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The New Mexico WIC program is administered by the state’s Department of Health, Public Health Division. The program’s full name is the Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants and Children and it receives federal funding through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). This important program is designed to assist low-income and nutritionally at-risk mothers and young children throughout the country. The NM WIC office is dedicated to providing special supplemental food benefits and educational resources to mothers and children who meet eligibility requirements for benefits.

The WIC program also offers benefits through the Indian Tribal Organizations located throughout the state. Residents who need assistance paying for food or who need help feeding their young children should review the application process and eligibility criteria for the program. By learning more about how the program provides for these eligible applicants, residents can find out if these benefits will assist them and their family members. To review more about WIC eligibility and to find out how to apply for benefits through the program, state residents can review the following sections.

What are the WIC requirements in New Mexico?

Before you wonder, “How do I find a WIC office near me in New Mexico?” you should review the eligibility requirements of the program. It is important to understand how to meet these eligibility criteria so you can be ready for the application process and learn whether you will be approved or denied benefits. The USDA sets general guidelines for eligibility and the NM Department of Health adds to these requirements to ensure only residents who are in need receive assistance.

The WIC qualifications in NM address an applicant’s residency, monthly income and current family situation. The eligibility criteria for the program includes the following:

• New Mexico residency. An eligible applicant must be a resident in the state and be able to prove his or her residency.
• Low-income guidelines. Gross income is calculated for each applicant and WIC program representatives determine if these guidelines are met. These requirements are also related to the Federal Poverty Limit (FPL). Therefore, the exact low-income requirements can change periodically, depending on the financial climate of the country. To review the requirements for the WIC program in New Mexico, download our comprehensive guide.
• Pregnant, post-partum or young child. To receive program benefits, an applicant must be currently pregnant, postpartum or currently breastfeeding a child. The applicant may also still qualify for benefits if he or she is an infant younger than 1 year of age or a young child younger than 5 years of age. Any parent or guardian of a young child can complete the WIC application process for him or her if benefits are needed.
• Nutritional risk. Benefits are only provided to applicants who can show they or their qualifying children are facing nutritional risk. To prove this requirement is met, an applicant must submit to an evaluation by a professional and must complete a diet survey. If nutritional risk is confirmed, the program enrollee must attend counseling sessions to learn about the consequences of not meeting nutritional needs and the importance of obtaining the proper nutrition.

In addition to these qualifications, a potential beneficiary must learn how to apply for WIC and complete all steps in the application process before benefits are provided to him or her.

How to Apply for WIC in New Mexico

If you think you qualify for program benefits, keep in mind you cannot apply for WIC online in New Mexico and you must complete the application process in person. A Department of Health representative must speak to you or your young child in person to analyze eligibility for the program, including nutritional risk. While you may be able to learn more about the program and whether you qualify for benefits online, you cannot complete an application without visiting an office.

To successfully complete the WIC application process, you must make an appointment with a WIC office in your area, attend the meeting and complete all steps with the assistance of a representative.

What can you get with WIC in New Mexico?

New Mexico WIC benefits are helpful for families and pregnant women who are in need of education or food to provide for themselves and their young family members. Program applicants who qualify for the program may receive:

• Nutritional education from nutritionists and other licensed medical professionals.
• Financial benefits to purchase supplemental food that meets the specific applicant’s needs.
• Information on breastfeeding and counseling sessions.
• Referrals to health programs, as needed.
• Customized referrals to social programs from counselors, if applicable.

A professional at WIC checks to ensure eligible program enrollees are provided with important educational materials that can assist in ensuring the families stay healthy. Additional counseling, food and other benefits are also provided as needed to the approved applicant.

How to Prepare for a WIC Appointment in New Mexico

In NM, a WIC appointment is required for a resident to complete in order to apply for program benefits. A representative at a WIC agency must speak with a potential applicant to ensure all program qualifications are met before benefits are proved. If eligible, the applicant’s situation and needs are also analyzed so the representative can determine what information, referrals and supplemental food is needed.

To prepare to visit the WIC office for the appointment, a potential applicant should gather specific documentation that proves eligibility. The applicant should bring the following to the appointment:

• Proof of residency.
• Identification.
• The last 30 days of paycheck stubs for any household member who currently earns an income.
• Proof of any additional income received by the family, including government assistance.
• Current Medicaid cards, if any household members are currently enrolled.
• A completed diet survey, as provided by the Department of Health.

To learn more about WIC in New Mexico, review our detailed guide.

How to Check Your WIC Balance in New Mexico

Once you are approved for the program, your NM WIC benefits are provided on an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. This card can be used at qualifying grocery stores and farmer’s markets in the area to purchase approved foods for yourself and your family. The amount of benefits you receive is based on your need or the need of your young child. It is important to review the qualifying grocers in your area, the acceptable foods and the educational information provided to you before shopping.

You can easily check your WIC balance online or by calling the number provided on your EBT card. Staying on budget with your program benefits for the month is an important part of becoming financially independent and establishing a healthy and nutritional lifestyle for yourself and your family members.