up and Order Pickup, to save time and effort.

Common Questions About WIC at Target

Here are some frequently asked questions about using WIC at Target:

Can I Use WIC and SNAP Together?

Yes, you can use both WIC and SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits at Target. Simply separate your purchases into WIC-eligible and SNAP-eligible items at checkout, and pay with the appropriate card for each.

Are All Target Locations WIC-Friendly?

Most Target locations accept WIC, but it’s always a good idea to confirm before visiting. You can check by calling the store or visiting their website.

Can I Use WIC for Non-Food Items?

No, WIC benefits can only be used to purchase approved food items. Non-food items, such as toiletries or clothing, are not eligible for purchase with WIC.

Benefits of Shopping at Target with WIC

Shopping at Target with WIC offers several advantages:

Wide Range of Products: Target carries a variety of WIC-eligible items, making it easy to find what you need.
Competitive Pricing: Target often matches or beats competitors’ prices, ensuring you get the best value for your money.
Convenient Services: With options like Drive Up and Order Pickup, Target makes shopping easier and more efficient.
Customer Support: Target’s friendly staff is always ready to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have.

By choosing Target for your WIC shopping, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience while providing your family with the nutrition they need.

Challenges of Using WIC at Target

While Target is a great option for WIC recipients, there are a few challenges to keep in mind:

Limited Eligible Items: Not all products at Target are WIC-approved, so you may need to do some extra research to find eligible options.
No Online Shopping: WIC benefits cannot be used for online purchases, so you’ll need to shop in-store.
Separate Transactions: Paying for WIC and non-WIC items separately can add a bit of complexity to your checkout process.

Despite these challenges, the benefits of shopping at Target with WIC far outweigh the drawbacks. With a little preparation and planning, you can navigate the system with ease.

Conclusion: Does Target Take WIC? Yes, It Does!

Shopping with WIC at Target is a convenient and affordable way to provide your family with nutritious food. From a wide selection of eligible items to competitive pricing and excellent customer service, Target offers everything you need to make the most of your WIC benefits.

So, the next time you’re wondering, "Does Target take WIC?" you’ll know the answer is a resounding yes. Don’t forget to plan your shopping trip, check the labels, and take advantage of Target’s discounts and services to stretch your budget even further.

Call to Action: If you found this article helpful, feel free to leave a comment or share it with your friends and family. And if you have any questions about shopping with WIC at Target, let us know—we’re here to help!