Changes & Updates for WIC Vendors

When You Must Notify DHS

Vendors must notify DHS within 30 calendar days of any material change to the information in their WIC Vendor Application. Some changes, like ownership transfers, must be reported before they occur.

All changes must be submitted through the WIC Vendor Change Notification Form (DocuSign webform).

Submit a Change Notification Form

Types of Changes You Must Report 

Ownership Changes

  • Notify DHS at least 15 days before:
    • Sale of the store
    • Lease, bankruptcy, or closure
    • Sale of a majority interest in the business entity (corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship)
  • If ownership changes, your current WIC authorization will end.
  • The new owner must apply as a New Vendor and cannot accept WIC until authorization is approved.
  • Continuing to accept WIC after an ownership change may require the store to repay benefits redeemed after the sale date.
  • You will be required to attach a Bill of Sale showing seller, buyer, and purchase price.

Store Location or Hours

  • Report if your store moves to a new address or significantly changes operating hours.
  • If you move, DHS may request an updated business license or recent health inspection report for the new location.
  • If the new store location is more than 2 miles from the previous site, your current authorization will end and you must apply as a New Vendor.
  • DHS may also require a new site visit to confirm continued WIC access. 

Business Closure

  • If your store closes permanently, submit the Change Notification Form within 30 days.

Change in Formula Supplier

  • Vendors must purchase infant formula only from Illinois WIC Authorized Formula Suppliers.
  • If you switch suppliers, you must notify DHS through the Change Notification Form and attach proof of purchase from the new supplier.

Voluntary Withdrawal

  • Vendors may use the Change Notification Form to withdraw from the WIC Program.
  • Withdrawal cannot be used to avoid or delay a sanction.

Other Material Changes

  • Changes in ownership structure (new partners, officers, or company name).
  • Changes in Point-of-Sale (POS) system provider.
  • Any event that affects your ability to meet WIC stocking, pricing, or transaction requirements.

What a New Owner Must Do

If a new owner takes over the business:

  • The previous authorization ends immediately.
  • The new owner must apply as a New Vendor.
  • See the How to Apply section for instructions.

Important Reminders

  • Authorization is not transferable. WIC approval does not carry over to new owners.
  • Violations during ownership transfer: If you redeem WIC benefits after the effective date of sale without authorization, your store may be required to repay DHS.
  • All changes must be reported through the DocuSign Notification Form.

Submit a Change Notification Form