In a move aimed at enhancing COVID-19 testing accessibility, the federal government has made it possible for every household in the United States to order additional free rapid COVID-19 test kits. Notably, households that had previously ordered tests during the fall season can now request up to four more rapid antigen test kits. Meanwhile, households that had not placed any orders earlier are eligible to make two separate orders, thus allowing them to obtain a total of eight test kits.
To make the process even more convenient, the orders, along with the shipping, are completely free of charge. The United States Postal Service has been designated as the channel for placing these orders. To order your free COVID-19 test kits, simply visit special.usps.com/testkits. If you require any assistance while placing your order, feel free to call 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489).
It is important to note that the shipping of these test kits will commence from the week of November 27, granting households ample time to prepare for their arrival. Additionally, individuals are urged to not disregard expired test kits without verifying their usability, as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has extended the expiration window for certain kits. By visiting www.fda.gov/medical-devices/coronavirus-covid-19-and-medical-devices/home-otc-covid-19-diagnostic-tests#list, you can determine if your test kit is still viable before disposing of it.
This initiative showcases the government’s commitment to fostering widespread testing and ensuring the wellbeing of communities across the nation. By equipping households with the necessary resources, individuals can proactively monitor their COVID-19 status, thus aiding in the collective effort to curb the spread of the virus.
FAQ
Q: How many additional test kits can households order?
A: Households that previously ordered tests this fall can request up to four additional rapid antigen test kits, while those who haven’t ordered any can place two orders, reaching a total of eight tests.
Q: How much do the test kits cost?
A: The test kits, including shipping, are absolutely free of charge.
Q: How can I order the free COVID-19 test kits?
A: To order the kits, visit special.usps.com/testkits. Alternatively, if you require assistance, you can call 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489).
Q: What should I do with expired test kits?
A: Before discarding expired test kits, it is essential to check if their usability has been extended by visiting www.fda.gov/medical-devices/coronavirus-covid-19-and-medical-devices/home-otc-covid-19-diagnostic-tests#list.