The Iowa Department of Public Health is asking for citizens to stop selling and trading WIC benefits on social media sites. In a press release, the IDPH says WIC local agencies continue to inform the department that they personally have identified advertisements or have received information from the public regarding advertisements on social media sites for the sale of WIC benefits, particularly infant formula. The continued report of these actions indicates to the state WIC office and to USDA that this illegal activity is ongoing.

WIC benefits are issued to pregnant and postpartum women, infants and children who have been certified as eligible to participate in the program in accordance to federal regulations. WIC food instruments and cash value vouchers may only be used by a WIC participant, a caregiver, or a designated proxy to purchase WIC eligible food items for the participant’s use. Any other use of WIC benefits, including the posting of WIC benefits for sale on the internet, is evidence that the participant committed a violation and is therefore subject to program sanctions.

The USDA has consulted with their office of general counsel and requested that all national social media sites post a notice regarding the illegality of selling WIC benefits, particularly infant formula on its website and that WIC food and benefits be added to its list of prohibited items. The state WIC office in the Iowa Department of Public Health is now requesting the same actions from local social media sites. If you have seen someone posting WIC benefits, contact the IDPH office by calling 515-281-7095 or by email at jill.lange@idph.iowa.gov.