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Order free COVID-19 tests from the government

Tests are expected to ship within 7-12 days of ordering

A COVID-19 test is pictured at NG Biotech, a start-up that makes an array of medical tests, including kits for use at home and by medical professionals to detect COVID-19 infections. (AP Photo/Jeremias Gonzalez) (Jeremias Gonzalez, Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Update 1/18/2022: The site to order tests is live and some users are already able to order tests ahead of Wednesday’s official launch.

Some users who live in apartment complexes and other properties that have multiple units reported having issues with putting in an order, according to a report by the Associated Press. A spokesperson for the postal service recommended users submit a service request on the USPS website or call 1-800-ASK-USPS. Click here to access the USPS service request website.

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Original Story

As the omicron variant of COVID-19 surges through the U.S. and with at-home testing kits in short supply, the government is stepping in to offer up to four free tests per household.

Starting Jan. 19, four free tests can be ordered through Covidtests.gov. There will also not be any shipping costs related to the COVID-19 tests.

“Testing is an important tool to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19,” the Biden administration said in a statement.

It is recommended that anyone who is experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 use an at-home test at least five days after coming in close contact with someone who has tested positive.

The Biden administration has purchased one billion at-home rapid tests to give out. Half of those will be available on the website starting Wednesday.

Tests are expected to ship within 7-12 days of ordering.

“To ensure equity and access for all Americans, the Administration will also launch a call line to help those unable to access the website to place orders, and work with national and local community-based organizations to support the nation’s hardest-hit and highest-risk communities in requesting tests,” according to a statement from the White House.

Private insurance companies are also required to cover the cost of at-home rapid tests, as of Jan. 15.

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