How are you feeling? As the surge of COVID-19 increases in the winter, along with flu season, it’s increasingly important to get tested for COVID-19, especially if you’re experiencing symptoms or have been exposed to someone who’s tested positive. Residential households in the U.S. are now eligible for another order of FREE at-home tests.
Photo By: EJ Hersom, U.S. Department of Defense
The tests are completely FREE — no cost whatsoever. No credit card or health insurance necessary.
Every U.S. household is eligible to receive four (4) FREE at-home COVID-19 tests. Limit one order per household.
Each order includes four (4) individual rapid antigen COVID-19 tests. For more details about at-home tests, including extended shelf life and updated expiration dates, visit COVID.gov/tests.
Orders will ship starting the week of December 19. Tests will be sent first-class mail via the U.S. Postal Service.
To get your complimentary kits, go to COVIDTests.gov and simply enter your name and address. Need help placing an order? You can also call 800-232-0233 (TTY 888-720-7489).
About the at-home COVID-19 tests
The tests are rapid antigen at-home tests (not PCR) and can be taken anywhere. There is no lab drop-off required. Get results at-home within 30 minutes.
The tests work whether or not you have COVID-19 symptoms and regardless of the status of your COVID-19 vaccines.
The tests are also commonly referred to as self-tests or over-the-counter (OTC) tests.
When should you take a test?
If you begin having COVID-19 symptoms, like fever, sore throat, runny nose or loss of taste or smell
OR
At least five (5) days after you come into close contact with someone with COVID-19
OR
When you’re going to gather with a group of people, especially those at risk of severe disease or may not be up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines.