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Starting in late September, U.S. residents will once again be able to order a set of four free Covid-19 test kits online from the government. With just a few clicks, these kits will be mailed directly to your home. Available to every household in the U.S., including territories and military addresses, having these tests on hand is beneficial, as you can still contract and transmit the virus even if you are vaccinated against the current variant.
If you require a test immediately, we have a guide to help you find the best at-home kits, along with instructions for ordering and using them. Be sure to check out our recommendations for effective N95 and reusable masks.
How to Order Your Tests
To order your tests, visit the U.S. Postal Service’s Covid-19 page. Alternatively, if you go to Covid.gov, you’ll find an option that says “Order Free At-Home Tests” prominently displayed. Clicking on it will redirect you to the USPS order page, where you will need to provide your name, address, and email for shipping notifications. Once your details are filled in, simply click the “Check Out Now” button. The tests are fully free, including shipping, and only one request should be made per household.
If you know someone without internet access, you can fill out the request form for them. They can also try calling the Covid.gov helpline at 1-877-696-6775, but be prepared for potential wait times. Avoid calling USPS, as their representatives cannot place orders on behalf of customers.
Your test kits should arrive within a few days. While the specific brand you receive may vary and cannot be chosen by you, the tests provided are FDA-authorized at-home rapid antigen tests. There is a good chance you might receive iHealth tests, which we recommend.
As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, you should take a test as soon as you notice any symptoms or within five days after potential exposure. If you test negative but are asymptomatic, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for retesting, which typically occurs within two days. Most testing kits include two tests for this purpose. Should your test come back positive, it’s important to retest for confirmation and to consider quarantining for five days.
Are Your Old Tests Expired?
If you have leftover tests from previous government distributions or personal purchases, they are likely still usable. Check the FDA’s list of authorized at-home tests to verify. If the expiration date has been extended, this indicates that the manufacturer has provided evidence to the FDA that the tests remain effective beyond their initial expiration dates.
Do You Need a Test Right Now?
If you find yourself in need of a test urgently, consult our guide on Rapid At-Home Covid-19 Tests, which provides further information on their accuracy. Typically, rapid tests yield results in about 15 minutes and have an accuracy rate of approximately 85 percent.
The Tests We Recommend (for more retailer options, please refer to our guide).
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