How to Apply for WIC in Tennessee
Applying for WIC in Tennessee is free, and most households get an eligibility decision the same day they're seen. Here's how to get started, what to bring, and what happens at your appointment.
This site is an independent, non-government WIC directory and isn't affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by any state or federal government agency. Always verify details directly with the official agency before visiting or applying.
Quick Answer
Contact the Tennessee Department of Health, the official WIC agency for Tennessee, to schedule an eligibility appointment. Bring proof of identity, address, and income (or proof you're already on Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF) — most applicants get a decision the same day they're seen.
Applying for WIC in Tennessee
Tennessee does not have a statewide online WIC application. WIC services are available through 126 sites organized across 14 regional zones statewide, so the process starts by contacting the clinic or county health department nearest you.
Step 1: Find Your Local Clinic and Schedule
Visit tn.gov/health/wic and use the clinic finder to search by county or city, then call the clinic directly to schedule a certification appointment. For general WIC information and clinic referrals statewide, call 1-800-DIAL-WIC (1-800-342-5942).
Shelby County residents: Do not use the statewide line. Call the Shelby County Health Department Call Center at (901) 222-9980 to schedule all WIC appointments.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
- Proof of identity for yourself and any children applying — a driver's license, birth certificate, state ID, or other government-issued document
- Proof of Tennessee residency — a utility bill, lease agreement, official mail, or any document with your current Tennessee address
- Proof of income — a recent pay stub, bank statement, employer letter, or documentation of SNAP, Families First (TANF), or TennCare enrollment, which replaces income proof entirely
- Immunization records for children applying, if available
- TennCare cards for yourself and any children, if applicable
- For pregnant applicants: documentation from a healthcare provider confirming pregnancy
Step 3: Your Certification Appointment
At the appointment, a WIC health professional verifies your documents, conducts a brief nutritional and health assessment (including height, weight, and sometimes a blood test for anemia), and determines your food package. In many cases you can be certified and receive your first TNWIC card loaded with benefits the same day. Staff will also make referrals if they identify potential eligibility for TennCare, SNAP, or other services.
Recertification and Moving To or From Tennessee
Contact your clinic before your certification period ends to schedule a renewal appointment and avoid a gap in benefits — TNWIC benefits for each monthly period expire and do not roll over. If you're moving within Tennessee, contact the WIC clinic in your new county to transfer your certification. If you're moving out of state, ask your current clinic for a Verification of Certification (VOC) before you go so your new state can continue your benefits without a full recertification.
Tennessee WIC Application Questions
Can I apply for Tennessee WIC online?
No. Tennessee does not have a statewide online WIC application. Contact your local county health department or WIC clinic to schedule a certification appointment. Find your nearest clinic at tn.gov/health/wic or call 1-800-DIAL-WIC (1-800-342-5942). Shelby County residents call (901) 222-9980 instead.
What do I need to bring to my Tennessee WIC appointment?
Bring proof of identity for yourself and each person applying, proof of Tennessee residency, and proof of income — or proof of SNAP, Families First (TANF), or TennCare enrollment if you receive those, which replaces income documentation. Bring your child's immunization records and TennCare cards if applicable, and pregnancy documentation from your provider if applying while pregnant.
Can I get certified and receive my TNWIC card on the same day I apply?
In many cases, yes. Tennessee WIC can certify eligible applicants and issue a TNWIC card loaded with the first month of benefits at the certification appointment itself. Call your local clinic ahead of time to confirm same-day issuance at that location.
What happens to my Tennessee WIC benefits if I move to another county or state?
Moving within Tennessee: contact the WIC clinic in your new county to transfer your certification. Moving out of Tennessee: ask your current clinic for a Verification of Certification (VOC) before you move, then bring it to a WIC clinic in your new state to continue benefits without starting over. Your TNWIC card only works within Tennessee.
Compare Other States
WIC application steps, required documents, and processing vary state by state. These share Tennessee's census region — useful if you're moving, or comparing how another state runs the same program.
Helpful Guides
What Is WIC?
An overview of the WIC program, who administers it, and how it works.
Learn more →WIC Eligibility
The four requirements to qualify for WIC — categorical status, income, nutritional risk, and residency.
Learn more →WIC vs SNAP
Compare who qualifies, what benefits are provided, and whether you can receive both programs.
Learn more →WIC Income Limits
See the current household income limits to qualify for WIC, and what counts as income.
Learn more →WIC Benefit Amounts
The exact dollar and quantity breakdown of the monthly WIC food package by participant category.
Learn more →WIC EBT Card
How to use your WIC EBT card at the store, check your balance, and what to do if it's declined.
Learn more →WIC Approved Foods
Browse WIC-covered foods by category, from milk and eggs to fruits, vegetables, and formula.
Learn more →Find a WIC Clinic
Search WIC clinic locations by state and city, with addresses and phone numbers.
Learn more →WIC Recertification
When your WIC certification expires, what to bring to your renewal appointment, and how to avoid a gap in benefits.
Learn more →