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Have you claimed your first, second, or third set of free COVID tests from the U.S. government? If not, head over to covidtests.gov to request them now, as the program's funding is running out. The website now features a notice saying that the program will be halted on September 2, this Friday, “because Congress hasn’t allocated additional funding to replenish the national test supply.”
Here’s how to get your free COVID tests:
Complete the form on covidtests.gov with your name and address.
Click “check out.” There’s no charge, and your total will be $0; they won’t ask for credit card details or any payment. (Beware of websites that ask for shipping fees, as they are scams.)
If you haven't yet reached the three-order limit per household, you can place another order right away.
When you place an order for tests, you'll receive eight tests, typically sent in two packages, each containing four tests. (Initially, the program offered only four tests per order. It’s uncertain whether ordering three times now will result in a total of 24 tests, or if some orders will only contain four tests.)
A White House representative informed CNN that the program will end on Friday, regardless of the remaining tests in the stockpile, and any unused tests will be saved “for later distribution this year.” Should Congress provide more funding, covidtests.gov could resume at any time.
For those who are blind or have trouble using at-home COVID tests, this website allows you to request free Ellume tests, which provide spoken results through a smartphone app. You can also reach out by calling 888-677-1199 Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern), or email [email protected].
