Free Devices with WIC Benefits

If you participate in WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children), you may qualify for free or discounted devices and internet service through government assistance programs.

What is WIC?

WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children) is a federal nutrition program administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that provides nutrition education, healthy food, and support to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and children up to age 5.

WIC eligibility is based on income, nutritional risk, and residency. If you participate in WIC, your household automatically meets income requirements for many device assistance programs, particularly the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP).

How WIC Qualifies You for Free Devices

WIC participation is accepted as proof of eligibility for device assistance programs, particularly the Affordable Connectivity Program:

Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

WIC participants qualify for ACP, which offers:

  • Up to $30/month discount on internet service ($75/month on Tribal lands)
  • Up to $100 discount on devices (tablets, laptops, desktops) with a small co-pay ($10-$50)
  • Can be combined with Lifeline for additional savings

Survivor Benefits

WIC enrollment is also accepted as a qualifying program for survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, and related crimes under the Safe Connections Act, which provides additional eligibility pathways for Lifeline.

Other Programs

Some nonprofit organizations and state programs also accept WIC as proof of eligibility for low-cost or free devices.

Programs That Accept WIC

The following programs accept WIC as proof of eligibility:

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How to Apply

  1. Verify Your WIC Status: Make sure you have an active WIC case. You'll need your WIC card or case number.
  2. Gather Documents: You may need a benefit letter from your local WIC office showing your participation, or your WIC card.
  3. Choose a Program: Browse programs that accept WIC using our Program Finder.
  4. Apply: Visit the program's official website and complete the application. Select "WIC" as your qualifying program when asked.

Required Documents

When applying for device programs with WIC, you may need:

  • WIC benefit letter or certification letter (issued within the last 12 months)
  • WIC card (as proof of participation)
  • Proof of identity (driver's license, state ID, or other government-issued ID)
  • Proof of address (utility bill, lease, or other official document)

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be currently receiving WIC to qualify?

Yes, you typically need an active WIC case. Most programs require proof of current participation, usually within the last 12 months.

What if my child ages out of WIC?

If your child ages out of WIC (turns 5), you may need to requalify for device programs based on income or other assistance programs. Check with your program provider about recertification requirements.

Can I use WIC to qualify for multiple programs?

Yes, you can use your WIC eligibility to apply for multiple device programs. However, you can typically only receive one ACP benefit per household.

Does WIC qualify for Lifeline?

WIC primarily qualifies for ACP. For Lifeline, you typically need SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, SSDI, or income-based eligibility. However, WIC can be used for survivor benefits under the Safe Connections Act.

Ready to Find Programs?

Use our Program Finder to discover all programs that accept WIC.

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