Free covid tests by mail 2023
As of 2023, the US government is still providing free COVID-19 tests by mail to eligible individuals. Here are the details:
Who is eligible:
- Anyone who is at high risk of getting seriously ill from COVID-19, such as:
- Older adults (65+)
- People with certain underlying health conditions (e.g., diabetes, heart disease, lung disease)
- People with weakened immune systems (e.g., due to cancer treatment, organ transplant)
- People who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- People who live in shared living spaces (e.g., nursing homes, group homes)
- Anyone who is experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, such as:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Runny nose or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Diarrhea
- Nausea or vomiting
How to get a free COVID-19 test by mail:
- Visit the COVID-19 Test Request website (www.covidtests.gov) and fill out the online request form.
- Enter your name, date of birth, and mailing address.
- Select the reason for requesting a test (e.g., high-risk individual, experiencing symptoms).
- Review and agree to the terms and conditions.
- Submit the request.
What to expect:
- Once your request is processed, you will receive a confirmation email with a tracking number.
- The test kit will be shipped to you via USPS First Class Mail within 7-10 business days.
- The test kit will contain:
- 4 rapid antigen tests
- Instructions for use
- A pre-paid return envelope for sending back the test results
- Follow the instructions to perform the test and send back the results.
Important notes:
- The free COVID-19 test program is subject to change or discontinuation at any time.
- The tests are intended for personal use only and should not be shared with others.
- If you have any questions or concerns about the test or the program, you can contact the COVID-19 Test Request website or the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) at www.hhs.gov.
Remember to always follow proper hygiene and safety protocols when handling the test kit and performing the test.