How to Apply for WIC in Maryland

Maryland WIC is delivered by local health departments rather than a single state office, so applying starts with contacting the WIC office for your county — or creating an account at the WIC Client Portal, where new applicants can complete a pre-screening tool and schedule a certification appointment online without calling first. You can also call the statewide WIC hotline at 1-800-242-4942 and ask to be connected to your local agency.

Before Your Appointment

• Proof of identity for each person applying — for adults: driver's license, MVA identification, Social Security card, or other government, school, or employment photo ID; for infants and children: birth certificate, Social Security card, or immunization records
• Proof of Maryland address — a driver's license or MVA ID with your current address, an official bill or statement, or a rental or lease agreement
• Proof of household income — recent pay stubs or benefit letters (SSI, Social Security, unemployment) or a tax return. If your household receives SNAP (Independence Card), Medical Assistance, or TCA, bring that documentation instead — it replaces income proof entirely
• If applicable — documentation of pregnancy from a healthcare provider, immunization records for infants and children, or a WIC referral

Every person applying for benefits — including infants and all children up to age five — needs to attend the first appointment, since it includes height, weight, and hemoglobin measurements as part of the nutrition assessment.

What Happens at Your Appointment

A WIC health professional verifies your documents, takes measurements, and completes a nutritional assessment for each person applying. Maryland customizes food packages per person, including accommodations for diagnosed food allergies — substitutions like lactose-free or soy milk can be discussed with your WIC nutritionist. If you're approved, your eWIC card is loaded with your first month of benefits, often the same day.

Virtual Appointments

Maryland WIC offers virtual appointments in addition to in-person visits. If an in-person visit isn't possible, contact your local WIC office to ask whether a virtual option is available — availability can vary by county and appointment type. Once enrolled, use the WIC Client Portal or MD WIC app to manage appointments and benefits between visits.

Recertification and Moving To or From Maryland

Recertification follows the schedule above under "Staying Enrolled" on the main WIC page. If you're moving to Maryland from another state, contact a local WIC office and bring the Verification of Certification (VOC) form from your previous state. If you're leaving Maryland, ask your WIC office for a VOC form before you go so your new state can continue your benefits without starting over. Your Maryland eWIC card only works at authorized vendors within Maryland.