If your period is late and you suspect you might be pregnant, it's important to know when is the best time to take a home pregnancy test for accurate results. Generally, most home pregnancy tests can detect the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in urine about one week after your missed period. However, some tests claim they can provide accurate results even earlier, as soon as five days before your expected period. It's important to note that these early detection tests may not be as reliable and could lead to false negatives if taken too early. To ensure the most accurate results, it's recommended to wait until at least one week after your missed period before taking a home pregnancy test. If you get a negative result but still suspect you might be pregnant, it's advisable to wait a few more days and retest or consult with your healthcare provider for further guidance.