How to Get Reimbursed for At-Home COVID Tests: A Guide for Privately Insured Americans

While the government's program delivers four free rapid at-home COVID test kits per household monthly, many families need more. If you have private insurance through an employer or group plan, you can get reimbursed for—or pick up for free from approved retailers—up to eight FDA-cleared at-home tests per person per month.

Announced in January, these federal rules require private insurers to cover such tests without a doctor's note. (For additional kits, coverage applies if ordered by a provider.) The policy took effect January 15.

How to access it depends on your insurer.

Log into your health plan's website for reimbursement details. I've reviewed about six major insurers' sites, and most now provide online claim forms where you submit proof of purchase. In time, expect direct pickup at pharmacies and approved stores, though rollout is ongoing.

Key tips to know:

• Keep your receipt as proof of purchase for claims.
• Check your insurer's list of approved tests and retailers before buying.
• You can buy FDA-approved kits outside approved networks; insurers must reimburse at $12 per test.
• For kits ordered online before January 15 but delivered after, submit with proof—many insurers are covering these.
• Coverage is for eight tests per person, not kits. Multi-test kits count accordingly.

Medicare, Medicaid, and uninsured individuals have fewer options. Government kits cover four per household monthly upon signup, but that's limited for larger families or frequent testing. CMS notes state Medicaid and CHIP programs must cover FDA-authorized tests, though details vary—contact your local office. HRSA-supported clinics and Medicare sites also distribute kits; check locally.

Visit the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services site for reimbursement details.

Updated January 20 at 11:30 a.m. ET: Clarified test kit availability for Medicaid and CHIP participants.