Free COVID-19 Test Kits Available Again from the U.S. Government: How to Get Yours Today

In a continued effort to keep Americans safe and healthy, the U.S. government is once again providing free COVID-19 test kits for every household. As of today, you can request these free at-home tests online, and they will be shipped directly to you at no cost.

This initiative is part of the federal government’s broader strategy to combat the spread of COVID-19, especially as we enter flu season. Testing remains one of the most effective tools in limiting the spread of the virus, helping individuals quickly isolate and seek medical attention if they test positive. Here’s everything you need to know to take advantage of the program.

How to Order Your Free COVID-19 Test Kits

To make things as simple as possible, the government has set up a streamlined process for ordering test kits. Here’s how you can get your hands on one:

  1. Visit the official government website for free test kits: COVIDTests.gov.
  2. Fill out a quick form with your name and shipping address. No ID, health insurance, or payment is required.
  3. After submitting, you’ll receive a confirmation, and your tests will be shipped out via the U.S. Postal Service.

Each household is eligible to order four free test kits. Orders will ship free, starting September 30, 2024. Expiration Dates Extended – Tests may show “expired” dates on the box, but FDA has extended those dates (full list of extended expiration dates).

Why It’s Important to Keep Testing

While many aspects of life may seem “back to normal,” COVID-19 continues to evolve, with new variants emerging that could affect people differently. Regular testing is critical for early detection, especially if you experience symptoms like fever, sore throat, cough, or loss of taste and smell. Even if you feel fine, it’s a good idea to test if you’ve been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19 or after traveling.

Having a stock of home tests allows you to check yourself or loved ones without needing to visit a doctor or testing center, which can reduce the risk of further exposure. These tests are also a key resource for:

  • Preventing outbreaks in homes and workplaces.
  • Providing peace of mind before gatherings and travel.
  • Monitoring health for people at higher risk, such as those with preexisting conditions or the elderly.

What to Expect from the At-Home Tests

The tests provided are rapid antigen at-home tests, which are easy to use and produce quick results, usually within 30 minutes. Each kit comes with instructions, and you don’t need any special equipment to perform the test – just a clean surface and the items included in the box.

If you test positive, it’s important to follow CDC guidelines: isolate yourself from others, contact your healthcare provider, and inform any close contacts. Depending on your symptoms, medical professionals may recommend additional treatments or confirm the results with a PCR test.

Free Tests: An Essential Tool as We Move Forward

The U.S. government’s decision to reintroduce free test kits is part of a larger ongoing public health effort, especially as we approach colder months, when respiratory illnesses tend to spike.

With COVID-19 still circulating, tools like testing, vaccinations, and public health measures remain crucial in reducing transmission. The availability of free test kits makes it easier for everyone to participate in these efforts, helping to protect not only ourselves but our communities as well.

Final Thoughts

With free at-home COVID-19 tests now available, there’s no reason not to take advantage of this valuable resource. Whether you’re keeping them on hand for emergencies, testing after a potential exposure, or before a trip, these tests offer a simple, effective way to stay informed and safe. Remember, the fight against COVID-19 isn’t over, and testing is one of the best tools we have to keep it under control.

So, head over to COVIDTests.gov and order your free tests today!

How to Get Free COVID-19 Tests

The US government website set up for people in the US to be able to order free COVID-⁠19 tests was scheduled to launch on Wednesday, ‎January ‎19, ‎2022, but it is up one day early today as part of a “beta-phase” according to White House press secretary Jen Psaki. The official launch is expected to happen tomorrow around mid-morning. Tests are available for every residential address in the US.

According to the federal government’s COVID test website, the tests are rapid antigen at-home tests (not PCR) and can be taken anywhere. You get results within 30 minutes and you don’t have to drop it off at a lab. It works whether you have COVID-19 symptoms or not and it works whether or not you are up to date on your vaccines. The FAQ available on the COVID-⁠19 test site gives more information, including when you should use the tests.

To get 4 free at-home COVID-⁠19 Tests mailed to you:

  • Go to https://www.covidtests.gov/
  • Press the “Order Free At-Home Tests” Button – this will redirect you to the USPS website
  • Fill out Contact Information and Shipping Address and press the “Check Out Now” button
  • Review your order to make sure everything is correct and then press “Place My Order”

After placing order, you will be redirected to a page that says Thank You and gives you an order number. If you gave an email address, you’ll get an order confirmation and delivery updates. Since it is still in a beta-phase if you run into any problems you can check back tomorrow according to the COVID-⁠19 tests website.

Where to Get Free French Fries on National French Fry Day 2021

If you’ve never heard of National French Fry Day or National Fry Day or just Fry Day it is on July 13th and to celebrate the day some fast food restaurants are giving away free french fries. Most of the deals require you to download their app or sign up for their email newsletter. Check out the info below for details on each restaurant.

  • Arby’s

If you’re signed up to receive emails from Arby’s you can get a free order of large fries with any purchase when you show the cashier the email though July 18, 2021. You can sign up for Arby’s emails here.

  • Burger 21

Burger 21 is offering a free French Fry side when you use their Patty Perks app on July 13th, 2021. See full details here.

  • Carl’s Jr

You can get a coupon for free small fries and small beverage with the purchase of any Western Bacon Cheeseburger by signing up to receive news and coupons from them. This seems to be an ongoing deal. So if you missed out on National French Fry Day, you still might have a chance for free fries with this offer. See more details here.

  • Hardee’s

Since Carl’s Jr and Hardee’s are owned by the same company, Hardee’s has a deal similar to Carl’s Jr. You can get a coupon for free small fries and small beverage with the purchase of any Original Angus Burger by signing up to receive news and coupons from them. This also seems to be an ongoing deal. See more details here.

  • McDonald’s

McDonald’s renamed National French Fry Day to World Famous Fan Day to celebrate the launch of MyMcDonald’s Rewards. To get the free fries, you have to “download the McDonald’s app, opt-in to MyMcDonald’s Rewards and add the deal for medium fries to your cart. Valid 1x on 7/13/21 at participating McDonald’s. Mobile Order & Pay at Participating McDonald’s. McD App download and registration required.”

  • Wendy’s

Wendy’s is offering a free large order of fries with any purchase on the app. Apply the mobile offer to your mobile order. You can also scan in-restaurant or in the drive-thru.

  • White Castle

Use coupon in store to get free small french fries with any purchase. You can use the code FRYDAY to get the free small french fries with online orders. At participating Castles and valid 7/13/21 only.