Free COVID Tests Are Back. Here's How to Get Yours

What happened

The government is reopening its free at-home COVID-19 test scheme. From Sept. 25, every household will be able to apply for four rapid tests online. "These critical investments will strengthen our nation's production levels of domestic at-home COVID-19 rapid tests and help mitigate the spread of the virus," said Xavier Becerra, Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services.

So what

Given that at-home tests can cost around $12 each, getting four free tests for your household could mean almost $50 extra in your bank account. So much has changed since the height of the pandemic and our approach to the virus is very different. But that doesn't mean we can forget about it entirely.

While scientists hope vaccinations and immunity from previous infections will minimize the impact of further waves, there is an uptick in the number of COVID-19 hospitalizations and cases. With the holiday season approaching, at-home testing is one way to differentiate between a case of COVID-19 and a flu or cold. That can help you make informed decisions about socializing or seeing family. 

Now what

To apply for your free at-home tests, go to covid.gov/tests, starting next week. The tests are intended for use before the end of the year. The Department of Health says the free kits -- of which there will be 200 million up for grabs -- will detect the current variants. The news comes alongside a government announcement that it will invest $600 million into 12 domestic test manufacturers. 

Another way to save money on COVID-19 tests? If you have existing tests that are past their expiration date, don't throw them out just yet. Some will still be effective. The FDA has updated its guidelines and extended the dates on a number of self-testing kits. Check the FDA website for information on the shelf life of each brand.

At the height of the pandemic, there were various ways to get COVID-19 tests for free. For starters, the government required many health insurers to pay for up to eight at-home tests. The same went for people on Medicare. That stopped in May, when the health emergency reached its end. Some insurers have continued to provide free testing. It is worth contacting your insurer to find out what testing and vaccination provisions are covered. 

If you are enrolled in Medicaid, you can continue to get over-the-counter and laboratory COVID tests until Sept. 30, 2024. If you don't have health insurance, there are some free or low-cost testing options. Look for your nearest HRSA health center, Test to Treat site, or an ICATT location to find out more.

In addition to the latest round of free COVID-19 tests, the CDC says most Americans can get vaccinated for free. The FDA has just approved a number of new vaccines, which it says provide better protection against some of the current COVID-19 variants. If you want to get vaccinated, contact your insurance provider or local health center to find out how.