Although Covid-19 cases are starting to plateau, some individuals may still be looking for where to buy rapid Covid tests online. These at-home Covid tests offer fast results and are more convenient than traveling to a point-of-care test center. The Biden administration has made it easy for Americans to get free at-home Covid-19 test kits. (Check out our coverage on how to get a free at-home Covid-19 test kit). Combined with vaccines and face masks, they can help reduce the spread of the contagious Omicron variant, according to the CDC.
Whether you're heading back to school, the office, or getting together with family, we've created a guide on where to get rapid Covid tests online. In most cases, the kits can be purchased at your local pharmacy or big-box retail stores. However, stock may vary based on your location. (Also, make sure to check out what we know so far about the symptoms of the Omicron variant).
Where to buy rapid Covid tests
- Amazon: iHealth, DxTerrity, Amazon, and more
- CVS: PCR/Rapid antigen tests available from Pixel, QuickVue, Abbot
- Kroger: BinaxNow and Kroger kit
- Sam's Club: On-Go and BinaxNow
- Target: EverlyWell and ellume
- Walgreens: BinaxNow and QuickVue
- Walmart: Simplicity, DxTerrity, BinaxNow, QuickVue, more
Where to get rapid Covid tests
How much do at-home Covid-19 tests cost?
Americans with private insurance can now ask their insurance provider for reimbursement for any rapid at-home Covid-19 tests purchased on or after January 15, 2022. Individuals will likely have to log onto their insurance provider's website to file a claim. (The process may be different based on your insurance).
White House officials announced that you'll be able to buy up to eight tests/kits a month per person covered by the insurance policy. Insurance providers will cover any over-the-counter Covid-19 test that has received emergency use authorization (EUA) by the FDA. (You can find a full list of covered tests here).
How much do Covid-19 tests cost without insurance?
If you're not insured — or if you're covered by Medicare — the Biden administration has launched a website (https://www.covidtests.gov) where you can now request free at-home Covid-19 tests delivered to your home. (Find out how to get a free at-home Covid-19 test kit).
U.S. health officials say they will distribute about 500 million rapid Covid-19 tests free to anyone who request them.
Additionally, retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Kroger will sell at-home tests at-cost for the next few months. Community heath centers and food banks across the country are also expected to receive at-home tests, which they'll distribute for free to communities in need.
It's also worth noting that some states — such as Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New Jersey — are partnering with select laboratories to offer their own free at-home Covid tests. New Jersey, for instance, is teaming up with Vault Medical Services to offer free at-home Covid tests for NJ residents. The tests will arrive at your home with free expedited shipping and you'll be able to get your results in as fast as 48 hours. More states will like offer rapid Covid tests in the days to come.
How accurate are rapid Covid tests?
Some rapid Covid tests claim to be around 85% accurate at detecting traces of the virus. However, real-word studies posted by the CDC have shown their accuracy to be even lower. Meanwhile, other studies have shown that results could be more accurate for symptomatic individuals versus those who are asymptomatic. Likewise, the tests are more sensitive during the first week of symptoms.
How long does it take to get Covid test results?
Most at-home Covid-19 tests require the collection of a nasal specimen or saliva specimen. While many tests can offer results in minutes, others may require that you mail back your specimen to a laboratory. (The FDA has a list of at-home tests it authorized for emergency use).
While it's a good idea to have tests stored at home should you need them, it's also important to remember some tests expire. The CDC has a hub where it offers tips on how to perform a self-test, collect a specimen, and what to do if your test is positive.
