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As fall approaches, bringing cooler weather and the need for updated vaccines, it’s time to think about protecting yourself and your family from COVID-19. Besides getting your annual flu shot, it’s essential to stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations. With the release of the new Novavax vaccine, there are more options than ever. But what about testing? Fortunately, there’s good news: the federal government has started distributing free at-home COVID test kits once again.
Since September 26, U.S. households can order four free at-home COVID tests through the COVIDTests.gov website, as part of a government program aimed at expanding access to testing. This latest round of free tests is the first since December 2022, and it’s uncertain whether there will be additional distributions in the winter, so it’s wise to place your order as soon as possible.
The program, launched by President Joe Biden in January 2022, has already provided millions of households with free rapid antigen COVID tests. Each household is eligible to receive four tests per order. The ordering process is straightforward and takes less than two minutes to complete. You simply need to fill out a short form with your name and mailing address. There’s also a toll-free number available, 800-232-0233, for those who are unable to access the website.
While the tests will be shipped via USPS, it typically takes one to two weeks to receive them. Shipments usually arrive within seven to 12 days, and delivery takes an additional one to three days once the package has been sent.
Aside from the Postal Service’s free test kits, there are still other ways to get COVID-19 tests at no cost. The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) funds health centers across the U.S., where you can receive free COVID-19 testing. To find an HRSA center near you, use their online locator tool, enter your location, and follow the instructions provided.
Additionally, the federally funded “Test to Treat” initiative offers both COVID testing and treatment at designated locations. You can find a nearby center by using the Test to Treat locator tool, which works similarly to the HRSA tool. By entering your location, you can see available sites and find out what treatments they offer. If online scheduling isn’t an option at your chosen site, you may need to call for an appointment.
Remember, it’s not certain how long the free at-home test kits will be available, so it’s best to take advantage of this program now. As one expert put it, “Order now before they run out.”
