Questions
Is my information confidential? Yes, we will not share your information with anyone without your consent. On AncestryDNA only people that are DNA matches can see that you took the test. You can also use an Alias within Ancestry DNA, and later remove your results entirely or put them as private so no one can see you as a match.
Why do I have to take the Ancestry DNA test? Currently, it has the best combination of having the largest database of DNA customers in the United States. These are your potential DNA cousins. Also, Ancestry has excellent genealogy sources which helps us combine DNA and historical sources to find your biological family.
I am looking for a child given up for adoption, what should I do? If you have identifying or non-identifying information, we can take a look as if it is possible to find them. If you do not have non identifying information, we recommend that you take the AncestryDNA test as well as 23 & Me. We then would encourage you to download the DNA information from one of them and upload them for free to www.gedmatch.com , www.myheritage.com, and www.ftdna.com . This essentially provides a better chance of finding the child if they decide to take a DNA test. At this time AncestryDNA and 23 & Me do not allow you to upload your DNA to their websites. So, you have to purchase a test and submit it.
How much does the Ancestry DNA test? The Ancestry DNA test is $120 + $9.95 for shipping. They seem to run sales so keep an eye out.
What if my relatives took a test other than Ancestry DNA? You do have the option of downloading your DNA information from Ancestry.com and uploading it to other DNA services. It is something you should think carefully about doing. There are many people who do it but be cautious as this is your DNA. Read the privacy policies of these companies prior to sharing. Also, it is a good practice to delete the DNA file from your computer after sharing it. Another option is to purchase another test with the other DNA test companies. The companies listed below allow you to upload your DNA from ancestry.
Why would I want to share my DNA on other DNA sites? If your biological sibling or aunt and uncle or 8th cousin 10 times remove… took another test, sites like http://www.gedmatch.com were created to bring people together from the different testing companies. They also have some useful DNA tools.
Can you find or determine my biological parents? In most cases we can at least get as close as determining your biological Grandparents. It depends on the number of children they have or if those family members are willing or have taken the DNA tests. The thing that makes finding your biological parent the most difficult is how recently the immigrated to the us, and how well documented their families are.
Does it have to a male that takes the DNA test? No, the AncestryDNA test uses the autosomal DNA test. So, it can be a male or female that takes the test.
Do I have to contact living family or can I just research more my family history? No, you do not have to contact you family. We can build a family tree only. Really it is about what you want to know and what you are comfortable with.
Great! I want to use your service; how do I share my DNA matches with you? We will send you a link to some instructions on how to share access to your DNA results and a family tree. Please do not send us your login and password for Ancestrydna.com. Ancestry is setup to keep your information secure, lets keep it that way.
I was adopted from a foreign country, the closest cousins I have are 4th-6th cousins, can you help? That is a little tricky, sometimes we can help, sometimes we cannot. Send a message. Some countries do not have a lot of sources online to research your family tree using DNA and genealogy like we do.
Depending on the adoption information you have, we will try to put you in contact with someone in your birth country that can help. We want everyone to be successful in their search, even if we are not the right path.
We do recommend that you take the AncestryDNA test as well as 23 & Me. We then would encourage you to download the DNA information from one of them and upload them for free to www.gedmatch.com , www.myheritage.com, and www.ftdna.com . This essentially provides a better chance of finding DNA matches that could be more closely related to you, if they decide to take a DNA test. At this time AncestryDNA and 23 & Me do not allow you to upload your DNA to their websites. So, you have to purchase a test and submit it.
My Best advice: If you are reaching out to a biological family member, be gentle things are kept secret and not talked about. People’s first instinct is that it is a scam. Remember you have had more time typically to process your feelings then the ones you are hoping to contact. For some people this is a life changing experience, a “BIG DEAL” on both sides. People are scared, and nervous on both sides. If people don’t respond the way you want or expect, keep in mind that these things take time. Do not be afraid to speak with a professional about your feelings.
Don’t see the question? Please click on the link below. We are happy to answer any questions to find out if this is the right path for you. We understand this is both exciting and scary all at the same time.
Lost Tree 