Kroger is a large retailer that offers several payment options that cater to all kinds of customers. This is one reason why they stand out among many retail stores in America!
However, if you are on the WIC benefits program, you may be wondering whether or not Kroger accepts WIC. Here is what I discovered!
Does Kroger Accept WIC?
Kroger does accept WIC benefits at most store locations. However, this can vary from state to state as each has its own list of eligible stores. Before visiting Kroger to use your WIC card, it is recommended to visit the Usda.gov database website to see whether or not your local Kroger accepts WIC benefits.
If you need more information on which Kroger location does or does not accept WIC, what kinds of items you can purchase using WIC, and the limits applicable, then read on.
Does Kroger Accept WIC at All Locations?
Although the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is a special grant provided by the federal government under the USDA, it is the states that approve qualifying stores.
Because of this, customers in certain states will not be able to use their WIC benefits card at Kroger as they are not supported.
However, the majority of the over 2,000 locations where Kroger operates accept WIC.
How Do I Know Which Kroger Store Accepts WIC?
First, you can contact the Kroger store nearest to you and find out.
Alternatively, you can simply go to the USDA website and follow the directory to find out if your local store is approved. It is probably better to explore both options if possible.
What Items Can I Buy at Kroger Using WIC?
Not all brands, foods, or edible items can be bought with your WIC card. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has provided a comprehensive buying guide for WIC beneficiaries.
Most states also provide a sufficient guide, so you might also want to clarify the qualifying items on your state’s website.
You can find the USDA requirements for WIC-eligible foods here. But keep in mind that WIC state agencies have the liberty to only authorize selected kinds of foods on the state WIC food list.
This means that your state WIC agency may not permit the purchase of some foods even though they meet WIC eligibility requirements.
Here are some of the items that qualify for the WIC program. Note that this rule is general for all retail stores in the country.
- Cereal
- Milk (infant cereal and adult cereal)
- Vitamin C-rich fruit or vegetable juice
- Eggs
- Cheese
- Peanut butter
- Canned fish
- Dried peas/beans
- Soy-based beverages
- Yogurt
- Fruits and vegetables
- Baby foods
- Whole-wheat bread and other whole grains
Can I Use WIC at Self-Checkout at Kroger Stores?
Yes, Kroger allows self-checkout, and you can run your WIC Cards like any other card payment option (EBT, Debit, and Credit cards).
If you’re not sure the items you bought are WIC-approved, you can ask the attendant or cashier to confirm. At self-checkout, you’ll need to do the following:
- Separate the WIC-approved items you bought
- Choose the WIC card payment option or just swipe your WIC card
- Finally, review the printed receipts once more just to make certain that you only paid for WIC-approved items with your card
- Non-WIC-approved items can be paid for using any other allowed payment option.
Am I Limited to a Certain Amount With My WIC Card at Kroger?
Currently, while you can shop for any WIC-approved food item, there’s a maximum monthly allowance for Supplemental Foods for Children and Women.
This is, of course, dependent on the age of the infant, and child, and whether the woman is pregnant or just breastfeeding.
So, before you go shopping, it’s important to keep this in mind. For more details on the maximum allowed limit, see the full guide here.
To learn more, you can see our related posts on whether or not CVS, Target, Walgreens, and Walmart accept WIC benefits!
Conclusion
Kroger allows participants of the federal government WIC program to shop for WIC-approved items. However, not all Kroger stores are eligible because individual states appoint WIC-approved retailers within their borders. You will need to contact your local Kroger store or check the state database to find out if they accept WIC.
