FAQ
Common questions
Which DNA test is best for beginners?
AncestryDNA. It has the largest database by a significant margin — 25+ million testers compared to 23andMe's ~15 million. More testers means more cousin matches, and cousin matches are how you break through genealogy brick walls. After you receive your AncestryDNA results, upload your raw data to MyHeritage and FamilyTreeDNA for free to expand your reach.
Do I need a paid subscription to get started?
No. FamilySearch.org is completely free and has billions of records. Start there, enter what you know, and see how far free resources take you. Add a paid Ancestry subscription when you've hit walls that free records can't break through — which usually happens within the first month of active research.
How far back can I trace my family tree?
With a combination of DNA and documentary records, many people can reach the 1700s or earlier in well-documented lines. In practice, most researchers hit brick walls in the mid-1800s on at least one line — either because records weren't kept, were destroyed, or haven't been digitized. Immigrant ancestors who came through Ellis Island are often easier to trace than families who stayed in rural areas with sparse records.
What if I'm adopted or don't know my biological family?
DNA testing is especially powerful in this situation. A DNA kit through AncestryDNA will match you with biological relatives who have tested, often including first or second cousins who can identify your biological family. The Search Squad and DNA Detectives Facebook groups specialize in helping adoptees navigate this process.
Is my genetic information safe with DNA testing companies?
Each company has different policies. AncestryDNA and 23andMe both let you opt out of research sharing and delete your DNA sample after testing. Read the consent form before submitting — specifically look for what happens if the company is acquired. FamilyTreeDNA is the most researcher-transparent about data use.
Can my relatives see my family tree on Ancestry?
By default, Ancestry trees are private to you and anyone you invite. You can make a tree public, which allows other researchers to see it and attach it to their own — helpful for collaboration, but it means others can see living-relative data you've entered. Living individuals are automatically hidden in public trees, but review your privacy settings before going public.
