Getting a COVID test at home is simple.
The U.S. government offers free kits by mail.
Every household can order them.
In this guide, you learn how to get them.
We explain eligibility, steps, timing, and more.
This is reliable, simple info.
Let’s begin.
Free Government COVID Test Kits by Mail
Why Free COVID Kits Matter
COVID still exists.
Many people need tests.
Testing helps know if you’re sick.
That guides your next steps—like isolation or care.
Not everyone can afford tests.
The federal program helps by sending at-home kits for free.
You don’t need insurance.
No credit card needed.
That keeps testing easy.
Who Can Order Them?
- Every U.S. household is eligible.
- One order per address.
- One person per household can place it.
- Up to 4 rapid antigen tests will be mailed.
- You need to provide name and address only.
- You can include your email to track shipping.
How to Order Your Test Kits
Ordering is simple on mobile or desktop:
- Open your web browser.
- Visit COVIDTests.gov or USPS site special.usps.com/testkits.
- Click “Order Free At‑Home Tests”.
- Enter your name, address, and email (optional).
- Confirm your info.
- Click “Place My Order”.
- You get an order number and email confirmation if you used email.
You never give payment info.
Shipping is free.
If someone asks for money or credit card, it’s a scam.
When Will Your Tests Arrive?
Orders ship via U.S. Postal Service (USPS).
Most arrive in 7–12 days.
You will see a tracking number if you provided email.
Your tests come in one or two small packages.
What’s Inside the Kit?
Each order brings 4 rapid antigen tests.
These are FDA‑authorized and easy to use at home.
They detect current COVID variants.
If used before the end of 2024, they are valid.
Some printed expiration dates may be out of date. The FDA has extended many dates.
Always follow instructions inside.
What If You Waited Too Long?
The program paused in March 2025.
Orders placed before March 9, 2025, 8 PM EDT will still be shipped.
If you haven’t ordered yet, you may not be able to.
Some local programs still give free tests to underserved areas.
Check state or local health department sites.
Other Free or Low-Cost Options
If the national program is paused, you can still access tests:
- Visit a state or local health department testing site. Many offer free testing.
- ICATT / Test-to-Treat clinics offer tests at no cost to uninsured people.
- Community health centers or HRSA-supported sites may supply free kits.
Search the CDC Testing Locator at TestingLocator.cdc.gov.
Some Medicaid plans and programs still pay for tests.
Medicaid coverage may vary by state.
How to Use the Test Kits
Use the kit quickly if you have symptoms or were exposed.
Follow the included instructions.
Usually, you swab your nose and wait 15 minutes for results.
If negative but symptoms persist, test again in 48 hours.
Some tests require repeating one or two more times over a few days.
If positive, isolate for 5 days.
Let people close to you know.
You can also report your result to public health agencies at MakeMyTestCount.org.
What to Do with Kits You Already Have
Your kit may show an expiration date that has passed.
Before discarding, check the FDA’s list to confirm if the date was extended.
Many kits remain valid even after the printed date.
Keep them in a cool, dry place.
Throw out kits if they fail a self-check line or if packaging is damaged.
Why This Program Was Created
COVID reached a critical point in early 2020.
Testing was needed to slow spread.
The government launched the program in 2022.
Over 900 million tests had been mailed by late 2023.
It paused in March 2025 due to funding.
But earlier in 2024 and fall, it reopened through September.
This aimed to support testing during respiratory seasons.
When You Need a Test—Here’s a Quick Checklist
If you have COVID symptoms or exposure:
- Use a test kit as soon as possible.
- Read and follow instructions carefully.
- Test again after 48 hours if your first result is negative.
- Report results if requested.
Before large events, travel, or visiting high-risk individuals is a good time to test.
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If you are out of tests:
- Buy at pharmacies or retail stores.
- Check insurance reimbursement or Medicare/Medicaid benefits.
- Or visit a free local testing site.
Trusted External Resource
For more official health guidance, you can visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website on COVID testing.
👉 CDC COVID‑19 Testing
This site explains testing options, locations for free tests, and testing recommendations.
Tips to Know Before Ordering
✅ Only one order per address.
✅ Tests ship in small USPS packages.
✅ Use your own email for tracking updates.
✅ No credit cards or fees ever asked.
✅ Discard tests only if packaging is bad or the kit fails control checks.
✅ Always order from covidtests.gov or USPS special testkits link.
What Will You Get?
Your kit includes 4 rapid antigen tests.
These detect current COVID variants.
Results appear in minutes.
They are ideal for home use.
Shipping is free.
No cost to you.
Everything is confidential.
Final Thoughts: Free Government COVID Test Kits by Mail: How to Order and Stay Safe 2025
Free government COVID test kits by mail help families stay safe.
Even during program pauses, other options remain.
Testing is still an important tool to manage COVID.
Ordering is simple and mobile-friendly.
Take these steps:
- Order now if eligible before program ends.
- Learn local testing options in your area.
- Use kits correctly.
- Monitor your health after testing.
Stick to trusted sources and official websites.
Stay ready, stay safe.
Disclaimer:
This article is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. For health decisions, please consult a qualified healthcare provider.