Starting in late September, households across the United States, including US territories and military addresses, can once again order a set of four free Covid-19 test kits online from the US government. These kits will be delivered directly to residents’ homes. It is advisable to have tests available since vaccinated individuals can still contract and transmit the virus.
For those in need of a test immediately, guides are available to assist in finding the best at-home tests, and instructions for ordering and using these tests are provided. Additional resources include guides for selecting the best N95 masks and other reusable masks.
### How to Order Your Tests
To place an order for the free Covid-19 test kits, individuals should visit the US Postal Service’s Covid-19 page. Alternatively, navigating through Covid.gov and selecting the “Order Free At-Home Tests” option will redirect to the USPS order page. Users will need to fill in their name, address, and email to receive shipping notifications and proceed by clicking the “Check Out Now” button. All orders, including shipping, are free of charge, and only one order per household is allowed.
If anyone without internet access needs help, another individual can complete the online form on their behalf. They also have the option to call the Covid.gov helpline at 1-877-696-6775, though this may entail a long wait. It is recommended not to contact USPS directly to place orders.
The test kits are expected to arrive within a few days, though the specific brand cannot be selected or guaranteed. The kits provided are FDA-authorized at-home rapid antigen tests.
### Are Your Old Tests Expired?
For those with existing test kits from previous government shipments or personal purchases, it’s advisable to check the FDA’s list of authorized at-home tests to determine if the expiration date has been extended. Any extensions indicate that the manufacturer has provided data to the FDA demonstrating a longer shelf-life than initially authorized.
### Do You Need a Test Right Now?
For urgent testing needs, guidance on Rapid At-Home Covid-19 Tests is available, including information on where to find them and their accuracy. Rapid test results are typically available in approximately 15 minutes with an accuracy rate of about 85 percent.
For further recommendations on Covid-19 test kits, refer to the comprehensive guide provided.