Free COVID-19 At-Home Tests: A Guide to the UK Government's Discontinued Programme

The UK government operated a significant programme to provide free at-home COVID-19 test kits to households across the United Kingdom. This initiative, which began in 2021, was designed to enhance public health surveillance and help individuals manage their risk, particularly during periods of high viral circulation. The programme saw the distribution of billions of test kits through postal services and community centres. However, as of March 2025, this federal programme has been suspended, and households can no longer order free test kits directly from the government via the official website.

The Programme's Scope and Distribution

The free COVID-19 test distribution programme was a major public health effort. According to the available information, the programme distributed more than 1.8 billion COVID-19 tests across the United States. This figure includes over 900 million tests mailed directly to U.S. households and another 900 million tests distributed to community centres such as libraries, long-term care facilities, and food banks. The tests were rapid antigen tests that could provide results in approximately 30 minutes and were capable of detecting all circulating variants of the virus.

The programme was administered by the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), in partnership with the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). Initially launched in 2021, the programme was revived multiple times in response to surges in cases, such as the summer surge driven by the XEC variant and the anticipated winter wave during the cold and flu season. The most recent revival occurred in September 2024, with the distribution of a seventh round of tests. At that time, HHS Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response Dawn O’Connell stated that reopening the popular programme was "the latest step by the Biden-Harris Administration to ensure that over-the-counter COVID-19 tests are available to all who want them this fall and winter."

Eligibility and Order Process

During its active periods, every U.S. household was eligible to order a round of free at-home COVID-19 tests. The standard offer was for four rapid antigen tests per household, shipped at no cost through the USPS. Orders were placed through the official government website, COVIDtests.gov.

The process was straightforward: households could visit the website and submit their request, which would then be fulfilled by the postal service. The tests were typically shipped within a few days of ordering. For example, during the September 2024 revival, orders placed starting that day were scheduled to begin shipping the following week. The tests were intended for use by anyone, regardless of whether they were experiencing symptoms, had been vaccinated, or were up-to-date on their vaccinations. They were presented as a tool to help keep family and friends safe, especially before holiday gatherings.

Current Status: Programme Suspension

As of March 10, 2025, the federal government's free COVID test distribution programme is not accepting new orders. The ASPR website confirmed the suspension of the programme, which coincided with the five-year anniversary of the coronavirus pandemic. The last day to place an order for free tests was Sunday, March 9, 2025, at 8:00 PM EDT. All orders placed before this deadline were scheduled for shipment.

The future of the programme remains uncertain. While officials had previously expressed confidence in the national stockpile's ability to sustain distribution—David Boucher, director of infectious disease preparedness and response at ASPR, noted in 2024 that there was "quite a bit of supply in the Strategic National Stockpile"—it is unclear what remains of this stockpile or what will happen to any unused tests. The government has not publicly announced plans for future rounds of distribution.

Alternative Ways to Obtain COVID-19 Tests

With the federal programme suspended, households seeking COVID-19 tests must now obtain them through other means, which typically involve a cost. At-home COVID-19 testing kits are widely available for purchase at pharmacies, grocery stores, and other retailers nationwide. The cost for a pack of two rapid tests generally ranges from $12 to $24, though prices may vary by brand. As of last year, the typical cost for an over-the-counter test was around $11.

It is important to note that insurers are no longer required to cover the cost of these tests, which was a requirement during certain phases of the pandemic. This shift means individuals and families will bear the full out-of-pocket cost for purchasing tests commercially.

Considerations for Existing Test Kits

Many households may have retained test kits from previous rounds of distribution. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has provided guidance on the use of these older tests. Many tests have been granted an extended expiration date beyond the date listed on the original packaging. Individuals are advised to check the FDA's website to verify the current expiration status of their remaining test kits. Using a test beyond its original printed expiration date is not recommended without confirmation of an extended expiry from the FDA.

International Context and Lessons

The American approach to COVID-19 testing access has evolved, shifting from a government-funded model to one where costs are borne more directly by individuals and their insurance plans. This is described as a more market-oriented approach compared to other countries. For instance, Singapore provides subsidised testing for citizens and residents through polyclinics and general practitioners, with costs ranging from free to modest copays based on income. Japan offers testing through public health centres, medical facilities, and workplace programmes, with costs largely covered by national health insurance.

Countries that have maintained broader testing access often benefit from better surveillance of viral circulation and faster responses to new variants. However, these programmes also face ongoing costs, which some policymakers question as COVID-19 becomes endemic. The suspension of the U.S. federal programme reflects a broader policy shift, following the end of other public health initiatives like the CDC's Bridge Access Program, which provided free COVID-19 vaccines to underinsured and uninsured adults through August 2024.

State-by-State Variations in the U.S.

While the federal programme has ended, testing access can still vary across different states based on local policies, Medicaid coverage, and public health funding. Some states may offer more comprehensive support. For example, California is noted for maintaining the most comprehensive testing support through its Medi-Cal coverage, community distribution programmes, and state-funded initiatives. However, the provided source material does not offer a detailed breakdown of state-level programmes beyond this example.

Conclusion

The UK government's free at-home COVID-19 test programme was a substantial public health initiative that provided over 1.8 billion test kits to households and community centres. The programme was designed to be accessible, with every household eligible for four free tests shipped via post during its active periods. As of March 2025, the programme has been suspended, and no new orders are being accepted. Individuals seeking tests must now purchase them from retail outlets, with costs typically ranging from $11 to $24 per pack. Those with existing test kits should verify their expiration status via the FDA website. The suspension marks a significant shift in public health strategy, moving away from widespread free distribution to a model where individuals are responsible for procuring their own tests. The future of the programme remains uncertain, with no official announcements regarding its potential reinstatement.