Now Americans who don’t have easy access to the internet can order free at-home COVID-19 tests over the phone.
The Biden administration on Friday launched a hotline: 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489). It will operate from 8 am to midnight Eastern time. Callers can place orders in multiple languages, including English, Spanish and Chinese.
The announcement comes days after the government launched its online test ordering site: covidtests.gov, which links to a short U.S. Postal Service form. The online form is still the fastest way to order the tests, with the phone line intended for people who have difficulty navigating the internet or lack access.
The rules for ordering tests by phone are the same as for online. Each household may order a set of four free at-home tests, which will be shipped to them beginning in late January.
While the limit may leave larger households scrambling for tests, insurance providers are now required to reimburse members for up to eight at-home tests per month. Tests have been hard to come by, but supplies should increase in the coming weeks at retail pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens.
Some counties, including Santa Clara, are also offering free at-home tests.
