When you are ordering tests for people other than yourself, there are some important factors to keep in mind. First, because at FamilyTreeDNA, each person’s account is separate, if you are signed into a kit (your own or one you manage) when you order a test, the test will be run on the DNA sample we already have associated with that kit number.
If you are ordering a new test for someone, it's crucial to ensure you are not logged into any existing kit (your own or one you manage) when you place the order. This is because FamilyTreeDNA accounts are individual, and being logged into a kit will result in the new test being applied to the DNA sample already linked to that kit number.
You can easily see if you are signed into a kit by checking the top-right corner of your page. If it displays an orange “Sign in” button, you are not signed into a kit.
If you see a kit number and name, you are signed in, and any tests ordered will be processed for that tester, so double-check to be sure it is the correct account. If you wish to order testing on a kit that already has a DNA sample checked in, please see our Purchasing Add-Ons & Upgrades article.
The test taker is not interested in genealogy, and I would like to manage their kit.
When ordering DNA tests for friends or family members, keep in mind that the order confirmation (containing the kit number and password) will be emailed to the billing and shipping email address(es) you provide. Importantly, even if you are managing the kit, the account should be under the test taker's name, as this is what will be visible to matches and throughout the platform.
I am managing my relative's kit, but they would like to receive email notifications as well.
You can add any number of email addresses in the Contact Information tab of your Account Settings. While there are enhancements planned to allow for sharing results, currently only an email address with a check mark next to it will receive communication about an account based on the notification settings of the kit. If you are sharing access with another person and both want to receive communications, you will need to add both emails listed in the Contact Information settings and make sure there is a blue check mark next to each.
My relative and I both want to access my relative's kit.
Anyone with the password and kit number of a kit may sign in directly with that information. However, keep in mind that in accordance with our Terms of Service and Privacy Statement, the DNA belongs to the donor, regardless of who paid for the test, and has full rights to all their genetic information.
Why do I have to enter a gender on the kit when I order?
Some of our DNA tests look specifically at the Y chromosome, which is passed down from father to son. Genetic females do not receive a Y chromosome, so they cannot purchase these tests for themselves, but can purchase them for genetic male testers.
I do not yet know who will take the test.
It is always good to be prepared for unexpected family connections. If you would like to order a test, but do not yet have a test candidate, or if the candidate has not yet agreed, this information can be updated to fit the test taker at any time.
We recommend ordering the test with the name of the kit manager. This way, your contact information is listed, and our customer service representatives can help identify you as the kit owner if any issues arise. For shipping purposes, you can also enter TBD as the name, with c/o [your name] along with the address.
When we receive the returned collection kit, the name and genetic sex listed on the kit will be updated by our accessioning team based on the information provided in the DNA Processing Consent Form included with the collection kit.
I do not know the genetic sex of the test taker.
The genetic sex listed on the kit can be changed at any time, though ensuring it is correct prior to processing the sample is preferable as a mismatch between the test type and the gender of the tester will show up as an error in quality control and may delay delivery of results. The genetic sex will be updated by our Accessioning team based on the information provided in the DNA Processing Consent Form included with the collection kit. You may also contact our customer support center.
Can I buy a kit and pay for the test later when I find a test taker?
When you purchase a DNA test, the price covers our internal costs, including materials, labor, and shipping. Therefore, payment is required at the time of order. If you later find that you cannot identify a test taker, please contact us. We can explore options such as transferring the test or payment to a different kit or discussing available refund options.
I bought a test but the test candidate changed their mind.
If you haven't yet given the kit to the initial test taker, you have the flexibility to update the name and contact details in the kit's Account Settings to accommodate an alternate person or a gift recipient. We can also adjust the genetic sex information if required.
If the original individual has already received the kit, the best course of action is to contact Customer Service for a new kit, and we can move the purchased test to that new kit. Although shipping fees may apply, this precaution is essential to avoid any potential mix-ups if the original person sends in a sample after you've already tested someone else with the original kit number.
In the event you are unable to find a test taker, we can work with you on moving the test or payment to another kit, or other refund options.