The distribution of free at-home COVID-19 tests has been a significant public health initiative in the United States, managed by federal agencies. This article details the status of the primary government-run mail-in test programme, alternative methods for obtaining tests, and considerations for UK consumers seeking analogous health resources. The information is based exclusively on the provided source material concerning US programmes.
The Federal Government's Free At-Home Test Distribution Programme
A major federal programme providing free at-home COVID-19 tests to US households has undergone recent changes. As of Monday, 10 March 2025, the programme is not currently accepting new orders. This suspension coincides with the five-year anniversary of the coronavirus pandemic. The programme, accessible via COVIDtests.gov, previously allowed every U.S. household to order four free rapid antigen tests, which were shipped via the U.S. Postal Service at no cost. Tests ordered before 20:00 EDT on Sunday, 9 March 2025, were scheduled for shipment.
This distribution effort was initiated in 2021. Since its inception, the programme has distributed over 1.8 billion free COVID-19 tests. More than 900 million of these tests were mailed directly to households, while an additional 900 million were distributed to community centres such as libraries, long-term care facilities, and food banks. The Biden administration revived the programme in September 2024 ahead of an expected winter wave, distributing four new rapid antigen tests capable of detecting all circulating variants. At that time, officials stated the national stockpile was sufficient to support the programme without inventory issues. The status of the remaining stockpile and future plans for the free testing programme are currently unclear.
Alternative Access Points for Free or Low-Cost COVID-19 Testing
While the federal mail-order programme is suspended, other avenues for obtaining COVID-19 tests exist, though they may involve costs. At-home COVID-19 tests are sold at pharmacies, grocery stores, and other retailers nationwide. Most rapid at-home testing kits cost between £12 and £24 out-of-pocket for a pack of two tests, though some brands may be more expensive. Insurers are no longer required to cover the cost of these tests.
For those seeking free testing, alternative options are available: * Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Health Centres: These centres provide free COVID-19 testing. A locator tool on the HRSA website allows individuals to find a centre near them. Users can select their preferred language for results, enter a location, and widen the search radius. Once a centre is identified, individuals must visit that centre's specific website for instructions on obtaining a free test. * Test to Treat Centres: This federally funded initiative provides accessible COVID-19 care, offering both testing and treatment for infections. A dedicated locator tool helps find eligible Test to Treat centres. The tool functions similarly to the HRSA locator, allowing users to search by location and radius. Results display the centre's address, available COVID-19 therapeutics, and any special instructions required for testing.
Important Considerations for Test Use and Availability
Consumers with existing at-home COVID-19 tests should check the expiration date on the box. Many tests have received extended expiration dates from the original date listed. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website provides information on the extended expiration status of specific test brands.
The federal free testing programme has been a significant expenditure for the U.S. government. Since 2020, billions of dollars have been invested in developing and purchasing COVID-19 tests and vaccines. The Biden administration has distributed 1.8 billion COVID-19 tests in total, with half delivered to households by mail.
Conclusion
The primary federal programme for ordering free at-home COVID-19 tests via COVIDtests.gov is currently suspended and not accepting new orders as of March 2025. While the programme has successfully distributed over 1.8 billion tests since 2021, its future is uncertain. Alternative access points, such as HRSA health centres and Test to Treat locations, remain available for those seeking free testing and potential treatment. For immediate needs, tests are available for purchase at retailers, though at a personal cost. UK consumers seeking health resources should refer to official NHS or UK government sources for information on local programmes.