WIC Retailer Application

Missouri WIC participants can continue to redeem WIC benefits in November. WIC families should continue to attend appointments and shop with their WIC cards.

Thank you for your interest in becoming an authorized Missouri WIC retailer. Here you will find everything you need to know to determine if your store meets the minimum criteria and stocking requirements.

To be an authorized Missouri WIC retailer, you must:

  • Meet the Full-Service Selection Criteria Stocking Requirements.
    • In addition, you will be assigned to meet the Tier 1 or Tier 2 stocking requirement for WIC-approved food based on your application.
  • Have passed a sanitation inspection within the past year.
  • Been in business in the current location for at least a year.
  • Be registered with the Missouri Secretary of State’s Office.
  • Pass a pre-agreement site visit.
  • Complete an in person new retailer training.
  • Submit a copy of an infant formula invoice.

The full criteria is located in the WIC Retailer Manual and guided by the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 246.12.

In addition to the stocking requirements, authorized WIC retailers are required to purchase all infant formula from approved licensed or authorized retailers, distributors or wholesalers. Any distributor or wholesaler not on this list may contact the WIC state agency to request consideration for inclusion.

If you are interested in becoming an authorized Missouri WIC retailer, please complete the WIC Retailer and Authorization Application and email the completed form to MOWICVendorGroup@health.mo.gov or mail to:

WICNS
Attn: Retailer Unit
P.O. Box 570
Jefferson City, MO 65102-0570

Other forms needed to complete your application will be emailed to you after the application is received. These forms include:

  • Price list.
  • Communication form.

After your application and forms are approved, you are required to attend an in-person new retailer training and pass an in-person pre-agreement visit from a member of the WIC retailer team.

Frequently asked questions

What is a full-service grocery store?

To be considered a full-service grocery store in Missouri, a grocery store must meet the following the to stocking requirements:

  • Five varieties of fresh vegetables and five varieties of fresh fruit.
  • Three varieties of frozen vegetables and two varieties of frozen fruit.
  • Three varieties of canned vegetables and three varieties of canned fruit.
  • Canned fish.
  • Two varieties of breadstuff.
  • Minimum of three varieties each of beef, poultry and pork or lamb, for a total of nine varieties of meat.

Do I need to register with the Missouri Secretary of State for a charter number?

Yes. The store name on the application must be the same name as registered with the Missouri Secretary of State.

What is a pre-agreement visit?

As required by federal regulations, a Missouri WIC state agency representative will conduct a pre-agreement visit prior to authorization to ensure that the store meets all requirements. The state agency representative will note WIC food prices and shelf inventory on a pre-agreement visit form. They will also review and note the store’s square footage, and any concerns they find during the pre-agreement visit.

How long does the application process take?

The application process could take four to six weeks from the date that the state agency receives the complete application and all required forms from the owner.

How do I attract WIC customers?

Once a store is authorized, a message is sent to local agencies where WIC families go to receive their WIC cards and other services. The WIC families are advised of all WIC retailers in their area that accept WIC cards to purchase WIC-approved food items. Also, the WIC locations map shows the locations of authorized WIC retailers. The map is updated monthly and is also on the WICShopper app.

How do I get reimbursed for WIC purchases?

WIC transactions are processed in real time by the state agency banking contractor, and the payments are deposited directly into your store bank account. WIC transactions are processed daily.

What types of food does WIC authorize?

WIC approves the following types of food:

  • Milk and soy milk.
  • Eggs.
  • Cheese.
  • Cold and hot cereal.
  • Juice.
  • Peanut butter.
  • Dried beans, peas and lentils.
  • Canned beans.
  • Infant cereal.
  • Infant formula.
  • Infant fruit, vegetables and meats.
  • Tofu, tuna and sardines.
  • Whole wheat bread.
  • Brown rice.
  • Tortillas.
  • Whole wheat pasta.
  • Fresh and frozen fruit and vegetables.

Specific brands, types and sizes are listed in the WIC Approved Food List, WICShopper app and the WIC Retailer Manual.

How much do I charge for the food items approved for WIC?

WIC retailers must maintain prices for approved items that are comparable to the prices of other authorized stores of similar size and type in the same area.

What is a WIC Retailer Agreement?

A WIC Retailer Agreement is a contract between the Missouri WIC state agency and the store. This contract is a time-limited agreement and explains in detail the rights and responsibilities of both parties.

When can I submit an application?

Applications may be submitted at any time. However, during reauthorization periods applications will be held until the reauthorizations are complete.