If you receive my free daily travel tip newsletter, then you were able to get a jump on ordering the first round of free U.S. government tests back in January. Then in March, they offered a second round. Well now, with COVID-19 cases rising again, the U.S. government is offering a fourth round of free tests. “Every U.S. household is eligible to order 4 free at-home COVID-19 tests.” RELATED: Why You Should Add These 8 Items to Your Toiletry Bag When You Travel
Just like the previous times, it takes just 30 seconds to order them. Just input your name and shipping address and that’s it. The website is COVIDTests.gov, and each residential address is eligible for four tests. According to WhiteHouse.gov: “Tests will usually ship within 7-12 days of ordering.”
My email confirmation came in immediately from USPS and stated: “Your package of COVID-19 tests will ship starting the week of December 19, 2022. Once your package ships, you’ll receive a tracking number and updates on the expected delivery date.”
Unfortunately, these tests can’t be used for international travel but these free tests provided by the government are still great for travelers as they can tell you if you’re COVID-19 positive or not, which can save you a lot of money, time and hassle.
For example, one of my friends here in California was going to a two-day conference in NYC. He didn’t take a test before leaving and when he arrived, the conference organizers had everyone tested. He tested positive so his two-day trip turned into a 10-day one as his company required him to quarantine in his hotel room. Fortunately, his company paid for it but if you don’t have a generous employer, then consider getting travel insurance as well and make sure the plan covers COVID.
White House COVID-19 Response Coordinator Dr. Ashish Jha says Biden administration is relaunching https://t.co/e0VFBdY0Em, the website for ordering free COVID-19 rapid tests, “for a limited time this winter.” https://t.co/W12MB3lflZ pic.twitter.com/e3zGJsxogr
— ABC News (@ABC) December 15, 2022
I hadn’t heard, so thanks for the info. Thanks to your update, our family’s order is on the way. BTW, really enjoy watching you and Leo on the TWIT TV weekend segments!