COVID-19 tests now available for free from state and federal gov’t (Updated 1/21/22)
January 18, 2022
UPDATE: People can now order free at-home COVID-19 tests from both the state and federal governments.
Free tests from the federal government
Starting Jan. 15, every home in the U.S. is now eligible to order four (4) free home COVID-19 tests from the federal government. Orders will usually ship in 7-12 days. All you have to do is provide your name and address.
Free tests from Washington state
Washington’s Department of Health (DOH) now offers free at-home COVID-19 tests via the sayyescovidhometest.org website as well. According to a DOH news release, people will be able to order up to 5 free tests per household. They will limit supply at first then restock as supply into the state increases.
Other free testing resources
CovidTests.gov provides information on how to find free tests in stores, where to locate free antigen and PCR testing sites and how to get reimbursed by your insurance for up to eight at-home tests per month for every person on your plan.
State hotline for positive COVID-19 test results
Washington state hosts a COVID-19 hotline for people who test positive via the home test. Hotline personnel will help determine next steps based on zip code, record and report results and guide callers through any questions they may have. You can call the state hotline, 1-800-525-0127, Monday from 6 AM to 10 PM, and Tuesday through Sunday (including observed holidays) from 6 AM to 6 PM.
WA Notify provides exposure notice and take reports of positive COVID-19 tests
DOH encourages all smartphone users to download or enable WA Notify. It’s not just for exposure notifications, but also for plugging in positive results.
If you’re sick, stay home
DOH reminds everyone that Washington is experiencing a surge of cases across the state, so if you have symptoms, you should assume you have COVID-19 even if you don’t have a test to confirm it. And always stay home if you’re sick.