OIG reviews retailers’ compliance with WIC program rules

The Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Vendor Monitoring Unit (VMU) cited violations in five stores during the first quarter of fiscal year 2025 after completing compliance buys at 88 Texas retailers. Compliance buys are a covert in-store inspection where a WIC-funded benefits card is used to make purchases to verify that vendors are following WIC rules. The most common program violations include not prominently displaying product pricing and mislabeling items as WIC-approved, which are ineligible for program funds.

When a store is selected for inspection, the location is visited twice within 24 months to determine if the store is continuously upholding program rules. Stores that pass both reviews are notified in writing within 60 days. Stores that violate program rules are notified in writing within 10 business days and continue to undergo compliance buys until the retailer passes two compliance buys or sufficient evidence is collected showing the vendor is non-compliant with program rules.

The OIG also conducted 12 overt inspections, working with program vendors to identify deficiencies in the sale of WIC-eligible products. During this inspection OIG members may note the cost of products on shelves, if stock is adequate for possible buyers, expiration dates on WIC items and program signage. Inspectors also review whether WIC labeled Items meet the least expensive brand requirements. Retailers with questions about program inspections can find additional information in the Texas WIC Program Vendor Monitoring Guide.