4 Best Deficiency Tests of 2024 And What Our Testers Have to Say

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We tested the best vitamin deficiency tests from LetsGetChecked, Everlywell, and LabCorp, and our testers found them easy to use and informative. Learn more about the best vitamin deficiency tests here.
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A quick look at the best nutrient and vitamin deficiency tests
Best overall: LetsGetChecked Micronutrient Test | Skip to review
LetsGetChecked Micronutrient Test
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Best for fatigue: LetsGetChecked Essential Vitamin Test | Skip to review
LetsGetChecked Essential Vitamin Test
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Best lab-visit test: Labcorp Vitamin Deficiency Test | Skip to review
Labcorp Vitamin Deficiency Test
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Best for vitamin D: Everlywell At-Home Vitamin D Test | Skip to review
Everlywell At-Home Vitamin D Test
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Best nutrient and vitamin deficiency tests
Medical News Today has tested some of the products below. Reviewers may have received some products from the manufacturers for free, which does not influence their review. All opinions are the reviewers’ own.
LetsGetChecked Micronutrient Test

Collection method: finger prick
Results in: 2 to 5 days
Tests for: vitamins D, E, and B12, copper, and selenium
Accepts insurance: FSA/HSA only, offers itemized receipt for reimbursement
Follow-up guidance: free nurse assistance to discuss positive results
Use code “HEALTHLINE25″ for 25% off.
$179.00 AT LETSGETCHECKED
*Price may vary.
The LetsGetChecked micronutrient test is a finger-prick test that a person can carry out at home.
The test can check for deficiencies in a wide range of vitamins and minerals, including:
copper
copper
vitamin D
vitamin D
vitamin B12
vitamin B12
selenium
selenium
vitamin E
vitamin E
When a person gets their test kit, they must register it online, follow instructions to collect a sample, and return it for testing. Once the lab receives the test, LetsGetChecked states a person can expect to receive their results within a few days.
LetsGetChecked states it uses Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) certified labs to test samples. The company offers follow-up support if necessary.
Learn more about LetsGetChecked.
about LetsGetChecked
“I took this test to better understand my deficiencies of key vitamins and minerals to help inform my diet.”
If you are eager to get deeper insights into vitamin B12, E, copper and more, this is a great test to understand where you may be deficient. It is an easy experience, and LetsGetChecked does a great job of communicating along the way.”
It took 45 minutes to complete this test. I took my time to ensure I had everything laid out and followed the directions to get the best test results possible. It took around 25 minutes to fill the test tube with my blood sample.”
“I have used other LetsGetChecked tests before, and I think there could be more education and support regarding your results. Each section shares the levels and then has a “results explained” section, which shares a small blurb. I would love to learn more about that reading, what influences it and even if normal, how to maintain the right vitamin levels.”
— Nick Trull, Healthline Director of Business Development
                   
“I took this test to better understand my deficiencies of key vitamins and minerals to help inform my diet.”
If you are eager to get deeper insights into vitamin B12, E, copper and more, this is a great test to understand where you may be deficient. It is an easy experience, and LetsGetChecked does a great job of communicating along the way.”
It took 45 minutes to complete this test. I took my time to ensure I had everything laid out and followed the directions to get the best test results possible. It took around 25 minutes to fill the test tube with my blood sample.”
“I have used other LetsGetChecked tests before, and I think there could be more education and support regarding your results. Each section shares the levels and then has a “results explained” section, which shares a small blurb. I would love to learn more about that reading, what influences it and even if normal, how to maintain the right vitamin levels.”
— Nick Trull, Healthline Director of Business Development
                   
fast turnaround time
tests for a wide range of vitamins and minerals
kits are easy to use
some people may not like doing a finger-prick test
test is more expensive
some customers report they received kits close to their expiration dates
others found it hard to get their results
fast turnaround time
tests for a wide range of vitamins and minerals
kits are easy to use
some people may not like doing a finger-prick test
test is more expensive
some customers report they received kits close to their expiration dates
others found it hard to get their results
Returns: no returns or refunds
Shipping: free shipping
Returns: no returns or refunds
Shipping: free shipping
LetsGetChecked Essential Vitamin Test

Collection method: finger prick
Results in: 2 to 5 days
Tests for: vitamin B12, vitamin D, and vitamin E
Accepts insurance: FSA/HSA only, offers itemized receipt for reimbursement
Follow-up guidance: free nurse assistance to discuss positive results
Use code “HEALTHLINE25″ for 25% off
$109.00 AT LETSGETCHECKED
*Price may vary.
LetsGetChecked also offers a less extensive test for vitamin deficiencies with its Essential Vitamin Test. The test checks the blood for deficiencies in three important vitamins, including:
vitamin D
vitamin B12
vitamin E
Deficiencies in vitamin D and B12 can cause fatigue, so they may be important vitamins to test if a person is experiencing fatigue.
For instance, a 2019 study found a link between low vitamin D and fatigue in older adults. Additionally, an an older 2016 study concluded that supplementing vitamin D reduced fatigue in otherwise healthy people with a vitamin D deficiency.
2019 study
older 2016 study
Plus, the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) states that a vitamin B12 deficiency can cause extreme fatigue.
National Health Service (NHS)
Once a person receives the test, they must register it on the LetsGetChecked website and follow the instructions.
The home test involves a finger-prick blood sample collection that an individual will send to a lab the same day.
Upon receipt, the company’s team of doctors will review the test, and the lab will send the results to the person within 2 to 5 days.
According to the company, it tests samples in a CLIA certified lab. Its clinical team can also offer follow-up support if needed.
Use code “MEDICALNEWS30” for 30% off.
“I would recommend this vitamin test to MNT readers. It’s an easily accessible way to access tests that allow you to gain insight into your health. The ordering and testing process is very easy and relatively pain-free, and results come quickly.”
“The results were easy to understand and showed my vitamin levels in a visual way, which is helpful for people who may not have read blood test results before.”
— Lois Zoppi, MNT editor
                   
“I would recommend this vitamin test to MNT readers. It’s an easily accessible way to access tests that allow you to gain insight into your health. The ordering and testing process is very easy and relatively pain-free, and results come quickly.”
“The results were easy to understand and showed my vitamin levels in a visual way, which is helpful for people who may not have read blood test results before.”
— Lois Zoppi, MNT editor
                   
our tester found the test easy to use
labs can return results very fast
tests for deficiencies in some vitamins that may relate to fatigue
follow-up support available
finger-prick test will not suit everyone
test is more expensive
some customers found it difficult to get their results
testing range is smaller than other brands
our tester found the test easy to use
labs can return results very fast
tests for deficiencies in some vitamins that may relate to fatigue
follow-up support available
finger-prick test will not suit everyone
test is more expensive
some customers found it difficult to get their results
testing range is smaller than other brands
Returns: no returns or refunds
Shipping: free shipping
Returns: no returns or refunds
Shipping: free shipping
Labcorp Vitamin Deficiency Test

Collection method: venous blood draw
Results in: 1 to 2 days
Tests for: vitamin B12, folate, and vitamin D
Accepts insurance: HSA/FSA
Follow-up guidance: free access to physician services from PWNHealth
$169.00 AT LABCORP
*Price may vary.
If a person would prefer to have their test in person, they can visit a Labcorp testing center. There, a healthcare professional will collect the required blood sample.
This may suit people who want to avoid taking a blood sample themselves.
This test checks for three vitamins, including:
vitamin B12
folate
folate
vitamin D
A person can access their results via an online portal, and the company says a person’s results can be ready one day after the lab receives their sample. Labcorp will phone or email if results require immediate attention to discuss this with the customer. People must follow up with their own preferred healthcare professional for guidance.
Labcorp states that every one of its laboratories has a CLIA certificate.
“I tried this test to learn some of the key vitamins I might be deficient in. 
“You had to register for an account before you could make any purchase, but the actual sign-up was fairly easy. Once you registered, you could make a purchase, and then it would send you an automatic email to make an appointment. All emails were really helpful in getting started and making next steps.
“You don’t receive an at-home kit for the vitamin deficiency kit. Instead, you make an appointment with a Labcorp lab and do everything there. This was super straightforward and didn’t take long at all. The whole purchase was simple, and right after purchasing, it takes you to the link where you can make an appointment.
“I had several labs within a 15-mile radius, and there were a ton of time slots available. Once I was there, I don’t think I spent more than 10 minutes at the lab in total, from sign-in to blood draw. Plus, my results came the next day! The only downside I think is that it only tests for 3 vitamin deficiencies, and I could see some people needing a test that also checks your iron levels, for instance.
“If you don’t have insurance or are looking for really quick results, I think the vitamin deficiency test could be worth it, especially if you believe you might be low in vitamin D, as many people are. Supplementing with the vitamins this tests for can often be easy, but for any severe deficiencies, I would still reach out to a doctor.
“I think as a whole it felt like a pretty reputable and trustworthy company. I don’t have a lot of familiarity with other similar brands, so I can’t compare there. The whole process was very simple and easy, and I felt safe sharing my information.”
— Jamie Elmer, Healthline Copy Editor and Copy Edit Project Manager
“I tried this test to learn some of the key vitamins I might be deficient in. 
“You had to register for an account before you could make any purchase, but the actual sign-up was fairly easy. Once you registered, you could make a purchase, and then it would send you an automatic email to make an appointment. All emails were really helpful in getting started and making next steps.
“You don’t receive an at-home kit for the vitamin deficiency kit. Instead, you make an appointment with a Labcorp lab and do everything there. This was super straightforward and didn’t take long at all. The whole purchase was simple, and right after purchasing, it takes you to the link where you can make an appointment.
“I had several labs within a 15-mile radius, and there were a ton of time slots available. Once I was there, I don’t think I spent more than 10 minutes at the lab in total, from sign-in to blood draw. Plus, my results came the next day! The only downside I think is that it only tests for 3 vitamin deficiencies, and I could see some people needing a test that also checks your iron levels, for instance.
“If you don’t have insurance or are looking for really quick results, I think the vitamin deficiency test could be worth it, especially if you believe you might be low in vitamin D, as many people are. Supplementing with the vitamins this tests for can often be easy, but for any severe deficiencies, I would still reach out to a doctor.
“I think as a whole it felt like a pretty reputable and trustworthy company. I don’t have a lot of familiarity with other similar brands, so I can’t compare there. The whole process was very simple and easy, and I felt safe sharing my information.”
— Jamie Elmer, Healthline Copy Editor and Copy Edit Project Manager
suitable for people who do not want to take a sample themselves
positive reviews state service is efficient at testing sites
checks for three vitamins
customers report good customer care at testing sites
visiting a lab may not be convenient for everyone
test is more expensive
testing range is smaller than other company’s tests
suitable for people who do not want to take a sample themselves
positive reviews state service is efficient at testing sites
checks for three vitamins
customers report good customer care at testing sites
visiting a lab may not be convenient for everyone
test is more expensive
testing range is smaller than other company’s tests
Returns: no returns or refunds
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout
Returns: no returns or refunds
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout
Everlywell At-Home Vitamin D Test

Collection method: finger prick
Results in: 5 to 7 days
Tests for: vitamin D deficiency
Accepts insurance: HSA/FSA only
Follow-up guidance: a recorded educational session
Use code “HEALTHLINE25” for 25% off.
$49.00 AT EVERLYWELL
*Price may vary.
Everlywell offers a test that looks at a person’s vitamin D levels and measures c-reactive protein (CRP), called hs-CRP. The liver makes CRP when there is inflammation in the body.
inflammation
This finger-prick test allows a person to easily collect their sample and send it to a CLIA certified lab for testing. Independent, board certified doctors will review the results and explain them in easy-to-understand terms. The company then sends the results to a person’s online account, which they access via a secure login.
It offers follow-up advice for some of its tests but not all. Everlywell encourages individuals to discuss their results with a healthcare professional.
The test costs around $49, but if a person becomes an Everlywell member, the price lowers. The company accepts flexible spending account (FSA) and health savings account (HSA) payments.
Learn more about Everlywell.
about Everlywell
“I found out a few months ago that I had a severe vitamin D deficiency, so I started taking daily vitamin D supplements. I was curious if these were working and if I was taking a high enough dose, but I didn’t want to go through a whole doctor’s appointment and bloodwork test.”
“It was super easy to create an account and register my kit [with Everlywell]. Everlywell’s app is extremely user-friendly, and they provide QR codes and step-by-step instructions for how to register your kit. It took me less than a minute to register the kit.”
“For this test, I did have to prick my finger. The process went a lot smoother than I had expected. The kit came with several tips on how to make it easier, like putting your finger against a hard surface so that you don’t have to push as hard, as well as running your hands under warm water and moving them around to get the blood to flow faster. It was a very quick process and took me longer to prep my finger than it did to collect the sample. The lancet tool they provide was very easy to use and not scary, as it was easy to hold and didn’t show the needle at any point in the process.”
“I would definitely recommend this product to our readers. Although I hate getting my finger pricked at the doctor, the Everlywell test kit made it really easy and quick to do at home by myself. I loved using the app and found the entire process of at-home testing to be very clear and quick. It was nice that I got to do the test in the comfort of my own home, on my own time.”
“I had a really positive experience with Everlywell. I have used several of their at home tests and have never had any issues. I really like how easy it is to use their app, both to learn how to collect the sample and to use it for receiving results. I never like having to log into a bunch of portals to get my lab results from the doctor, which are then sometimes confusing to interpret. With Everlywell, I got a notification when my results were ready, and simply clicked it and immediately had an understandable read on my vitamin D levels.”
“This at-home test is a good fit for anyone who wants to skip a doctor’s visit or long lab-work collections.”
— Heather Riesebeck, Healthline Associate
                   
“I found out a few months ago that I had a severe vitamin D deficiency, so I started taking daily vitamin D supplements. I was curious if these were working and if I was taking a high enough dose, but I didn’t want to go through a whole doctor’s appointment and bloodwork test.”
“It was super easy to create an account and register my kit [with Everlywell]. Everlywell’s app is extremely user-friendly, and they provide QR codes and step-by-step instructions for how to register your kit. It took me less than a minute to register the kit.”
“For this test, I did have to prick my finger. The process went a lot smoother than I had expected. The kit came with several tips on how to make it easier, like putting your finger against a hard surface so that you don’t have to push as hard, as well as running your hands under warm water and moving them around to get the blood to flow faster. It was a very quick process and took me longer to prep my finger than it did to collect the sample. The lancet tool they provide was very easy to use and not scary, as it was easy to hold and didn’t show the needle at any point in the process.”
“I would definitely recommend this product to our readers. Although I hate getting my finger pricked at the doctor, the Everlywell test kit made it really easy and quick to do at home by myself. I loved using the app and found the entire process of at-home testing to be very clear and quick. It was nice that I got to do the test in the comfort of my own home, on my own time.”
“I had a really positive experience with Everlywell. I have used several of their at home tests and have never had any issues. I really like how easy it is to use their app, both to learn how to collect the sample and to use it for receiving results. I never like having to log into a bunch of portals to get my lab results from the doctor, which are then sometimes confusing to interpret. With Everlywell, I got a notification when my results were ready, and simply clicked it and immediately had an understandable read on my vitamin D levels.”
“This at-home test is a good fit for anyone who wants to skip a doctor’s visit or long lab-work collections.”
— Heather Riesebeck, Healthline Associate
                   
more affordable than other brands
company accepts FSA and HSA payments
significant discount for Everlywell members
doctors explain a person’s results
test can signal inflammation in the body
a longer wait for results than with other companies
mixed online reviews on Trustpilot
some customers found the kit difficult to use
unsuitable for people testing for multiple deficiencies
more affordable than other brands
company accepts FSA and HSA payments
significant discount for Everlywell members
doctors explain a person’s results
test can signal inflammation in the body
a longer wait for results than with other companies
mixed online reviews on Trustpilot
some customers found the kit difficult to use
unsuitable for people testing for multiple deficiencies
Returns: no returns or refunds
Shipping: free shipping
Returns: no returns or refunds
Shipping: free shipping
Comparing vitamin deficiency tests
The table below compares each test for vitamin deficiency in this article in terms of collection method, price, result turnaround time, and more.
LGC Micronutrient Test
LGC
Labcorp Vitamin Deficiency Test
Everlywell At-Home Vitamin D Test
How we chose the best vitamin deficiency tests
We selected these vitamin deficiency tests based on criteria we think are good indicators of safety, quality, and transparency.
As a part of our vetting process, we consider:
the product’s composition, ingredients, and overall quality
any third-party certifications
the company’s reputation and business practices
any lab test results
marketing claims
Read more about how we vet products and brands.
how we vet products and brands
How to choose a vitamin deficiency test
People may wish to consider these factors before buying a test online:
The tested nutrients: Many companies offer comprehensive panels testing several vitamins and minerals. However, some tests only check the levels of certain vitamins. A person needs to pick the test that best suits their needs.
The collection method: Anyone uncomfortable drawing a finger-prick blood sample may prefer a test that relies on a saliva sample instead. However, many vitamin and mineral tests require a blood test.
Fasting: Some tests require a person to fast before taking a sample. Individuals need to check the fasting period before taking the test. These tests may also require people to stop taking certain supplements for a few days before collecting a sample.
The timing of results: Some tests have shorter turnaround times, but these may be more expensive.
Price: Different at-home vitamin deficiency tests fit different budgets. Those that test for a wider range of vitamins may cost more.
Common signs and symptoms of a vitamin deficiency
The specific vitamin deficiency symptoms a person experiences will depend on which vitamin deficiency a person has.
For example, a vitamin C deficiency may cause:
vitamin C deficiency
cause
dental problems
dental
bone fractures
bone fractures
dry eyes
dry eyes
hair loss
hair loss
An iron deficiency can cause fatigue, while a lack of vitamin D can be responsible for:
iron deficiency
cause
responsible
muscle twitches
muscle twitches
fatigue
osteoporosis
osteoporosis
Vitamin tests screen the levels of vitamins and nutrients in the blood. In-person tests will likely require a healthcare professional to draw the blood using a needle. In contrast, at-home tests will provide a lancet for people to collect their own samples.
A person can speak with a doctor about their symptoms before getting a vitamin deficiency test.
How accurate are at-home deficiency tests?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that at-home tests can effectively detect health conditions and monitor existing ones. However, it warns people that they should not replace doctor’s appointments with at-home tests.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
The most reputable companies selling at-home tests send customers’ samples to CLIA certified labs. These are the labs that hospitals and doctor’s offices use, which may suggest the sample analysis will be as accurate as it is for tests that doctors administer.
However, people risk making mistakes or contaminating their samples when they collect them at home. Those uncomfortable collecting their sample may wish to visit an in-person testing center.
What are the most common vitamin deficiencies?
When a person develops a nutritional deficiency, the body may produce symptoms, some of which can be unnoticeable. Though an at-home test should not substitute for a doctor’s or registered dietitian’s advice, it may indicate missing nutrients in a person’s diet.
Although the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020–2025 indicate that a person must aim to meet their vitamin and mineral needs through diet, sometimes they may need a multivitamin to supplement their intake.
Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020–2025
multivitamin
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists several of the most common deficiencies in the United States. These include:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
vitamin B6
vitamin B6
iron
iron
vitamin D
vitamin B12
vitamin E
folate
vitamin A
vitamin A
vitamin C
vitamin C
Learn more about vitamins and how they work.
about vitamins and how they work
Who should get tested for vitamin deficiency?
A 2019 research review showed specific groups of people with a higher risk of developing vitamin or mineral deficiencies. The groups included:
2019 research review
undernourished people
older adults
pregnant people
adolescents
young children
The researchers write that addressing these deficiencies should include improved, more diverse diets and supplementation.
Anyone experiencing symptoms of a vitamin deficiency needs to consult a doctor about getting tested and discuss their results with them if they go ahead with a test.
How to use an at-home vitamin and mineral deficiency test
For any further questions, all reputable at-home tests will have instructions and a customer care line.
Most vitamin deficiency tests require a blood sample. The company should send all necessary equipment, including a lancet, in the original package.
People will likely need to complete a form detailing personal information. Then, they can use the lancet to collect a sample of blood.
The company should provide a return envelope with pre-paid shipping. After a person takes their sample, they can send the envelope off.
People will receive their results soon after, typically within 1 week of the lab receiving the samples. Depending on the company a person uses, they may need to log in or use an app to view their results.
Some companies may offer follow-up advice. Others may suggest contacting a healthcare professional for help interpreting the results.
What to do with vitamin deficiency test results
If a test shows that a person has a vitamin deficiency, they must contact a doctor. Individuals may also wish to inform a doctor if their test does not show a particular deficiency.
If a person receives treatment from a doctor, they may wish to conduct the test again after their treatment ends to see how their vitamin levels change.
A person needs to consult a doctor before making health decisions from the results of an at-home test.
Frequently asked questions about vitamin deficiency tests
People can test for vitamin deficiencies with blood tests. These tests may involve a lab technician taking blood from a vein in the arm or people taking finger-prick tests at home. Medical laboratory scientists will analyze a person’s blood sample and measure the levels of vitamins and minerals in the sample.
People can test for vitamin deficiencies with blood tests. These tests may involve a lab technician taking blood from a vein in the arm or people taking finger-prick tests at home. Medical laboratory scientists will analyze a person’s blood sample and measure the levels of vitamins and minerals in the sample.
Vitamins and minerals are essential for health, and people typically get the vitamins they need through their diet. The 13 essential vitamins are vitamins A, C, D, E, and K, plus thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, biotin, B6, B12, and folate.
are essential
Vitamin deficiencies can cause a range of different symptoms, and the symptoms will depend on the vitamin a person is deficient in.
Vitamins and minerals are essential for health, and people typically get the vitamins they need through their diet. The 13 essential vitamins are vitamins A, C, D, E, and K, plus thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, biotin, B6, B12, and folate.
are essential
Vitamin deficiencies can cause a range of different symptoms, and the symptoms will depend on the vitamin a person is deficient in.
A full vitamin panel is called a comprehensive vitamin and nutrition deficiency panel.
A full vitamin panel is called a comprehensive vitamin and nutrition deficiency panel.
Yes, people can get vitamin deficiency tests from a doctor or from an at-home testing company such as LetsGetChecked or Everlywell.
Yes, people can get vitamin deficiency tests from a doctor or from an at-home testing company such as LetsGetChecked or Everlywell.
A doctor or healthcare professional will analyze test results to diagnose a vitamin or mineral deficiency.
They will then be able to advise whether or not a person should change or supplement their diet with the required vitamins.
A doctor or healthcare professional will analyze test results to diagnose a vitamin or mineral deficiency.
They will then be able to advise whether or not a person should change or supplement their diet with the required vitamins.
Summary
At-home vitamin deficiency tests check levels of vitamins and minerals in a blood sample. They are generally convenient but can be expensive.
Anyone with concerns about a deficiency can consider consulting a doctor, especially if a test returns a positive result. The doctor can check for underlying health conditions, perform further tests, and offer any necessary treatment.