How to Order Free At-Home COVID-19 Tests From the US Government

Starting in late September, you can once again order a set of four free COVID-19 test kits online from the US government. With just a few clicks, these kits will be mailed directly to your home. Every household in the US—including territories and military addresses—is eligible. Even if you've been vaccinated against the current variant, it's wise to have tests on hand since you can still catch and spread the virus.

How to Order Tests

1. Visit the Official Website: Go directly to the US Postal Service’s COVID-19 page. If you're on COVID.gov, click on "Order Free At-Home Tests," which will redirect you to the USPS order page.
2. Fill Out the Form: Enter your name and shipping address. Providing your email address is optional but recommended for shipping notifications.
3. Place Your Order: Click the “Check Out Now” button to finalize your request. The tests and shipping are completely free. Remember, only one order per household is allowed.

For Those Without Internet Access

If someone you know doesn't have internet access, you can assist by filling out the form on their behalf. Alternatively, they can call the COVID.gov helpline at 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489) for support. Note that calling USPS directly won't help, as they cannot place orders over the phone.

How to Check if Old Tests Are Still Good

If you have leftover tests from previous orders or purchases, they're likely still usable. Visit the FDA's list of authorized at-home tests to check if the expiration dates have been extended. Manufacturers often update expiration dates after providing additional data on their tests' shelf life.

Common Problems When Using the Site

• Address Recognition Issues: If your address isn't recognized, ensure it's entered correctly. For apartments or units, double-check that all necessary information is included.
• Multiple Families at One Address: Only one order is allowed per residential address. If multiple families share the same address, you might encounter issues.
• Technical Glitches: High traffic may cause the site to slow down or experience errors. If this happens, try refreshing the page or returning later.

Vaccinations and Boosters

Staying up-to-date with your COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters is crucial. Check my guide on when to get vaccinated. Then, visit Vaccines.gov to find vaccination sites near you. Vaccines are a key component in reducing the spread and severity of the virus.