Buzz
When the U.S. government announced in January that each household could claim four free tests, we highlighted that four tests may not be enough (for example, my household has five people). While that’s still the case, the offer has expanded: You can now place a second order for tests.
To place your (free) order, visit the website covidtests.gov. A notice on the site now indicates that “starting this week,” all households can request a second batch of free tests.
This means that if you’ve already received your initial batch, you can now order again. Additionally, if you missed the first round, you can now request two orders in total, amounting to eight tests.
This refers to eight (or four) individual tests, not test kits. Many over-the-counter at-home tests come in pairs. This is because while a positive result is fairly reliable, a negative result may mean you haven't accumulated enough virus in your nose or didn't collect enough of the sample. If you test negative, you're supposed to take the test again the following day to confirm.
When I ordered my household’s four tests as soon as the website launched, I received a box from Roche containing four tests in total. The government has reportedly sourced tests from various manufacturers, so you might receive a different brand this time than you did previously, or different from your neighbor. But, the promised tests did arrive.
Alternative ways to order
If you're unable to access the website, or if you'd like to assist a less tech-savvy loved one, you can also request the tests by calling 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489) between 8 a.m. and midnight ET every day. Assistance is available in 150 languages, including English and Spanish.
There’s also a dedicated line for individuals with disabilities. You can contact the Disability Information and Access Line at 888-677-1199 (Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET) or email [email protected]. For more information on ordering and using at-home tests, this CDC page provides all the necessary details.
