eWIC: Getting on Board

Objectives Explain the goals of eWIC. Identify plan for eWIC in Idaho.

What is eWIC? WIC Electronic Benefit Transfer system (EBT) is called eWIC The movement from checks to card

eWIC goals Deliver WIC benefits and reconcile payments through an eWIC system that is affordable at the statewide operational level. Enhance client services by improving access to prescribed WIC foods and simplifying the retail point-of-sale transaction to reduce stigma and improve shopping convenience. Increase accountability and streamline program monitoring for WIC State agencies. Make WIC benefit redemption and payments more efficient for retailers.

Why? Participant Local WIC Agency / Clinic Vendor State Office

How? eWIC Environment Agency Environment Interface Accounts, Benefits, Cards APL, Retailer Eligibility / Certification System Program Management eWIC Processing System Account Management Clients Client Processing Local Office Private Networks Customer Service Provider, Retailer, ATM Public Networks Benefit Redemption Bank Interface $ $ State or Federal Designated Bank Payment Authorization

eWIC Transaction Card is swiped or inserted and the cardholder enters her/his PIN System validates the card, PIN and retailer Balance obtained Each food item is scanned Compared to APL to determine if it is an allowable WIC item Compared to cardholder balance to determine if there is sufficient balance to purchase Store price is captured for each food item Discounts such as coupons, loyalty cards or other store or manufacturer specials are captured The system approves/denies the transaction. If approved: The household’s account balance is reduced by the amounts (qty) of each item being purchased, and Paid amount for the transaction calculated A receipt showing Purchase details and the new food balance Expiration date of available food items

When? Year 1 Planning Year 2 procuring contracts for implementation –Bank –MIS Year 3 Implementation Year 4 Design, Development, Testing, Pilot We are here

Planning Activities months Plan the project Determine system needs Gather stakeholder input & evaluate vendor readiness Write the IAPD w/ project management plan Write RFPs for Implementation and QA Contractors

Implementation Timeline months State submits IAPD to FNS IAPD approved by FNS State submits Implementation RFP RFP approved by FNS State releases Implementation RFP Proposals due from bidders Proposals evaluated State submits contract to FNS Contract approved by FNS State begins implementation activities