If you have a problem at the grocery store, ask to speak with the store manager.

Pay attention when scanning to make sure you are charged the correct shelf price.

Buy fresh fruits and vegetables that are in season.

Take advantage of 'buy one, get one free' specials.

Create a weekly meal plan based on food prices.

Below are some additional shopping tips that can stretch your checks and food dollars: You should also set a reminder for yourself a day or two before your WIC checks expire so you don't risk having a check expire and not be able to use it.

If possible, try to make your trips to the store to buy food for the California WIC program separate from regular grocery trips as this can make things easier for yourself. Spreading out your WIC checks can help supplement your food purchases. It is recommended that you try not to use all of your checks at once, or you will end up with a lot of milk and other things that could go bad or spoil. Your alternate shopper must sign the front of the WIC ID envelope before going to the store. Please remember, only you or your alternate shopper may sign the checks at the store. From there, show them your California WIC ID envelope. Tell the cashier you are using WIC checks and make sure they put the correct amount on the check. Each WIC check must be rung up separately by the cashier. At checkout make sure you separate your food items from non-WIC food items. While shopping at your local grocery store, do not use your checks before the 'First Date to Use' or after the 'Last Date to Use.' Buy only the food printed on your check. Or if you have one, your CA WIC EBT card.

Always bring your signed WIC folder with you as well, which contains the California WIC approved food list and your checks and vouchers. Once you have found a store, we recommend you contact them to verify they still sell WIC approved foods, as their status may have changed.Īlso, because not all foods are approved at these stores, you should sit down and plan your shopping trip, so you will be ready when you get there. We try to provide the WIC locations phone number, address and hours of operations for each California WIC vendor listed on this site. Simply select a city below and see all available locations in that city. Below is a list of cities that have WIC approved stores in California.

Wic approved stores near me