Getting free at-home COVID-19 tests is supposed to become easier starting this week.Health insurers are now covering the cost, and the federal government has launched its website for free tests.Federal governmentThe federal government's test website, COVIDtests.gov, is now live and began accepting orders Tuesday, one day ahead of schedule. The Biden administration is using the website to distribute half a billion promised tests at no cost.You can get four tests per household. They are expected to be mailed out seven to 12 days after your order.There will also be a helpline to call and order tests.Health insurersPrivate health insurers are being ordered to pay for up to eight tests per person, per month.You don't need a doctor's order, but the tests must be approved by the Food and Drug Administration.Check with your provider to see what its preferred retailers are.Bring your insurance card, and you should be able to avoid any upfront costs.If you get a test at a location not on the preferred list, you will likely have to submit a receipt to your insurer for a maximum reimbursement of up to $12 per test.MedicareIf you're on Medicare, it doesn't pay for over-the-counter COVID-19 tests.Medicare patients can pick up free at-home tests from community health centers and Medicare-certified health clinics.If you're in a Medicare Advantage Plan, check with the plan to see if it will pay for these tests. Beware of fake testsThe Federal Trade Commission says there are fake tests popping up online.If you aren't using one of the free options, be careful about going to a site you don't know.Also, be sure to buy FDA-approved tests.