Where to start your WIC process in Michigan

To explore for WIC in Michigan, you contact your local health department or the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). The state runs WIC through regional offices, and you must explore in the county where you live. You cannot explore online — all applications happen in person, by phone, or by mail.

The fastest way is to call your county health department directly. They will tell you whether your household meets the income limits, what documents to bring, and whether appointments are available. If you do not know your county health department's number, you can call the Michigan WIC hotline at 1-800-942-7856 to find the office nearest you.

Some counties also accept applications by mail or phone, though in-person visits are more common. When you call, ask whether your county is currently accepting new applicants — some offices close their applications temporarily when caseloads are full.

Key Takeaways

  • You must explore through your county health department in the county where you live; there is no statewide online process.
  • Bring proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer), proof of residency (utility bill or lease), and proof of citizenship or immigration status.
  • Your household income must fall below the federal poverty line — the exact limit depends on family size and changes each year.
  • After approval, you receive a Michigan Bridge Card that works like a debit card at participating grocery stores and farmers markets.
  • Recertification happens every year, and you will receive a notice in the mail telling you when to reapply.

Documents you need to bring or mail

Michigan WIC requires three types of proof: income, residency, and citizenship or immigration status. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone are usually not accepted.

For income, bring recent pay stubs (usually the last 30 days), a tax return from the past year, or a signed letter from your employer on company letterhead stating your gross monthly income. If you receive unemployment, Social Security, or child support, bring the award letter or bank statement showing the deposit. If you are self-employed, bring tax returns and a profit-and-loss statement.

For residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill in your name dated within the past 60 days. A bank statement with your address also works. You do not need to own your home — renters are accepted.

For citizenship or immigration status, bring your Social Security card, birth certificate, passport, or immigration documents. If you have a work permit or green card, bring that. If you do not have these documents, ask the health department what alternatives they accept — some offices work with applicants who are still gathering paperwork.

Income limits and who can receive WIC in Michigan

Your household income must fall at or below 185 percent of the federal poverty line. For 2024, that means a household of four cannot earn more than approximately $4,755 per month gross income (before taxes). The exact limit changes each year and varies by family size.

WIC in Michigan covers pregnant women, postpartum women (up to six months after birth), breastfeeding women (up to one year after birth), infants under age one, and children ages one through four. You do not have to be a U.S. citizen, but you must live in Michigan and meet the income requirement.

If your household income is slightly above the limit, ask the health department whether you may still be considered — some offices have small exceptions for households with high medical expenses or childcare costs.

What happens after you submit your process

The health department will review your documents and contact you by phone or mail within 10 business days. If they need more information, they will tell you what is missing and give you a important date to provide it — usually 10 days.

If you are approved, you will receive your Michigan Bridge Card in the mail within one to two weeks. The card arrives with a PIN number. You can use it when ready at any store that displays the WIC logo — most grocery stores, many farmers markets, and some pharmacies accept it.

If you are not approved, the health department will send you a written notice explaining why and telling you how to request a hearing if you disagree with the decision.

Using your Michigan Bridge Card and what you can buy

Once approved, your monthly WIC benefit loads onto your Bridge Card automatically. The amount depends on your family size and composition — a mother with one infant receives a different benefit than a mother with two children ages two and four.

You can spend your WIC benefit only on specific foods: infant formula and baby food, milk, cheese, yogurt, eggs, beans and peanut butter, whole grain bread and cereal, fruits and vegetables, and juice. You cannot buy meat, prepared foods, vitamins, or anything not on the approved list. The cashier will know which items are WIC-may be able to access.

Your benefit does not roll over month to month — if you do not spend it, you lose it. Some people find it helpful to shop early in the month to avoid running out of funds later.

Recertification and keeping your WIC benefits

Your WIC approval lasts one year. About 60 days before your approval ends, the health department will mail you a recertification notice. You must reapply by the important date or your benefits will stop.

Recertification is simpler than the first process — you usually just need to bring updated income proof and confirm that your household composition has not changed. If you have a new baby or your income has changed, tell the health department at recertification.

If you move to a different county in Michigan, contact your new county health department to transfer your case. Do not wait until your approval expires.

What to do if you are denied or have questions

If the health department denies your process, you have the right to request a hearing. The denial notice will explain how to request one — usually you have 30 days. At a hearing, you can present additional documents or explain your situation to someone other than the caseworker who made the first decision.

If you have questions about your benefits, your card, or what you can buy, call your county health department. They can also help if your card stops working or if you need a replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I explore for WIC if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Yes. You do not have to be a citizen, but you must have a valid Social Security number or immigration document and live in Michigan. Bring whatever immigration paperwork you have — the health department will tell you if it is acceptable.

What if my income is above the limit but I just lost my job?

Tell the health department about the job loss when you explore. Some offices will use your expected future income rather than your current income if you can show the job ended recently. Bring a termination letter or final pay stub as proof.

Can I use my WIC card at farmers markets?

Yes, many farmers markets in Michigan accept WIC cards. Look for the WIC logo at the market entrance. You can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, and sometimes milk or cheese directly from vendors, though not all vendors accept WIC.

What happens if I move out of Michigan?

Your Michigan WIC benefits stop. If you move to another state, you must explore for that state's WIC program. Contact your new state's health department to learn about their process process.

Do I need to work to receive WIC?

No. WIC is based on income, not employment status. If you are unemployed, receiving unemployment benefits, or caring for children full-time, you can still explore as long as your household income is below the limit.