Instacart does not accept WIC benefits as payment

Instacart, the grocery delivery service, does not take WIC cards or EBT cards loaded with WIC funds. You cannot use your WIC benefits to pay for groceries through Instacart's app or website, even if you shop at a store that normally accepts WIC.

This is a federal rule, not an Instacart choice. The USDA, which runs the WIC program, does not permit WIC benefits to be used for delivery services of any kind. WIC can only be used for in-person purchases at authorized retail locations where you hand over your card or voucher to a cashier.

If you want to use WIC to buy groceries, you must shop in person at a store that is authorized to accept WIC in your state.

Key Takeaways

  • WIC benefits cannot be used on Instacart, Amazon Fresh, or any other grocery delivery service under federal rules.
  • You must shop in person at a physical store location to use your WIC card or vouchers.
  • Some states authorize certain large retailers like Walmart and Target to accept WIC, but only for in-person purchases.
  • If you need groceries delivered, you would need to pay out of pocket or use a different payment method that is not WIC.

Why delivery services cannot accept WIC

The USDA restricts WIC to in-person transactions because the program is designed to may support that a parent or caregiver is physically present when food is purchased. This requirement exists so that WIC funds go toward the specific foods the program covers — infant formula, milk, cheese, eggs, beans, peanut butter, cereal, and produce — and not toward other items.

When you shop in person, a cashier checks your cart and removes any items that are not WIC-approved before you pay. A delivery service cannot do this check because the shopper and the customer are not in the same place. The USDA has not created an exception for delivery, so no delivery platform can legally accept WIC payments.

What stores do accept WIC in person

Your state's WIC program maintains a list of authorized retailers where you can use your WIC card or paper vouchers. Large chains like Walmart, Target, and Kroger accept WIC in most states, but authorization varies by location and state. Some smaller grocery stores and farmers markets also accept WIC.

To find authorized stores near you, contact your state WIC program office or check your state's WIC website. You can also ask at the customer service desk of any grocery store whether they accept WIC. The store will tell you which items in their inventory are WIC-approved.

Using WIC and other payment methods together

You can combine WIC with other payment methods in a single transaction at an authorized store. For example, if your WIC covers $50 of groceries and your total is $75, you can use your WIC card for the approved items and pay the remaining $25 with a debit card, credit card, or cash.

The cashier will ring up your WIC items separately from non-WIC items so that the WIC card is only charged for approved foods. This is standard practice at stores that accept WIC, and you do not need to ask — the cashier will handle the split automatically.

Alternatives if you cannot shop in person

If you are unable to go to a store yourself, you may be able to send someone else to shop on your behalf using your WIC card. Some states allow a household member or authorized representative to make purchases with your WIC card, though rules vary. Contact your state WIC program to ask whether this is permitted in your state and what documentation you need to provide.

Another option is to check whether your state offers online ordering with in-store pickup at authorized retailers. A few states have piloted programs that let you order WIC items online and pick them up at the store, though this is not yet available everywhere. Your state WIC office can tell you whether this service exists where you live.

Other delivery services and WIC

No grocery delivery service accepts WIC — not Amazon Fresh, not Walmart+, not local delivery apps. The federal restriction applies to all of them. If a delivery service advertises that it accepts WIC, that is not accurate, and you should contact your state WIC program to report it.

Some states are working with the USDA to test new ways WIC could work with online shopping, but as of now, no delivery option is available. Check your state WIC program's website for updates if this is something you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order groceries online and pick them up at the store using WIC?

A small number of states have piloted online ordering with in-store pickup for WIC, but it is not available everywhere. Contact your state WIC program to ask whether this service is offered in your area. If it is available, the store will walk you through how to place an order and which items are WIC-approved.

What if I need groceries but cannot leave my home?

Ask your state WIC program whether an authorized household member can shop using your WIC card on your behalf. Rules differ by state. If that is not permitted, you may need to arrange for someone to accompany you to the store, or ask a trusted family member or friend to help you shop.

Can I use WIC on Amazon or Walmart delivery?

No. Amazon Fresh, Walmart+, and all other delivery services are prohibited from accepting WIC under federal rules. You must purchase WIC items in person at an authorized retail location.

Will WIC ever work with delivery services?

The USDA has not announced plans to change this rule. Some states are testing new online options with the USDA, but delivery to your home is not currently permitted. Your state WIC program can tell you about any new options as they become available.