Does WIC cover breast pumps?
Yes, if you’re pregnant or recently had a baby and you qualify for WIC, it can cover a breast pump and other types of breastfeeding support at no cost.
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (usually called WIC for short) helps millions of families access healthy food and nutrition support during pregnancy and early childhood.
Here’s everything you need to know about getting a free breast pump through WIC, including what types of pumps are covered and how to get started.
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What free breastfeeding support do you get with WIC?#what-free-breastfeeding-support-do-you-get-with-wic
If you plan to breastfeed or chestfeed or are currently breastfeeding, WIC offers support to make feeding your baby easier including peer groups, one-to-one counseling, and free equipment like breast pumps.
If you need a breast pump, WIC covers several types, but the exact pump you get will depend on your feeding plan, medical or situational needs, and how often you expect to pump.
Coverage and pump availability can also vary by state and by local WIC office, and pumps are provided based on your individual needs, not personal preferences.
In many states, breast pumps are loaned temporarily, especially for higher-powered electric pumps. After you talk about your pumping needs with your WIC case manager, another staff member, usually a lactation specialist, will help decide which option makes the most sense for you.
WIC may offer:#wic-may-offer
- Manual breast pumps: Best for occasional pumping or short separations from your baby. These pumps are lightweight, operated by hand, and easy to use without electricity
- Single electric breast pumps: Often recommended if you plan to pump regularly, like if you’re returning to paid work or school. Some states offer these as take-home pumps
- Hospital-grade, electric breast pumps: Usually loaned out and used when there’s a medical need, such as a premature baby, supply challenges, or a longer separation from your baby. These pumps are designed for frequent, long-term pumping
Once you get a pump, WIC staff will explain how long you can use the pump, whether it must be returned to the program, and what to do if the pump stops working.
How to get a free breast pump through WIC#how-to-get-a-free-breast-pump-through-wic
To get your free breast pump through WIC you’ll first need to apply and enroll in the program:
- Apply for WIC or confirm you’re enrolled: You must be enrolled in WIC to receive a free breast pump. Visit your state’s WIC page and fill out the online form or make an appointment at your local WIC office
- Gather any required documents: The WIC application typically requires photo ID, proof of income, proof of address, and information about your household
- Attend your WIC appointment: At your initial screening appointment, WIC staff will review your information, conduct a nutrition assessment, and discuss your health needs
Once you’re enrolled in WIC, or during the initial WIC appointment, here’s how to request breastfeeding support:
- Tell your WIC office you plan to breastfeed or chestfeed or are breastfeeding: Your case manager will record your request and get started on scheduling your assessment. Some offices provide pumps before birth, so you should ask as soon as you know you need one
- Complete a breastfeeding assessment: You will attend a breastfeeding assessment where a WIC staff member or lactation specialist will ask about your feeding plans, schedule, and any challenges
- Get matched with a pump type: Based on your needs and the program’s equipment availability, WIC will decide on a pump that makes sense
- Receive your pump: WIC will let you know how to get your pump. Depending on your location, you may be asked to pick it up from the WIC office, it may get delivered by mail, or you may be asked to check out a loaner pump
What if I can’t get the breast pump I need through WIC?#what-if-i-cant-get-the-breast-pump-i-need-through-wic
If you aren’t eligible for WIC, or WIC can’t give you the exact type of breast pump you want, there are some other options. Many families use more than one resource to get the support that works best for them.
Here are some options to explore:
- Health insurance or Medicaid: Many private and public health insurance plans, including Medicaid, are required to cover breast pumps under federal law. Coverage rules vary, but many plans offer a free or low-cost electric breast pump and replacement parts and supplies
- Hospitals and healthcare providers: Hospitals, OB-GYN offices, pediatricians, and lactation clinics sometimes lend hospital-grade pumps, provide short-term pump rentals, or help you order a pump through insurance
- Community health programs and nonprofits: Local health departments, breastfeeding coalitions, and community organizations may offer loaner pumps, breastfeeding classes and support groups, or help connect you to low-cost or free breastfeeding supplies
