You Can Get Free At-Home COVID Tests. Here’s How to Sign Up.

In response to a recent increase in hospitalizations due to COVID-19, the U.S. government is once again giving out free COVID-19 rapid tests – and they’ll be delivered to your door.

The tests are designed to detect new COVID-19 strains that are currently circulating, and are intended for use by the end of 2023. However, some tests are viable beyond their printed expiration date. You can determine test viability here.

Since July 2023, hospitalizations due to the coronavirus have risen dramatically. The U.S. Center For Disease Control and Prevention reports that more than 20,500 people were hospitalized with COVID-19 during the week that ended Sept. 9.

How to Get Your Free At-Home COVID-19 Tests

Households can order four free tests via covidtests.gov. There is no charge for the tests and shipping is free. Tests will start shipping the week of Oct. 2.

When you click to order, you will be redirected to special.usps.com/testkits. There, you will submit your name and full address, plus your email address if you want shipment updates from the U.S. Postal Service.

No other information is requested from this official site, including bank account or credit card numbers. Any attempt to acquire more information beyond name and address is a scam.

You will not receive any texts, email solicitations or phone calls related to your request for the tests. Any such contact is a scam. Contact the Federal Trade Commission here if there is any attempt to acquire further information with the promise of sending free COVID-19 tests.

Need a COVID-19 Test Now?

Pharmacies and other retailers may have a supply of the new COVID-19 tests as well. Contact your local pharmacy to see if they have any tests on hand, and what costs may apply.

Meanwhile, there are still thousands of free COVID-19 testing sites around the country, because the virus has not gone away and continues to mutate. A quick Google search of “free Covid testing near me” will supply locations currently in operation in your area.

Kent McDill is a veteran journalist who has specialized in personal finance topics since 2013. He is a contributor to The Penny Hoarder.