It’s 2023 and rapid Covid-19 tests remain a reliable tool for millions of Americans. Unfortunately, the availability of free tests seems to be winding down. The federal government can no longer be relied on to deliver an unlimited number of free tests to households across the country, forcing many families to choose between paying out of pocket for each test or worse, not testing at all.
Thankfully you aren’t entirely out of luck. Today, we’ll show you where and how to get your hands on free tests. We’ll also break down a few of the at-home test basics for those that remain unfamiliar. Don’t pay for your rapid tests. Instead, get them at no cost in 2023!
A Beginner’s Guide to Covid Test Kits
Covid test kits are over-the-counter tools designed to simplify the detection process. Every at-home test kit comes packaged with an instruction manual that shows you how to use the test and how to read the results. It is essential to follow the instructions precisely to ensure a reliable result.
At-home rapid tests are great at detecting the virus, and you can generally trust a positive test result. However, a negative result does not necessarily mean that you are in the clear. The FDA recommends following up a negative test with a repeat test approximately 48 hours after the first test.
Do They Expire?
Covid test kits rely on ingredients that degrade over time, decreasing their reliability to detect infection. How long they last depends on the manufacturer, but none of them are immune to expiry dates. All the more reason to read the labels every time.
You can’t just stock up on free ones or use your limited supply sparingly. Expiry dates also mean most Americans require a reliable source of affordable tests to protect them long term. Which is even more of a problem for those who take them on a regular basis.
The Cost of Covid Test Kits
Covid test kits can be surprisingly expensive for those left with no choice but to pay out of pocket for them. Paying as much as $15 per test isn’t out of the ordinary. Which is why there’s always a demand for free alternatives. Thankfully, there are lots of organizations and community groups distributing free tests to those that need them.
How To Get Free Covid Test Kits
Despite what you may have heard, free covid test kits can still be yours. It may not be as easy as it once was, but who are we to complain? Free is free, and most people will happily do a little leg work to avoid paying for a test themselves. To find free rapid tests near you, consider the following options.
State and Community Resources
Finding free rapid tests locally can be a matter of staying engaged with your local community organizers and state-level officials. Stay informed on local pop-ups and rapid test distribution sites and be ready to capitalize when they do occur.
Medicare
Original Medicare recipients receive full coverage for up to 8 over-the-counter rapid tests each calendar month, which should be more than enough for one person.
Health Insurance
Americans with health insurance likely receive similar coverage. Use your insurance to get up to 8 rapid antigen tests per person, per month. A lot of pharmacists even offer to submit your claim for you.
Federal Government
Even if you don’t have insurance, you can still get the federal government to send you 4 free at-home tests. The latest initiative is designed to help Americans withstand the Winter flu season and applies to every U.S. household.
Get Your Free Covid Test Kit Today!
By doing your research and leaning on all the resources you have available online and in your community, you should be able to supply yourself with enough at-home rapid test kits to keep you and your family safe.
You can obtain free tests through local state and community resources as they appear, Medicare, health insurance, and the federal government. So be sure to exhaust all of your free options before resorting to paying a premium for at-home rapid test kits.
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