Time is running out for Americans to get their allotment of free COVID-19 tests from the government.
The program is set to be suspended Sept. 2 — or earlier, if supplies run out — because Congress has not provided additional funding to replenish the government’s stockpile, according to a message on the COVID test website.
Earlier this summer, the Biden administration said it planned to phase out the program, and shift the cost of COVID tests to health insurers. The Wall Street Journal reported earlier this month that the Department of Health and Human Services has scheduled a meeting for Tuesday to discuss the transition and the next steps to take.
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Every U.S. household is eligible for eight free rapid antigen tests per order, for a total of 16 free tests. The program started in January, offering four tests per household, then later expanded in March and May.
Anyone who has not used their allotment can still order them in the coming days by signing up online at https://special.usps.com/testkits, or by calling 1-800-232-0233. The tests are free and there are no shipping costs.
If you’re not sure if you’ve reached your allotment, you can fill out the online order form online; if you’re no longer eligible, a message will tell you that you’re reached the current limit.
People with health insurance can also get up to eight free tests per person per month, either free through their health plan or by reimbursement.