Frequently Asked Questions

Who can order tests as part of this program?

Tests are available for every residential address in the U.S., including U.S. Territories and overseas military and diplomatic addresses (APO/FPO/DPO).

How can I order tests?

Tests can be ordered online at Freshstartmedical.com/get-free-covid-tests-at-home/. Tests will start shipping the week of January 24.

To place an order, all you need is your name and residential address. No ID, credit card, or health insurance information is required. You may also share your email address to get updates on your order.

Is there a limit to how many tests I can order?

Yes. To promote broad access, the initial program will only allow # free individual tests per residential address.

What if I buy more than one test at a time?

Your plan is required to provide reimbursement for 8 tests per month for each individual on the plan, regardless of whether the tests are bought all at once or at separate times throughout the month.

Can Americans living outside of the U.S. request these free tests?

Tests are available for every residential address in the U.S., including U.S. Territories and overseas military and diplomatic addresses (APO/FPO/DPO).

Can I choose what type or brand of test I get?

All tests distributed as part of this program are FDA-authorized at-home rapid antigen tests. You will not be able to choose the brand you order as part of this program.

When will I get my tests and how will they be delivered?

These tests will be delivered in the mail through the U.S. Postal Service. Tests will typically ship within 7-12 days of ordering.

All orders within the continental United States will be sent through First Class Package Service. Shipments to Alaska, Hawaii, U.S. Territories, and overseas military and diplomatic addresses (APO/FPO/DPO) will be sent through Priority Mail.

Will I be able to track when my order status?

Yes. There is an option for you to provide an email address to receive email notifications with shipping updates.

Once your order is shipped, you will receive an email with an estimated delivery date and a tracking number. You can track the status of your delivery on USPS.com.

Can I pick up my tests somewhere or have them held at my local Post Office instead of getting them shipped to my home?

No. This program is designed to send free tests to your home through the mail.

Who do I contact if I ordered my tests but they have not been delivered?

To get help with a delivery issue, please contact USPS.

Will my tests come with instructions on how to use them?

Yes. Tests will have instructions on how to use them.

When should I use my tests?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you take an at-home test:

If you begin having COVID-⁠19 symptoms like fever, sore throat, runny nose, or loss of taste or smell, or
At least 5 days after you come into close contact with someone with COVID-⁠19, or
When you’re going to gather with a group of people, especially those who are at risk of severe disease or may not be up to date on their COVID-⁠19 vaccines.

For more on when to use at-home tests, see the latest CDC self-testing guidance.