Vendor Training FAQs
What are my responsibilities for training my store employees?
Store owners are responsible for making sure that all cashiers and front-end staff know how to process WIC transactions correctly. Remember, federal regulations and state rules make the store owner responsible for actions of its employees, or anyone accepting WIC transactions on behalf of the store. This means that if a cashier commits a program violation while conducting a WIC transaction, the store owner is who will be held responsible for it and any sanctions will be imposed upon the owner.
What types of training are available from the Illinois WIC Program?
Initial Training
At the time of application to become a WIC Vendor, all stores must complete an initial training online and pass a quiz demonstrating understanding of WIC Rules and Regulations. Once the WIC Application has been accepted, vendors will receive an invitation to complete the Initial Training which can be found at https://wic.irma.org. A password to access the initial training will be sent with the invitation. Once the online training has been completed, stores will receive an on-site visit where in-person education is provided, and Minimum Stock requirements are confirmed to be met.
Annual Training
At least one (1) store representative must complete the annual training annually and is expected to go back and make sure that all front-end staff are trained and understand any changes that are taking effect. These trainings are usually provided between March and May of each year. Currently authorized WIC Vendors will receive an invitation to complete the training in March and the training will be accessed through https://wic.irma.org.
Cashier Trainings
IL WIC has created cashier trainings with the collaboration of the Illinois Retail Merchants Association (IRMA). There is a cashier training for stores with Integrated Cash Register systems and a separate training for stores with Stand-Beside Devices to conduct WIC. We strongly recommend that all front-end staff complete the appropriate training based on the type of cash register system you have, at least annually and as part of the on-boarding process of new employees. These trainings can be accessed at any time at https://wic.irma.org.
Additional Training Options
We can also provide specific training to vendors by phone if they have certain questions about a part of their WIC Authorization. To do so, please contact DHS.WICVendor@Illinois.gov and specify the name of the store, store location, and what topic you are requesting training for.
If a store is found to be violating WIC Program rules, store staff may be required to complete additional training as well at the direction of the Department.
Vendor Training Materials
Vendor Training Modules
All WIC Training modules are put together and presented in collaboration with IRMA and can be found at https://wic.irma.org.
If you are unable to view any modules listed and need to request an alternate form of training, contact DHS.WICVendor@Illinois.gov or 844-901-0962.
