Free Government COVID-19 Tests to Expire Soon

The free COVID-19 tests recently rolled out by the federal government will expire soon, but there is an explanation for that.

Two weeks ago, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced that households across the country can get the tests (up to four per family) while supplies last.

However, some people may have noticed that the tests will expire soon. The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) explains why.

“Tests sent out through COVIDTests.gov will have at least two months before they expire and are intended for near-term use during the holiday season,” Zachary Dembner, an ASPR spokesperson, told USA TODAY.

“Many COVID-19 tests have extended expiration dates beyond what is printed on the box, and consumers should verify their test’s expiration on the FDA website,” he said.

The push for families to get the free tests comes as positive COVID-19 cases continue to rise, and family gatherings will become more frequent during the holiday season.

Dembner also adds that ASPR's goal is to give tests to everyone in the country.

"In addition to COVIDTests.gov, ASPR distributes over 5 million tests per week directly to underserved and uninsured populations – including long-term care facilities, food banks, and health centers," he said.

On Oct. 2, the United States Postal Service (USPS) said that more than 12 million COVID-19 tests were shipped and six million delivered by the government agency.

“The distribution of these at-home test kits is a vital public health initiative from the Department of Health and Human Services,” Postmaster General Louis DeJoy said in a statement. “We are proud to continue our partnership in ensuring that every household has access to the resources they need to stay safe and healthy.”

How long will the free COVID-19 tests be available?

According to the HHS, the free COVID-19 tests are available now through the end of the year. The agency started shipping the tests on Monday, Sept. 30.

Will the tests be available at participating pharmacies? If so, which ones?

Those who need at-home tests right away can still purchase them from pharmacies across the U.S. The HHS advises individuals to check with local retailers and pharmacies to see where at-home tests are for sale. Low-cost or no-cost tests may also be available to people who are uninsured. To find a COVID-19 testing site near you, contact a HRSA-funded health center or ICATT location to schedule with pharmacies.

How can I get free COVID-19 tests?

If you are interested in obtaining a free COVID-19 test you can visit COVIDTest.gov or special.usps.com/testkits to order them.

Do I have to show my identification or place of residence to get a COVID-19 test?

A form through the United States Postal Service requires those interested in obtaining the free tests to provide their names and shipping addresses. Emails are optional for individuals who want to receive shipping notifications.

Do you have to pick up the tests in person, or can they be mailed to you?

The at-home tests will be mailed to individuals' residences across the U.S. Shipping is free of cost.

COVID-19 tests will be more accessible

HHS said that the tests will be "more accessible" for people with disabilities that includes improving test technology for people who have difficulty using their hands and people who are blind or have low vision.

In addition, HHS plans to reach marginalized households across the United States.

"These efforts complement ASPR’s ongoing distribution of free COVID-19 tests to long-term care facilities, low-income senior housing, aging and disability networks, and other community organizations to support older adults and people with disabilities living in the community, uninsured individuals, and underserved communities," the HHS release said.

HHS also adds that "more than one billion over-the-counter tests have been provided to date through this community access program."

What if I test positive?

The tests will be able to detect the dominant COVID-19 variants now circulating, according to the CDC.

The at-home tests typically provide results within 30 minutes or less and can be administered to vaccinated and unvaccinated people. Many COVID-19 tests now have extended expiration dates.

Individuals who test positive should follow the latest CDC guidance to prevent the spread of the virus.

Though positive results are accurate, the HHS warns that negative results don't necessarily rule out a COVID-19 infection. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends two negative antigen tests for people with symptoms or three antigen tests for people without symptoms, each performed 48 hours apart.

Ahjané Forbes is a reporter on the National Trending Team at USA TODAY. Ahjané covers breaking news, car recalls, crime, health, lottery, and public policy stories. Email her at aforbes@gannett.com. Follow her on Instagram, Threads, and X (Twitter) @forbesfineest.

Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at elagatta@gannett.com.