for how long will these test kits stay accurate and useable?

I have had them lsat up to a year in my home and still be just fine and work well. The nitrAte test absolutely, without a doubt, must be shaken before using the drops from bottle #2, because if you fail to do so, your test will cease to become accurate after a number of tests.

I have never seen any dates on the test kits themselves, so it is hard to determine how long they may have sat on the shelf in the store, though. And in what conditions - heat, etc. I try to buy them at a store that seems to have good turnover....

Go to the website http://aquariumpharm.com/en_us/contact.asp
Leave your question in the "helpdesk".
They have been very responsive and helpful for me.

alright thanks

Carol since I no longer have goldies and just a betta, should I keep my master test kit and buy one of those small bowl tests I saw at petco or just keep my master test and use it?

As long as you have it, I would use it. The tests are the same - just different sizes of liquid in them as I understand it.

Thanks Carol,
that is what I figured and went ahead kept my kit. I also finally got a reply to the e-mail I sent them about 3 weeks ago about breaking a tube. they said they would send me a replacement. the kit will be a good thing to have around. I have been changing Ginseng's water every 3 days or so since he is in an unfiltered large vase. I can tell when he needs his water changed. he starts drooping his fns. I changed it last night and he was a happy camper