FAQs

How do I pay for an order?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 15:36:03 GMT

In the process of placing an order, you will go through two screens. The first screen contains the name of the person being tested and where the kit needs to be sent. After you submit the information on the first screen, the next screen will be your payment option. Depending on your payment option, the second screen will ask for credit card details or billing information for the invoice. The credit card option should be selected if you would like to pay online with a credit card. When paying using the invoice option, once you receive the invoice - which may come either with the kit or to the billing address if different from the shipping address - payment can be submitted by US check, US money order, PayPal or credit card. Tests will be processed only after payment is received.

Is it possible to pay for a kit to be sent to another person (third-party billing)?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:36:52 GMT

Certainly. In the process of placing an order, you will go through two screens. The first screen contains the name of the person being tested and where the kit needs to be sent. After you submit the information on the first screen, the next screen will be your payment option. There you can have the name and billing information for the third-party. Payment for the invoice option can be submitted by US check, US money order, PayPal or credit card. Tests will be processed only after payment is received.

What is Family Tree DNA's refund policy?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

If someone "changes his/her mind" after a kit is ordered and paid for but unused, a refund will be given less the amount to cover credit card charges, shipping and cost of the kit. Those deductions are $10 for orders under $200, $15 for orders between $200 and $350, $20 for orders from $351 to $550, and $25 for orders over $550. If an order was placed mistakenly (person does not fit into a surname project or female ordered male test, for example), paid for and unused, a full refund will be given. We will not give refunds after kits enter lab processing. Delays in scientific testing can occur. Therefore, refunds are not given in the case of delayed results.

Can I add my kit to a surname project and receive a refund for the group rate?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

Before a kit is sent to the lab for testing, an email should be sent to juliew@familytreedna.com with the kit number and project to add the kit to. For credit card charges, a credit will be applied to the credit card used. A refund check will be mailed for check or money order purchases. If the kit has not yet been paid for, the invoice price will be adjusted. Once a kit is at the lab for processing, refunds will not be given for joining a project.

How do I pay for a certificate of my results?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 10:48:06 GMT

The first certificate is FREE. Please do not place a certificate order unless you want an additional copy. You may place the certificate order by logging in to your personal page and selecting the "Order Certificate" link in the left side column. Each additional certificate is $10. Only credit card payment is accepted for certificate orders.

How do I submit payment to upload my results to the National Geographic Genographic Project?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 11:08:25 GMT

Once results are available, a Genographic Project tab will appear on the personal page. Click this tab and check the “I agree” box if you agree to the consent form. The next screen will show the participant''s information, the $15 charge for transferring results and the test to be transferred. Credit card is accepted for payment online. However, you may also send us a check by mail, with a note indicating that you would like us to add your results to the Genographic Project. Once we do the transfer, you will receive an email notification with your GPID (Genographic ID). The $15 transfer fee is a one time charge per participant. If you have results for both Y-DNA and mtDNA, only one charge will apply. After submitting the first test to the Genographic Project, please contact us at info at familytreedna.com and we will submit the second test without an additional charge.

Is it possible to pay for an upgrade or additional test on someone else’s kit?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 11:10:31 GMT

For privacy reasons, we need permission from the participant or contact to upgrade their kit. Upgrading the kit and third-party billing will proceed via email once permission is granted. If you feel that you have a special circumstance that you need to make us aware of, please e-mail info at familytreedna.com.

Can I change my test before it is sent to the lab?

Family Tree DNA — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 09:31:18 GMT

Yes. Please email info@familytreedna.com with the kit number and test type to add/change. A refund will be issued if the original test was paid for and the new test amount is less than the original. A new invoice or payment link will be given if the new test price is greater than the original.

How do I pay for an order?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:37:15 GMT

How do I order a certificate of the results?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:37:48 GMT

How do I upload my Family Tree DNA results to the National Geographic Genographic project?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:38:02 GMT

Can I change my test before it is sent to the lab?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 14:55:38 GMT

Yes. Please email helpdesk@ftdna.com with the kit number and test type to add/change. A refund will be issued if the original test was paid for and the new test amount is less than the original. A new invoice or payment link will be given if the new test price is greater than the original.

How do I order a certificate of the results?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:38:23 GMT

How do I use the Update Contact Information link?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 11:41:27 GMT

The Update Contact Information link is located at the left side column of your personal page. It helps you keep us up to date on your contact information. If any changes need to be made in order to contact you successfully (change of email, being the most important) you can update the information here. We highly recommend that you keep at least your e-mail updated so that you can keep receiving match notifications.

Can my group members view my data in the Update Contact Information section?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 11:42:25 GMT

No. Only you and your Group Administrator(s) can see your Update Contact Information page.

Can I add a co-administrator to my project?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 11:43:15 GMT

Not only you can, but you should add a co-administrator by entering his/her email address into the appropriate area of the Group Administration Page. They will receive all future notifications sent to the Group Administrator. To access the Group Administrator Page you will need to share the kit number (begins with the letter D) and password with that individual.

What percent of Jews carry the Cohanim gene?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

From studies performed at cemeteries, about 5% of Jews appear to be Cohanim. Furthermore, in a study conducted in Israel where people were asked at random if they were Cohanim, Levites or Israel, of those answering Israel, about 3% tested positive for the Cohanim gene.

When should I use a genetic testing service?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

A DNA test works in conjunction with existing genealogical records and our tests help you fill in the gaps where no records exist. To be clear, we can determine descent from your father''s father or your mother''s mother. That means in the case of an individual''s great-grandparent''s generation, we can determine a link to two of your eight great-grandparents. You can, however, easily determine other family links by obtaining DNA samples from your male and female cousins.

What does the Project Profile Page do?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

This page allows you to edit the information that is presented to potential members. When a person visits www.familytreedna.com they can search all of the surnames that have tested with Family Tree DNA. A list of projects that include the name will appear. This allows potential members to view a brief summary of the project and its goals and order a test to join your group (unless a Join Request is required, see below). This link allows you to edit the information pertaining to your group that is exchanged here.

What is the Surname Project list? Should I check the box to show my project in this list?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 12:04:16 GMT

The Surname Project list is an alphabetical listing of all the Surname Projects that are available for a person to join. Some individuals will not use the search feature, and will discover your project through this list. If this option is not selected, they will only find the project by searching for the surname. If you are organizing a small project with specific individuals you may not want to include your project in the list. However, if your goal is to attract as many people as you can for your project, than it is worth make it vusibale in that list.

What is a Join Request?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 12:04:43 GMT

The Join Request option changes the appearance of the Group Description that is shown to prospective members. This allows you to request that a potential member contact you before ordering a kit and joining your group. This can help prevent individuals ordering from groups to which they would not belong. It also helps with projects that are looking for specific descendants.

What will happen if I do not allow an order without a Join Request?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 12:08:33 GMT

If you require a Join Request, visitors interested in your group will not be able to order a kit from the Group Description. Instead of viewing an order form at the bottom of your description, if you require that a Join Request be used, the potential participant will see a form to contact you first. This form will not provide your email address to the user. When you receive the Join Request, you can use the “Send Join Authorization” link to send them a link which will guarantee that they are entered into your project and that they pay the group rate for their test. Alternatively, you can reply by telling the person if there are any conditions to be part of the Project. If this is your option, please make sure to check your e-mail as frequently as you can, so that people that have requested to join do not lose their motivation to order the test.

What do I enter for the group name?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

You should enter the name you would like displayed to individuals who view the Group Description. For example, if there are multiple spellings of a particular name, you may want to select the most popular. The name of the group will not limit the names that are used in the project. You’ll be able to include various spellings near the bottom of the Project Profile Page.

Who is the scientist, or scientists, that are heading and overseeing this project?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

The Genographic Project is headed by Spencer Wells, Ph.D. Dr. Wells is a geneticist and anthropologist by training. He is a National Geographic explorer-in-residence and is the scientific director of the Genographic Project. Dr. Wells has helped put together a team of renowned scientists around the world to carry out the global field research of the Genographic Project. In addition, the Project will have an Advisory Board that will provide advice and oversight on, matters such as funding priorities, ethical issues, and legal compliance over the course of the Project. The Advisory Board is comprised of respected leaders across a spectrum of disciplines. Dr. Luca Cavalli-Sforza, a world-renowned geneticist, chairs the board. The board members are: – Dr. Luca Cavalli-Sforza (Chair) – Terry Garcia (EVP, Mission Programs, National Geographic Society) – Nick Donofrio (SVP, Technology and Manufacturing, IBM) – John Heubusch (President, Waitt Family Foundation) – Lord Colin Renfrew (Archaeologist) – Dr. Merrit Ruhlen (Linguist) – Dr. Meave Leakey (Paleoanthropologist) – Wade Davis (Cultural Anthropologist) – Tammy Williams (Indigenous Peoples’ Advocate) – Scott Edwards (Evolutionary Geneticist) – Simon Longstaff (Ethicist)

How will my privacy be handled?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

Genographic Project public participant samples are assigned a randomly generated, non-sequential Genographic Project ID (GPID) number for processing and analysis. Public participants can access their results anonymously via the secure participant area of the Genographic web site using his or her GPID number. To protect your privacy, National Geographic does not associate any personally identifiable information about you with this randomly assigned password. Therefore, if you lose this password we cannot recover it for you or provide you with any other means of accessing the results of your participation. YOU MUST RETAIN THIS PASSWORD IN ORDER TO ACCESS YOUR GENETIC MIGRATORY PROFILE.

Will health aspects be part of the project? Will the health or insurance companies have access to any information?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

The samples collected from the indigenous groups as well as the samples submitted by the general public via the Public Participation Kits will be analyzed purely for historical and anthropological data; no medically-relevant data will be collected or analyzed, nor will the the DNA be shared. The tests do not tell us anything about your health or about any health problems you or your family may have.

How do I create a website to add to the Project Profile Page?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:00:44 GMT

Use Family Project Website Setup link to create a free Family Tree DNA public website for your project. You will see that there are blank sections, each with a unique title, the first being “Title” where you should enter the name of your project. Enter any information about the history of the project in the "Project Background" section. "Project Goals" lets you explain what you want to accomplish with the group. "Project Results" allows you to include information about what the results show. "Project News" is a section that you can update to let members know about new developments such as new members or results. The page can automatically generate a table with the results of all participants without identifying them.

What is the Email Options section?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

As a Group Administrator, you can receive immediate notification any time there is news for your group. We will notify you when a new member joins the group, when results for a member are posted, when matches are found, when a kit is returned, etc. Here you have the option of selecting which notifications you would like to receive for your group. If there is no “X” next to the description, we will not send that notification.

How do I add a description to the Project Profile Page?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:02:53 GMT

Go to your Group administration Pages by using the specific ID and password. Choose the "Project Profile Page" link and simply add the text that you want to display regarding the group in the Group Description area. There is a maximum of 1500 characters for this section. This will be viewed by individuals searching and viewing information about your surname and its project.

What is a join code? What is the join link?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

The group join code is the identifying number that is assigned to your group. When this number is contained in links, like the join link, it ensures that your group members are included in your project.

How can I add various spellings accepted in the project?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:04:35 GMT

Log into your Group Administration Pages and click on the "Project Profiles Page". Just under the Group Description section, there is an area which will allow you to include surname variants for your project. There is no limit on how many surnames you can include and you can use one box to enter as many names as necessary, separating each name with a comma. Be sure to select “Update” after entering the information.

Help, I entered information on the Project Profile Page, but nothing is showing up on Family Tree DNA, what did I miss?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

After making any changes in the Project Profile Page, always be sure to scroll all the way to the bottom of the page and click on the “Update” button, or the changes will not be saved.

What do I get back as a result of my participation?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:14:21 GMT

The Genographic Project is going to test your sample to determine what migratory routes your deep ancestors (on either your mother’s or father’s side of the family) followed and to which branch of the human family tree you belong. The tests do not tell us anything about your health or about any health problems you or your family may have. Once National Geographic has conducted the DNA analysis, you will be able to access your personal genetic migratory profile by logging on to the Genographic Project’s personal gateway web page at www.genographic.com and using your Genographic Project Participant ID number provided to you in your kit. Participation in the Project is of course purely voluntary. By returning the sample, you are consenting to have your DNA sample tested to determine your migratory history. Once this test is completed, you can expand your own genealogical research by electing to do further testing with Family Tree DNA. Unless you transfer your record to Family Tree DNA, your sample will be discarded at the conclusion of the project.

Who will receive the bulk email message?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

On the individual members’ personal pages, participants have the option to decide if they would like to receive bulk email messages from you, their Group Administrator(s). Those individuals who select “Yes” in their set up preferences will receive the bulk email message from the Group Administrator. Individuals who select “No” will not be included in the list of individuals who receive the bulk email message.

What tests are offered and how will it help my genealogical study?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:19:40 GMT

The tests offered are the Y-DNA 12 markers for males and the mtDNA (HVR1) for females. They will address solely your deep ancestral origins and migratory history. If you need to test more markers to help with your genealogical research, you can either start with the Genographic Project and then transfer your record to Family Tree DNA and request additional tests, or you can order a test kit directly from Family Tree DNA. If you are not sure which way to go, you are welcome to e-mail support@familytreedna.com

Will group members be able to see each other’s email addresses in this section?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

The bulk email uses the “blind carbon copy” option, which means it will generate a list so that the only email shown to the recipient is their own. They will not be able to view the other email addresses included in the bulk email.

How does a member select to be on the bulk email list?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:21:32 GMT

Participants may use the “User Preferences” link on the left side on their personal page to choose whether or not to receive bulk email messages.

What is a Join Authorization?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

A Join Authorization allows someone to join your project. This link will take them to an order form specifically for your group where they can order their test at group rate and can automatically join. This is not limited to groups that use the Join Request option. Group Administrators for any project can use this option.

Who should I send a Join Authorization to?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

This link should be sent to anyone that you would like to include in your project. If you use the Join Request option, this should be sent to people that you approve of allowing in the group. If you do not use the option, you can use it for emailing individuals who may have already spoken to you about the group. This is one way of making sure that they order and are included in your group.

I have already tested with the Genographic Project. How can I join Family Tree DNA?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

Joining Family Tree DNA after you received your results from the Genographic Project is simple. At the bottom of your results page you will see a link "Learn More", which takes you to Family Tree DNA. You will also be invited to join a Surname Project during the process of transferring your data, and obtain additional information related to genealogy at no extra cost. Should you decide to do any of the other genealogy-related tests that we offer, including upgrades to more markers, you will be entitled to a reduced rate and Family Tree DNA won't need to collect your sample again, as Family Tree DNA offers to store your DNA for 25 years as an additional service - free of charge.

Will health aspects be analyzed or will insurance companies have access to any information?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:27:10 GMT

The DNA samples collected will be analyzed purely for anthropological and genealogical data; no medically-relevant data will be collected or analyzed, nor will the the DNA be shared. The tests do not tell us anything about your health or about health problems you or your family may have. In addition to that, in 2008 the Congress approved legislation that was signed by the President, preventing insurance companies to use DNA information to deny insurance coverage (the GINA Act).

How do I use the Member section?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:28:00 GMT

This section lists all the members of your group. If you receive an email from us notifying you that a kit has been returned, but you are unsure of whom the kit belongs to, you can use the Member section to find the kit number. To the right of the kit number you will find the participant’s name. In addition to that it lists several other facts related to the participant.

How is the member list organized?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:28:58 GMT

The list is arranged in numerical order of the kits that have been returned. Below that list of kits, we list the kits that have not been returned to Family Tree DNA. There is no link to their personal page because one is not created until the sample is received by Family Tree DNA. There are different columns shown with additional information.

What does “Surname Matches Only” mean?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

Each individual participant, in their “Setup Preferences” section, has the option to either see matches only in their Surname Project, or to see matches in the entire database, regardless of group. In the Member section, under the “Surname Matches Only” if a member has this option selected, “Yes” will be displayed. If the member has chosen to view all matches in the database, there will be a “No” displayed. The default setting for this option, that will appear before results are returned, is “Yes.”

How can I tell when the kit was sent and when it was received?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

The column next to the “Surname Matches Only” column is the “Kit Back/Kit Mailed” section. If a participant’s kit has been sent, but not received, we will display the date it was sent in red. If we have received the kit, we will list the date the kit was received in black.

How can I determine if a group member has signed and returned a release form?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

The "Release" column in the Member section will show which members have signed the release form. If there is a “No” next to a member’s name under this column, that member did not return a release form and his name and email address will not be shown to matches. If there is a “Yes” in this column, the member did sign the release form and can compare against others.

What is genetic distance?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:32:41 GMT

Genetic distance is the number of differences, or mutations, between two sets of results. For example, if two men test DYS # 393 and one of them scores a 12 and the other is a 13, but their results for all the other markers are identical, there is a genetic distance of one and they are a one-step mutation match. However, if the first man scores an 11 and the second scores a 13, then there are two mutations on the same marker, so the genetic distance is two.

What does the Report button do?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

Family Tree DNA has a patent pending tool that helps determine the probability that two individuals share a common male ancestor based on their genetic distance. This tool is called the FTDNATiP Calculator (link to FTDNA TIP FAQ). The Report option will show the genetic distance of the member selected compared to other members in the project. To see how that genetic distance translates to time to a common male ancestor, click on “FTDNATiP” across from the person to compare to. This will generate the FTDNATiP Report which shows the likelihood of having shared a common male ancestor in the past.

Where is the country of origin entered for a participant? What does “unknown” mean?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

The release form contains a section asking for the paternal country of origin, and the maternal country of origin. When a kit is returned we enter this information. If no country is reported or more than one country is entered, the country is listed as unknown. Group members can update this information in the Update Contact Information link on their personal pages.

Will these tests give me a percentage of my ancestry?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

We do not offer a percentage of ancestry test or admixture mapping as Y-DNA and mitochondrial DNA only trace direct lines. The tests we offer can trace the father''s father''s father''s...line of a male or the mother''s mother''s mother''s...line of males and females. You can see what these direct lines look like here: www.familytreedna.com/inheritance-chart.aspx. This will allow you to determine what region of the world the direct line tested is from.

Can I test to determine if I have Native American ancestry?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 15:10:34 GMT

Native Americans in general belong to one of five mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) haplogroups: A, B, C, D or X and all of these are widely distributed throughout the Americas. The mtDNA is transfered from mother to daughter to grand-daughter and so on, without any influence of spouses along that line.

Likewise, paternal DNA testing, or Y-DNA, can tell if your Native heritage comes to you from your father without the influence of any spouses along that paternal line. If a female wants to know about it, she will need to have the testing done on a near male relative however, such as a brother.

Family Tree DNA will provide this information for a person testing their mtDNA or Y-DNA.

Can I determine if I have African ancestry?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:36:02 GMT

People of African ancestry in general belong to a haplogroup identified on their direct maternal (mtDNA) or paternal (Y-DNA) lines. The mtDNA is transfered from mother to daughter to grand-daughter and so on, without any influence of spouses along that line. Likewise, paternal DNA testing, or Y-DNA, can tell if your African heritage comes to you from your father without the influence of any spouses along that paternal line. If a female wants to know about it, she will need to have the testing done on a near male relative however, such as a brother. Family Tree DNA will provide this information for a person testing their mtDNA or Y-DNA.

Why are projects offered and when should I join?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 15:11:29 GMT

Surname or Geographic Projects connect individuals that have the same surname or a variant, or common place of origin. Joining a Surname Project (males only) could be very helpful to verify relationships with individuals that share a similar surname. Y-DNA Geographical Projects are offered to verify a possible point of origin for the direct paternal line. The mtDNA Lineage Project researches individuals that have or suspect having the same direct maternal line. The mtDNA Geographical Projects help to verify a possible point of origin for the direct maternal line. You can join a project before you test or after you receive your results.

I have a new member but I don’t see him in the member list, why?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

If a new member’s name and kit number do not appear at the end of the list (where kits which have not been received yet are shown) the individual may not have ordered through the group project. Please contact us IMMEDIATELY so we can confirm that the order was placed outside of the group, and we will correct the error, including adjusting the price for the test. Once the kit goes to our lab we cannot adjust the price.

Someone is in our group who should not be, how do I remove him?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 15:25:07 GMT

If there is an individual who does not meet your group requirements, or should be removed from the project you may do so using the black “X” to the right of the person’s name and profile information under the Members information area of the GAP. This will create a box that appears asking for a brief explanation as to why they are being removed. An email will be sent from info@familytreedna.com to the individual.

What does the Add a New Member link do?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

This allows you to quickly order a test kit for someone interested in joining the project. This is a simple way to guarantee that they are included in your group.

How can I pay for a test?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:38:41 GMT

I do not wish to pay for the test, but the bill should not go with the kit. How do I bill a third party?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:39:12 GMT

Very simple. In the process of placing an order, you will go through two screens. The first screen contains the name of the person being tested and where the kit needs to be sent. After you submit the information on the first screen, the next screen will be your payment option. There you can have the name and billing information for the third-party.

The second screen will ask for credit card details or billing information for the invoice. Using the invoice option, include the billing address of the third-party - payment can be submitted by US check, US money order, PayPal or credit card. Tests be processed only after payment is received.

How do I know the order I placed was completed?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

After you have placed the order, you can go back to your Group Administrator Page menu page and select Members. The new kit should appear at the bottom of the list (if not you should be able to click refresh button and see this new name).

What is the Order Multiple Kits link?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

This allows Group Administrators to order many kits at one time. Sometimes it is helpful to have several kits to take to a family reunion or a genealogical meeting. You can order these kits to be sent ahead of time (either paying for them by credit card, or requesting an invoice).

How many kits can I order at a time?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 15:28:43 GMT

You can order up to ten kits at once using the Order multiple kits option. If you need more kits you are welcome to contact us.

If I order multiple kits do I have to pay for them all at once?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

Multiple kits do not have to be paid for at the time of order. You can request the kits be ordered on invoice. We will send a bill with the kits. As each kit is returned it can be paid for individually.

If I order multiple kits at once, whose names will appear on the kit?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

In each of the kits sent in a multiple order, Family Tree DNA includes a form asking for information about who provided the sample. When the kit is returned to us we enter this information into our records and the correct name will appear in the Members section.

Is there a way to easily identify and update who returned a sample?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

Yes. If a kit has been returned, you can update the information using the Group Administrator Page Members link. From the GAP, click on the Members link and then click on the name next to the kit number that should be updated. You can change the information in this section, select “Update,” and the information in our records will be updated.

Why are there kits listed in the Pending Shipment to Lab section of my Group Administrator Page?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

Kits that are received in our offices are sent once a week to the lab for processing. While they are awaiting their shipment to the lab, we list them here.

When are kits shipped to the lab?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

Kits are shipped to the lab once a week, on Wednesday. The following day pending results are posted to the group members’ personal pages as well as in the Unreceived Lab Results section.

Why has this kit been listed as pending shipment to lab for so long?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

Kits that have not been paid for will remain in the Pending Shipment to Lab section. Kits will not be shipped to the lab until complete payment is received.

Why is the same kit listed more than once in Unreceived Lab Results?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

The Y-DNA 25, 37 and 67 marker tests are performed in sections called panels. The Y-DNA 12 marker test (markers 1-12) is the first panel, the 13-25 marker section is the next, followed by the 26-37 panel, and finally the 38-67 section (made up of 3 panels: 38-47, 48-60, and 61-67). We show these sections to you so you can see the progress of each of these panels. Sometimes the lab will return results for the 26-37 marker section before returning results for markers 13-25. Family Tree DNA will post these 26-37 markers (if the first 12 have been posted) and the 26-37 markers will no longer appear in the Unreceived Lab Results section for the group.

How do I check on the status of a test listed in Unreceived Lab Results?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 15:39:57 GMT

Family Tree DNA will update the pending date results as soon as possible. However, for specific results questions not covered by the FAQ you can contact Family Tree DNA by emailing info at familytreedna.com.

How is the Received Lab Results list organized, and what does it show?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

Each time new results are posted for a group member, we notify you by email and register what was received, Y-DNA 1-12 for example, and when it was posted. This list will be organized chronologically by date of the returned results.

What are my options for viewing Y-DNA Results?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

You have two options when viewing Y-DNA results: the Generate Y-DNA Results Classic Chart and the Generate Y-DNA Results Colorized Chart. The classic chart will allow you to use fixed columns as well as to copy and paste results. Instructions for using the colorized chart can be found here: www.familytreedna.com/ftgroups_score_new_desc.html.

Why are some haplogroups in red and others in green on the Y-DNA results chart?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

Haplogroups that are in red are confidently predicted using a comparison of the Y-DNA 12 results of your members to our entire database of individuals who have been SNP tested. By comparing the members to men who have had their samples SNP tested, we can accurately predict which haplogroup would be assigned, if a SNP is performed. Haplogroups displayed in green are confirmed by a SNP test.

Why is my member missing a section of his Y-DNA results?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

The lab performs testing in panels. A Y-DNA 37 marker test, for example, is actually three separate tests: the Y-DNA 1-12, Y-DNA 13 – 25 and the Y-DNA 26-37 marker panel. Sometimes the lab will complete one of these panels out of order, so the 26-37 markers will be complete before the 13-25, for example. When this occurs we provide the 26-37 marker results to the Group Administrator, so you can compare the first 12 and the final set without having to wait for the middle portion of results.

What are fixed columns?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

When viewing your group’s results, you have the option of either viewing them with or without fixed columns. Fixing the columns allow you to scroll to the right, but leaves the columns with the names and kit numbers of members shown on the left hand side. If you do not use fixed columns you will not be able to view the names and kit numbers when you scroll to the right. If you use subgroups you will not be able to fix columns.

What is the mtDNA test?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:06:23 GMT

The mtDNA test traces a person’s direct maternal line-the mother's mother's mother's...mother’s line with no influences from spouses along that line (see http://www.familytreedna.com/inheritance-chart.aspx)-and determines the single origin, such as Native American, African, Asian, or European. This test cannot be compared to the Y-DNA test to determine if two individuals share a common ancestor. The mtDNA test can be compared to the mtDNA tests of other individuals, in order to determine if they may have shared a common female ancestor in the past. For questions about mtDNA tests or results see our mtDNA tutorial section at http://www.familytreedna.com/reading-and-comparing-test-results.aspx.

What does the Unique Haplotypes link show?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

This section shows the different haplotypes found in your group, and lists the number of members who share them.

What does the Unique Haplotypes section used for?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:07:07 GMT

This helps the Group Administrator determine how many individuals within the group are descended from a common male ancestor, as well as how many are not connected to anyone in the project.

What does the Family Project Website Setup link do?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

This link allows you to create a public website for your group’s results. Family Tree DNA has provided a form that is designed to easily organize and display information about your group and the results from your project.

How do I add information to the public website?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:39:29 GMT

You will see that there are blank sections, each with a unique title, the first being “Title” where you should enter the name of your project. Enter any information about the history of the project in the "Project Background" section. "Project Goals" lets you explain what you want to accomplish with the group. "Project Results" allows you to include information about what the results show. "Project News" is a section that you can update to let members know about new developments such as new members or results. The page can automatically generate a table with the results of all participants without identifying them.

Do I have to add project results to the public page?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

The results will automatically be updated and uploaded to the project. You do not have to copy and paste any results. In fact, changes you’ve made to the Generate Y-DNA Results page, like subgrouping, will automatically be uploaded to the web page for your group.

How can I edit the information that is displayed on the public website?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

Any changes made to the results will be reflected on the results section of the page. So to edit information like subgrouping, you will have to update it within the GAP, and the changes will appear on your public website. To edit the information you have provided in the cookie cutter spaces, return to the Family Project Website Setup link and make any changes to the content that you would like. Just be sure to click “Submit” after any changes to update the information.

How can I show my email as the Group Administrator? How can I restrict my email?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

You can control this option from the Family Project Website Setup link on your Group Administrator Page. You will find this and other choices under the "Project News" field.

What are tabs? What will happen if I do not use them on the public website?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

Group Administrators have the option of displaying at the top of their pages, the different sections available to view, so a member can click on “Y Results” and be taken to the section of the page that focuses on Y-DNA results. If you do not use this option, the participant will be able to view all of the information in the order of the cookie cutter forms, by scrolling down the page. Neither option will affect how results appear.

Where do I go to order the kit?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

To order a kit from the Genographic Project, visit their website, www.genographic.com. To order a test kit from Family Tree DNA, please visit our website, www.familytreedna.com

What is the Member Distribution Map?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:18:12 GMT

This is a new feature in your personal page which you can use to see where the ancestors of your matches come from. A pushpin will appear on the map for each match who has entered the latitude and longitude of their most distant known ancestor’s location. If you have entered the latitude and longitude for your own most distant known ancestor, it will also appear on the map so you can compare the locations. The map can display any matching level for Y-DNA and mtDNA, based on what you have tested.

What is the Member Subgrouping link?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:19:24 GMT

A detailed explanation of Member Subgrouping can be viewed here: http://www.familytreedna.com/GroupInstruction.html.

How many projects can a person belong to?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:19:53 GMT

Members can join unlimited number of projects.

How many administrators should I have?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

We generally recommend that a project eventually include more than one administrator. This is to help ensure that if for some reason (vacations, health, etc.) you are unable to administer the project, it will still have someone to govern it, help answer questions from group members and other functions. Additionally, many Group Administrators have found it helpful to add others who may have a little more technical know-how to the group to work on project results for the group’s website.

How do I list additional administrators?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:20:41 GMT

You can add a co-administrator by entering their name and email address in the additional email section of the Update Contact Information section on your Group Administrator Page. They will receive all future notifications sent to the Group Administrator. To access the Group Administrator Page you will need to share the kit number (begins with the letter D) and passcode with that individual.

What happens when I am ready to retire as Group Administrator?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

When you are ready to retire as the group’s administrator, if you have co-administrators, they can take over and maintain the group. If there are no co-administrators at the time, you can contact your group to let them know of the change, and ask if anyone would like to take over. Additionally, please let us know, as we will serve as a temporary administrator for the project until a replacement is found.

Should my group status be public or private?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:31:00 GMT

Groups can be kept completely private which means unless a member chooses through his “Setup Preferences” section to view matches outside the project, every member of your group will only see their matches only within the project. Setting the group to public means the default setting for your group members will be to see matches within the entire Family Tree DNA database, unless the member chooses only to see matches in the group. If a member does not sign his or her release form, these settings will not apply to them and they will see no matches at all.

Making the group status public will allow finding matches outside of your surname project. Many people found that their paternal lines were not the ones they thought, and adopted people or descendants from an adopted male were able to find their biological paternal line because they matched people that set their results to match against the entire database.

How do I know which of my members have tested with the Genographic Project?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

Individuals who transfer their results from the Genographic Project to Family Tree DNA have kit numbers that begin with the letter “N”.

Should my members add their results to the Genographic Project? How much does it cost?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

For individuals who have exact matches in the project, it is advised that only one person upload their results. The cost to upload one test result to the National Geographic Genographic Project database is $15.

How can I view member passwords?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

We do not show members’ passwords to the Group Administrator because there are settings in the “Setup Preferences” section, like the bulk email option, that must be selected by the participant only.

What if a member forgets his or her password?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:33:15 GMT

If a member misplaces his or her password and requests it from you, you can a) direct the member to the home page where there is a link "Forgot the password?" nect to the Login area, or b) forward the email to info at familytreedna.com and we will send the password to the member.

What is a GEDCOM?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:45:53 GMT

A GEDCOM is a common file format that allows genealogists to exchange information about their ancestors. A GEDCOM file can be created using genealogy software that allows you to export your data in GEDCOM format. Your group members will have the opportunity to upload their own GEDCOM files to their personal pages. This will allow other matches to review their direct paternal or maternal line (depending on the test).

You can find about using your GEDCOM at your software here: http://www.familytreedna.com/about-gedcom.aspx or you can use this page to create one: http://www.rogerarrick.com/yged/ftdna.html

Should all members take a Deep Clade SNP test?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

Not all members of your group will need to have a Deep Clade SNP test. If there are one or two groups of men in your project who all closely match each other, then only one of those men needs a Deep Clade SNP test performed. All the other men that match his results will also belong to the same sub-clade. If there are samples that can no longer be collected (i.e. the participant is no longer alive) we recommend having anyone that matches that person have the Deep Clade test performed on that sample instead, as the test can require large amounts of DNA.

Should members with no haplogroup assignment take a Backbone test?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:47:58 GMT

In order to provide our customers with the highest level of haplogroup confidence, Family Tree DNA is now providing a SNP Assurance Program. In this program, if we cannot predict a person’s Y-DNA haplogroup with sufficient confidence to match the standards required to join the National Geographic’s Genographic Project, we will automatically perform a Backbone SNP test in order to identify the haplogroup assignment. When a haplogroup is in doubt, the Backbone SNP test will be ordered automatically after the initial Y-DNA test results are posted. You can learn more about the SNP Assurance Program here: http://www.familytreedna.com/snp-assurance-program.aspx. Members will still have the option to order a Backbone SNP test if they choose from their personal pages.

What is the FTDNATiP Calculator, and how do I use it?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:50:51 GMT

FTDNATiP™ is the world's first program that incorporates specific mutation rates that have been proven to differ across markers, which greatly increases the power and precision of estimates of Time to the Most Recent Common Ancestor (TMRCA). More about it can be seen here: http://www.familytreedna.com/faq-tip.aspx

How do I start a project?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:51:28 GMT

Starting a project is very easy to do, and involves no additional cost. We have no project set-up fee and we offer free analysis of the results. As a registered surname project at Family Tree DNA, your project will receive project pricing and a set of tools for the Group Administrator plus automatic matching notifications. Email support at familytreedna.com with questions about starting a group project. Remember, DNA is the Gene in Genealogy!

How do I start a project?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:39:41 GMT

How do I start a project?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:39:59 GMT

What is a Surname Project?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:53:33 GMT

A Surname Project traces members of a family that share a common surname. Since surnames are passed down from father to son like the Y-chromosome, this test is for males taking Y-DNA tests. Females do not carry their father’s Y-DNA and most acquire their father's surname or a new surname by way of marriage, so the tested individual must be a male that wants to check his direct paternal line (see http://www.familytreedna.com/inheritance-chart.aspx for more information on direct lines) with a Y-DNA12, Y-DNA25, Y-DNA37, or Y-DNA67 marker test. Females who would like to check their direct paternal line can have a male relative with this surname order a Y-DNA test. Females and males can also order an mtDNA test for themselves such as the mtDNA or the mtDNAPlus test and participate in one or more mtDNA project.

What is a Geographic Project?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:53:55 GMT

A Geographic Project connects individuals who believe their direct line comes from a specific location. We have three different types of Geographic Projects: Y-DNA, mtDNA, and Dual Geographic Projects. Y-DNA Geographic Projects are for males only as only males can take the Y-DNA test. This project is for males who order a Y-DNA test and whose direct paternal line (see http://www.familytreedna.com/inheritance-chart.aspx for more on direct lines) originates in this area. Females whose direct paternal line originates in this area can have a male relative test for this project or they can look into the mtDNA tests and mtDNA projects. The mtDNA Geographic Projects are for individuals who order an mtDNA test and whose direct maternal line originates in this area. Both males and females can participate in these projects with an mtDNA test. The Dual Geographic Projects are for individuals who order an mtDNA or Y-DNA test. Either their direct maternal line or direct paternal line originates in this area.

What is an mtDNA Lineage Project?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:54:10 GMT

An mtDNA Lineage Project connects individuals who believe their direct maternal line (see http://www.familytreedna.com/inheritance-chart.aspx for more on direct lines) comes from a specific female. The mtDNA Lineage Projects are for individuals who order an mtDNA test and whose direct maternal line originates in that female. Both males and females can order the mtDNA test and participate in these projects.

What is a Haplogroup Project?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:55:33 GMT

Your Family Tree DNA results include a haplogroup designation. Haplogroup Projects provide a place for individuals with the same haplogroup to connect with one another. One way to think about haplogroups is as major branches on the family tree of Homo Sapiens. These haplogroup branches characterize the early migrations of population groups. Since Y-DNA and mtDNA haplogroups are separate so are Y-DNA Haplogroup Projects and mtDNA Haplogroup Projects. You will not see these projects listed on our public site, only on your personal page, because you must already have results in order to join this type of project. To check to see if there is a project for your haplogroup log on with your kit number and password and click on the square blue “join” button near the top of the page. For more information on haplogroups please see http://www.familytreedna.com/understanding-haplogroups.aspx.

Why should I participate in a project?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

Projects are designed to help individuals who may have similar ancestry connect with one another. If you want are looking for relevant matches or are interested in comparing against others and sharing information to learn more by working together then you should consider participating in a Surname, Geographic, or Lineage Project.

How can I participate in a project?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:06:30 GMT

Participation is simple. If you have not tested before, just select the project you wish to join, either through the “Search a DNA Project” box or by browsing through the list of projects at http://www.familytreedna.com/projects.aspx. Then click on the title of the project you are interested in. You will see information on the project and below that you will either be able to fill out an order form or a Join Request. If you have already tested and want to join a project you can click on the "Join Project" link on your Family Tree DNA personal page - there you can browse and search projects to join.

How does project participation affect my privacy?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:58:38 GMT

The Group Administrator can see your results and some of the information listed on your personal page such as your contact information. The Group Administrator will not be able to see your password. Projects often set up a website on which member results are posted. How these results are identified is up to the Group Administrator. They are often listed by the participant’s oldest known ancestor, kit number, or last name. Therefore, other than the Group Administrator, nobody else will see your private information.

Will participating in a project limit my results?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:58:59 GMT

Project participation will not limit your results. If you choose to join a project you will be able to choose between comparing just against your project or comparing against the entire database. You can change this at will from the User Preferences portion of your personal page where your online results are listed.

How does project participation affect my privacy?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:40:15 GMT

How many projects can I join?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:59:54 GMT

We do not restrict the number of projects a member can join.

Who are the Group Administrators of projects?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:00:35 GMT

Group Administrators are unpaid volunteers who have an interest in a particular surname, lineage, or region. They have access to tools to help you compare your results against the rest of your group and can also help coordinate between members. To find out who your Group Administrator is, first look to see whether their is a "View the Group page" link on your Family Tree DNA personal page. If so, follow this link. If not, you can look up your project at http://www.familytreedna.com/projects.aspx and visit the project website or click “Contact the Group Administrator.”

What is the cost to join or test in a project?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:05:28 GMT

There is no cost to join a project. In fact, there is a group rate that you qualify for when you order a Y-DNA test through a project. To order a test through a group project you can browse or search our project listings at http://www.familytreedna.com/projects.aspx. If you have already tested and want to join a project you can do so from your Family Tree DNA personal page. Click on the "Join Project" link and browse or search available groups. Once you select a group make sure you click the Join button below it to confirm.

I’ve already tested—how do I join or remove myself from a project?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:04:07 GMT

Once your results are posted online you will be able to join or remove yourself from group projects at will from your personal page where your results are displayed. To join a project, click on the "Join Project" link. To remove yourself from a project click on the “X” symbol to the right of the name of the project you wish to leave.

What happens to my results if I decide to leave a project?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

Your results are not affected by project participation or by the decision not to participate in a project.

What if my surname or region is not listed?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

As people moved from place to place surnames evolved into different spellings. Don't overlook the fact that your surname may have a variant spelling. When searching for a DNA project to join, look to see if one of the various spellings of your surname is listed. Geographic Projects may also be listed in a variety of ways. For example, some are listed by country, some are listed by region, and some are listed by county. If you do not see the project for you, we encourage you to start your own Surname or Geographic Project.

Why am I being asked to fill out a Join Request?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

The administrator has chosen to approve participation to the group before you can join this project. All you need to do is include your name, email address, and why you are interested in joining the group. For example, you may wish to join a group because your direct paternal line is from that particular region and you know your ancestry back six generations, but would like to know more.

What type of ancestry do I have?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:10:16 GMT

The Y-DNA test traces your father’s father’s father’s direct paternal line without any influence from spouses along that line (see http://www.familytreedna.com/tc.html). The test determines the single ancestral origin, such as Native American, African, Asian, or European. To learn about the origin of your Y-DNA, look at the haplogroup listed in the Y-DNA Haplogroup section. For the paternal line,Haplogroups C3 and Q3 are found in individuals of Native American origin. Haplogroups A, B, and E are found in individuals of African origin. A number of other haplogroups are found in people of Asian and European origins. You can read a description of where your haplogroup is from by going to the Frequency Map at the Haplotree section of your personal page.

How do I tell if I have Jewish ancestry?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:11:40 GMT

Judaism is a religion and not an attribute that can be defined by a DNA mutation, but we can give you hints about having Jewish ancestry by comparing your results against our database. There are 4 situations we can run into when testing for Jewish ancestry: • You match only people who are also Jewish on their direct paternal line -- in other words the signature, or "motif," only matches with people who have known Jewish ancestry. The answer in this case is clear. • Your motif matches both Jewish and non Jewish lineages—the answer is not clear and we cannot guess whether or not your personal lineage is Jewish. • You match no one of known Jewish origins—the answer is also clear: you are unlikely to have Jewish origins on this lineage. • You have no matches in our system at all which means that we have never seen your specific results. We will know more about your ancestry when you start matching others. Look in the Ancestral Origins section to see whether or not the people you match have listed Jewish ancestry. Those in our Jewish database have a listing in the "Comments" column denoting Jewish ancestry.

What does the Cohen Match badge on my personal page mean?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

This indicates that your results match the results associated with Cohanim ancestry, called the Cohanim Modal Haplotype. You can read more about these results and how this haplotype was discovered by clicking on the badge. If you have an oral tradition of being Cohanim, then you most likely are genetically a Cohen. If you have no oral tradition of Cohanim ancestry, but your ancestors were Jewish, then you certainly appear to come from the same genetic pool, and while not being directly descended from the line of Aaron, you could have descended from one of his numerous male relatives. If you do not have any history of Jewish ancestry, your deepest ancestor was most likely part of the Neolithic farming expansion that began about 9,500 years ago from the Fertile Crescent. We believe that our 25 marker test provides enough information to separate the Neolithic farmers from more recent migrations of Jews out of the Middle East which happened in the last 2,000 years. If you match the Cohanim genetic signature you will find the badge below your name and kit number when you first access your results.

How can I tell if my line is Cohanim?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:13:14 GMT

The first thing to look for is a badge with two hands and the words “Cohen Match” on it in the upper left hand corner when you log on to your personal page. This indicates that you match the set of results associated with Cohanim ancestry, known as the Cohanim Modal Haplotype. If you do not see this, your line is most likely not genetically Cohanim in origin. However, this does not mean that your line is not of Jewish ancestry.

What does the Niall of the Nine Hostages badge on my personal page mean?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

This indicates that your line matches the results associated with the lineage of Niall of the Nine Hostages, a famous Irish warlord. You can read more about these results and how this haplotype was discovered by clicking on the badge. If you match the Niall haplotype you will find the badge below your name and kit number when you first access your results.

What does the WAMH badge on my personal page mean?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

This indicates that your line matches the results associated with the Western Atlantic Modal Haplotype. The WAMH is a group of the most common results found in the most common European haplogroup, R1b. You can read more about these results and what it means to be WAMH by clicking on the badge. If you match the WAMH signature you will find the badge below your name and kit number when you first access your results.

What does the Genghis Khan badge on my personal page mean?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

This indicates that your line matches the results associated with the lineage of Genghis Khan, the famous Mongolian ruler. You can read more about these results by clicking on the badge. If you match Genghis Khan’s signature you will find the badge below your name and kit number when you first access your results.

Where did my ancestors come from?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:14:31 GMT

There are two places to look for the answer to this question. The first is your haplogroup, which is identified and described for you in your Y-DNA Haplogroup section. The second place to look is in our Ancestral Origins database. In this section we list the countries of origin reported to us by others who have the same or similar results as you. This list does not represent places where your ancestors have been so much as places where your DNA signature can be found today. It can provide a guide to the possibilities of where your ancestors come from. If you have few matches, this list will not be statistically representative, and you will need to wait until more people are added to the database (several thousands are added every month).

Why do I have matches with different surnames?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:17:01 GMT

There are two reasons you may have a match with someone with a different surname. It may be that you are distantly connected, from a time before surnames were in common use. You may see a large quantity of different surname is the 12-marker matches section. Or, it may be that there was a surname change on one of the lines. This can happen for many reasons such as an adoption or false paternity event, or the surname itself may have been changed, just to name a few possibilities. In this case, you may see those matches in the 25, 37 or 67 marker matches. For those matches at a higher number of markers, contacting your matches is a great way to learn more.

What does it mean if I match someone with the same surname as me?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

This means you might have a relevant match. Because the Y-chromosome is passed down from father to son just like last names, the Y-DNA test often follows a surname. If you share a common last name with your match you might share a common ancestor as well. The best way to find out is to contact your match.

What should I do with my matches?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:18:01 GMT

Your matches - especially the matches at 25, 37 or 67 markers - are important links to possible clues about your own family tree, so it is a good idea to contact them and respond to their inquiries. You can view the names and email addresses of your matches on the Y-DNA Matches section. You will receive an email notification from Family Tree DNA every time you receive a new match.

Why do I match someone with a surname from my mother’s side?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

This is a coincidence. The Y-DNA looks only at your direct paternal line (www.familytreedna.com/tc.html). No ancestry from your mother’s side or anyone outside of your direct paternal line is reflected by the Y-DNA test.

What is a one-step mutation, two-step mutation, etc?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:21:17 GMT

Each step is one mutation, or difference, and is one step further from an exact match. For example, if someone matches you on 11 of 12 markers tested, this person is a one-step mutation from you and probably still shared a common ancestor with you, but in a more distant time-frame than an exact 12 of 12 marker match. A two-step mutation would be a 10 of 12 marker match and would be even more distant. A two-step mutation might also mean that one marker has mutated twice. You can learn more about what these matches mean by checking the FTDNATiP report on your Y-DNA Matches section or by checking here: http://www.familytreedna.com/reading-and-comparing-test-results.aspx.

What is genetic distance?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

Genetic distance is the number of differences, or mutations, between two sets of results. For example, if two men test DYS # 393 and one of them scores a 12 and the other is a 13, but their results are otherwise identical, there is a genetic distance of one and they are a one-step mutation match. However, if the first man scores an 11 and the second scores a 13, then there are two mutations on the same marker, so the genetic distance is two.

What do my matches mean?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:22:29 GMT

A match or near-match with another person in our database, especially in the 25, 37 and 67 markers level, means that you and that person most likely shared a common ancestor within a genealogical time-frame. You can use the FTDNATiP report to learn how you might be connected or check here for more information: http://www.familytreedna.com/reading-and-comparing-test-results.aspx

Why do I have so many matches?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:23:59 GMT

If you have a large number of matches you may have a more common Y-DNA signature in our database. This can mean that your lineage has survived and reproduced well, and as a result, many people share the same signature. As our database continues to grow you may continue to receive additional matches. You might choose to test additional markers to refine your list of matches to those that are more relevant, meaning those with whom you share a common ancestor in a more recent time.

Why don’t I have any matches?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

If you do not have any matches, you may be the first person with your particular Y-DNA sequence in our database. This can mean that your result is relatively rare and that, as a result, few people have it. It can also mean that no one else from your particular lineage has happened to test yet. In both cases, the good news is that our database is constantly growing. As the database grows, you will continue to be compared against new results and will be notified of new matches by email. You can also upload your results to Ysearch. Ysearch is a public database that allows individuals who have tested with different companies to compare results. This provides additional possibilities for finding matches. To upload your results to Ysearch, go to the Y-DNA Matches section and click the link labeled "Click here to upload to ysearch.org."

How do I tell how closely I am related to a match?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:26:36 GMT

You can use FTDNATiP, Family Tree DNA’s Time Predictor, to help you determine how closely you are related to a match. Look to the right of your match’s email address on the Y-DNA Matches section and you will see a dark blue button with an orange pedigree line running through it. Click on this to determine how likely you and a match are to share a common ancestor. You can learn more about the FTDNATiP here: http://www.familytreedna.com/faq-tip.aspx

Should I email my match?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:28:09 GMT

Especially in the case of high resolution matches (Y-DNA25, 37 or 37, and mtDNAPlus) if you think that there is a possibility that you can pinpoint your common ancestor between you and one of your matches, or even if you just want to try to find a common ancestor, by all means, contact them. Don’t be shy about emailing your matches. They provide their email addresses because they want to be contacted!

What do I do if one of my matches emails me?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:29:09 GMT

In order to maximize the amount of information you can access, it is important to be in touch with the people in your list of matches. If you are contacted by a match, you may want to email them back, try to determine if you can pinpoint a common ancestor, and perhaps share genealogical information with them. Even if to tell that there is no possibility for the two of you being related, as a matter of courtesy you may consider e-mailing back.

Why isn’t my name in my matches list?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:40:25 GMT

Your name is not listed because you are not being compared against yourself. Only the names of others will be listed in your matches.

What is FTDNATiP?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:44:37 GMT

Family Tree DNA’s Time Predictor is a program used to calculate estimates of Time to the Most Recent Common Ancestor (TMRCA). It is the world's first calculator that incorporates mutation rates specific to each marker. This greatly increases the power and precision of estimates. You can learn more about FTDNATiP by clicking on the 'TiP' link from your Y-DNA matching page.

Why are there more matches in the Recent Ancestral Origins section than in the Y-DNA Matches section?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:47:33 GMT

The Recent Ancestral Origins section compares you against the entire database and lists what others with similar results to you have entered for their country of origin. This includes research participants who are not FTDNA customers and are not listed on the Y-DNA Matches section. You may also have some matches that have not signed the release form or chosen not to compare against the entire database or on that number of markers. They will also not be listed on your Y-DNA Matches page. As a result, it is possible to have a different number of entries on the Recent Ancestral Origins section and the Y-DNA Matches section.

Why do some of my matches show “United States”?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

The Recent Ancestral Origins section lists the country of origin reported to us by the people that you match. This country of origin is meant to be the country your paternal ancestors (http://www.familytreedna.com/tc.html) came from before any migrations to the Americas. However, some individuals instead enter the country of birth for themselves or a more recent ancestor. You should treat these entries as "Unknown Origin" unless your Y-DNA test result indicates Native American ancestry on your paternal line.

Why are so many different countries listed?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:52:20 GMT

Similar DNA results tend to be found in a range of countries in the same geographic area. Some results are common enough that they have spread out throughout a very large region or a continent over the millennia. If, for example, you match people from countries located throughout Europe, you happen to have a DNA result which is found in all of these places. The best way to narrow down the list is to test more markers until th results yield only a small range of countries. This can help determine which matches are most relevant to you.

Why isn’t my ancestor’s country of origin listed?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

The Recent Ancestral Origins section is a comparison of your results against others in the database. It lets you see what others with similar results to you entered for their country of origin. If you entered a country of origin it will be listed on the pages of the individuals with similar results to you.

What does the “Count” mean?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:56:44 GMT

The “Count” column represents the number of people of this description in our database whom you match. For example, if under the "Country" column it says England and under the "Count" column says 16, this means that there are 16 people who have tested with us who match your result and have reported England as their paternal country of origin. Higher counts may mean a higher chance that your ancestors come from that region, but keep in mind that more people with ancestry from some countries may have tested than from others. Therefore it's important to see the number behind the country name that lists how many people from each country have reported to us where they are from. You will also see a % on the far right of this page, which tells you how common your DNA signature is from each of the countries that you have matches.

What does the number in parentheses mean on my Recent Ancestral Origins Page?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:58:31 GMT

This column represents the total number of people in our database that have entered this country as tier country of origin. For example, if under this column it says (180), it means that there are 180 people in the database who have tested with us and entered this country as their paternal country of origin. You may see that some countries have many more entries than others.

What does “Comments” mean on my Recent Ancestral Origins page?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 15:01:16 GMT

The “Comments” column on your Recent Ancestral Origins Page provides a space for additional ancestral information. For example, one may denote tribal origin, region within a country, or Jewish origin in this field. This can help give you additional information about your matches when available. Family Tree DNA does not show you what you are not, rather we use this column to tell you what your likely origin is, therefore if you are wondering if you are Native American on the lineage tested but the comments and countries indicate Europe as your matches country of origin then you are not Native American on this direct lineage.

What is my haplogroup?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 15:23:42 GMT

You can find your haplogroup assignment in the Haplotree section of your Family Tree DNA personal page. Most of the time we can confidently predict your haplogroup with no need for a haplogroup test. If your haplogroup has not been tested, you will see the words My Predicted Haplogroup: (i.e. R1b1b2) as your prediction and also the scientific 'Shorthand' ( i.e. R-M269). If your haplogroup has been tested then you will see My Confirmed Haplogroup which has the same nomenclature as mentioned in the prior sentence. If we are unable to predict your Haplogroup then you qualify for our SNP Assurance program and we will be re-running your sample to provide you a haplogroup designation at no charge. This usually takes about 3 weeks. A description of your haplogroup is listed by clicking the link 'Migration Map' on your Haplotree page and then clicking on the letter we have predicted your lineage to descend from. For a more detailed explanation of haplogroups, please check here: www.familytreedna.com/understanding-haplogroups.aspx. A more general section on Haplogroups please see: http://www.familytreedna.com/snps-r-us.aspx

Is my haplogroup predicted or confirmed?

Family Tree DNA — Mon, 04 May 2009 14:34:32 GMT

To determine whether your haplogroup has been predicted or confirmed with additional testing, check the Haplotree page (from your personal page) and at the top of the chart you will see 'My Predicted Haplogroup' or 'My Confirmed Haplogroup'. If your haplogroup is being tested you will see either a notation of 'Testing in Progress' or an orange bar titled “Haplogroup”. If your haplogroup has not been tested you will not see this information. In most cases, it is not necessary to confirm your haplogroup with testing as we can usually predict it with an exceptionally high degree of confidence. In order to provide our customers with the highest level of haplogroup confidence, Family Tree DNA provides a SNP Assurance Program. In this program, if we cannot predict a person’s Y-DNA haplogroup with extreme confidence that would allow can you to join the National Geographic’s Genographic Project, we will automatically perform a Backbone SNP test in order to identify the haplogroup assignment. When a haplogroup is in doubt the Backbone SNP test will be ordered automatically after the initial Y-DNA test results are posted. You can learn more about the SNP Assurance Program here.

Why do I see more than one haplogroup listed on the Haplogroup page?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 15:43:49 GMT

Information is automatically displayed for your comparison for every haplogroup that is identical or close to your Y DAN profile. Because of evolutionary convergence you have have multiple haplogroups 'near' you, genetically, however you can only be part of one haplogroup. As a result, you will sometimes see multiple haplogroups displayed even though you only belong to one haplogroup. To determine which haplogroup you belong to, look at the line 'My Predicted or My Confirmed Haplogroup'. This is the haplogroup that is relevant to you.

Don’t we all go back to Africa?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

Yes, all of our Y-DNA lineages trace back to a common ancestor who lived in Africa over 60,000 years ago. Some lineages migrated out of Africa about 60,000 years ago, while others remained. Lineages that historically remained in Africa include Y-DNA haplogroups A, B, and parts of E. Lineages that historically migrated out of Africa developed into the other haplogroups.

What is the Y-DNA Haplogroup Chart?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 15:52:18 GMT

The Y-DNA haplogroup chart is a graphic representation of the Y-DNA phylogenetic tree. (A Phylogeny is a theoretical diagram of how evolution took place for a specific species). It shows the Y-DNA haplogroups according to the Y Chromosome Consortium’s classification. Haplogroup names and major clades are labeled with large capital letters. Sub-designations are then added with numbers foloowd by small letters (ex. R1b1b2) Mutation names are given along the branches of the tree. The chart is 25” x 38” and can be ordered from the “Order Tests & Upgrades” link form your personal page. You can view this full color chart here: http://www.familytreedna.com/pdf-docs/2009-Y-Chromosome-Phylogenetic-Tree.pdf

What do the letters and numbers under “SNP Tests” mean?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 15:56:20 GMT

If you have tested your haplogroup or deep clade, you will see a series of letters and numbers listed under the “SNP Tests” category on your Haplogroup and Y-DNA DYS Values pages. These are the individual mutations that define the haplogroups you were tested for. If you see a plus (+) sign after a SNP, then that indicates that you are positive for that SNP. If you see a (-) sign after a SNP, then that means that you are negative for that SNP and do not belong to that haplogroup or deep clade. Your haplogroup or deep clade designation will be listed on the top of the dynamic chart on your Haplotree page.

What do the numbers in the Y-DNA DYS section mean?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:18:23 GMT

The numbers found on this page are the key to comparisons made between males in our database. The Y-DNA markers are displayed in this section. You will see that the first column is for the loci, the second for the DYS number (that's Designated Y chromosome Segment) and the third for alleles (which are the values we use for comparison). This is how we present the results that are determined from your sample. The loci is the location within the Y-DNA 12, or 25, 37 or 67 markers that we test, and the DYS number is the name assigned to that particular location on your Y Chromosome that we have tested. Everyone who tests will be tested for the same loci and DYS numbers. The allele values, which represent your results, are the numbers that are unique to you and are used in the comparison against others.

What is a locus?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:20:36 GMT

Loucs come from the Latin word for 'place'. When testing participants’ Y-DNA, the lab examines the same locations in the Y-DNA sequence for everyone. These locations are called loci.(Locus is singular whereas Loci is plural) You can have 12 loci tested, 25 loci tested, 37 loci tested or 67 loci tested. Whichever test you have, those same locations will be tested for everyone who chooses that same test.

What is a DYS number?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:22:00 GMT

The DYS number (that's Designated Y chromosome Segment) is the name for the marker at a particular location. Location #1, the first location that is tested, is named DYS # 393.

What is an allele?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:28:27 GMT

An allele is a DNA sequence that repeats at a certain location (or place) on the Y chromosome. The allele value is the number of times the sequence repeats. Pronounced uh-LEEL. For example if the repeat is GATA and you find GATAGATAGATAGATA then the allele's value is 4 in this example and it's used to compare your value to other men who have ben tested for this location on their Y Chromosome.

Why is my haplogroup listed in red on the Surnames Projects web page?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:35:42 GMT

Your haplogroup is listed in red because it has been predicted by comparing your 12 marker results to a database of individuals who have had additional testing to confirm their haplogroup assignment. Because males who share the same allele values share a common male ancestor, and this ancestor can only belong to one haplogroup, males who have the same or very similar Y-DNA typically belong to the same haplogroup. Your haplogroup is shown in red because the haplogroup assignment was determined using this predictive method. If it's listed in green, or if you are shown next to someone who is listed in green on the Surname project web site then that other persons Y DNA has been confirmed.

Why is my 389-2 result different in Family Tree DNA from the Genographic Project?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 07 May 2009 17:16:02 GMT

Marker 389 is a special marker because we can test it in two parts, both of which are very useful for genealogy. The first test looks at the first part of marker 389, and we call the marker tested 389-1. The second test looks at the entire marker, including the first section. In order to find out the results for the second half of the marker by itself, we must subtract the result for the first half from the result of the whole marker.

There are two ways to display the result of the second test on marker 389. In both cases, the name for the marker is 389-2. The first way to display the result is by showing the result from the original test, which is the total for the entire 389 marker, including the first section. This is how Family Tree DNA displays the result.

The second way is to show the result only for the second section that is tested by subtracting the 389-1 score from the original second test score. This is how the Genographic Project displays the result.

Basically, converting between the two is easy: simply add together the two 389 values from the Genographic Project to get the 389-2 value for Family Tree DNA, or subtract the 389-1 value from 389-2 from the Family Tree DNA results in order to get the 389-2 value for the Genographic Project.

What does each marker mean?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:47:15 GMT

The markers themselves do not have any particular meaning. The value of testing these markers comes from comparing them to a database. Family Tree DNA has the largest database of this kind in the world. Males with the same or similar results share a common male ancestor in the past. The more markers tested and the stronger the profile between tow people to more recently these two people likely share a common male ancestor.

What is a SNP?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:48:29 GMT

A SNP, or Single Nucleotide Polymorphism, is a change in your Y-DNA sequence at a location other than those in the 12, 25, 37, and 67 marker tests. SNPS are unique to specific haplogroups so SNP tests such as the Backbone and Deep SNP tests are used to identify haplogroups and their subclades respectively. Haplogroups, defined by SNP's are the branches of the tree of mankind.

What are mutations? Are they bad?!

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:52:03 GMT

Mutations are natural copying errors. A good analogy is to think of a copy machine which is making many copies of a page. Every once in a while it will make a mistake; an 'e' might look more like an ''o, for example. This is a "mutation." If you then take that page with the 'o' and copy it, it will pass on its "mutation" to all of its descendent copies. These Y-DNA mutations do not provide medical or physiological information, but they can help you learn more about your ancestry.

How many generations ago does the Y-DNA test trace?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:53:12 GMT

Because Y-DNA is passed down from the father to the son intact for many generations, the answer is that the test can cover both recent and distant generations. On the recent side, the Recent Ancestral Origins section will point towards possible countries of origin. If you have few matches, this list will not be statistically representative, and you therefore will need to wait until more people are added to the database (several thousand are added every month). The Y-DNA test also identifies the haplogroup, which represents your deep ancestral origins (think tens of thousands of years ago).

Why doesn’t this show me percentages?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:55:29 GMT

You received your Y-DNA from your father, who got it from his father, who got it from his father, and so on. Since mothers do not have Y-chromosomes to pass down in any generation, testing the Y-DNA allows us to trace your paternal line (http://www.familytreedna.com/inheritance-chart.aspx), but no other. This means that any ancestry from your mother’s side, father's mother’s side, grandfather's mother’s side, and so on, is not represented in your Y-DNA. As a result, tracing this line can only lead to one origin, and doesn't provide any breakdown of various ethnic origins that may have come from other ancestors of yours.

How many markers have I tested?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:56:46 GMT

You can determine how many markers you have results for by going to the Y-DNA DYS Values section. Here you will see the results for all the markers you have tested. If you have a Pending Lab Results section check here to see if you have other markers that are in the process of being tested. Outstanding results are also listed on the Pending Results link on your personal page.

What is a Deep Clade test?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:02:34 GMT

A haplogroup test will test a single SNP to determine which haplogroup, or major branch of the Y-DNA phylogenetic tree, your paternal line belongs to. For a more detailed explanation of haplogroups, please check here: http://www.familytreedna.com/understanding-haplogroups.aspx. Once your haplogroup is known or predicted, you can use a Deep SNP test to identify the other SNP mutations that occurred in order to find your twig on the Y-DNA tree. You can read more about Family Tree DNA Deep SNP tests here: http://www.familytreedna.com/deepclade-haplogroup-tests.aspx.

What is a Y-DNA Backbone test?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:04:52 GMT

A Backbone test determines which haplogroup, or major branch of the Y-DNA tree, your paternal line belongs to. It tests the “backbone” of the tree or the SNPs that determine the major branches. For a more detailed explanation of haplogroups, please check here: http://www.familytreedna.com/understanding-haplogroups.aspx. In order to provide our customers with the highest level of haplogroup confidence, Family Tree DNA provides a SNP Assurance Program. In this program, if we cannot predict a person’s Y-DNA haplogroup with extreme confidence that they can join the National Geographic’s Genographic Project, we will automatically perform a Backbone SNP test in order to identify the haplogroup assignment. When a haplogroup is in doubt the Backbone SNP test will be ordered automatically after the initial Y-DNA test results are posted. You can learn more about the SNP Assurance Program here: http://www.familytreedna.com/snp-assurance-program.aspx. Members will still have the option to order a Backbone SNP test if they choose from their personal pages.

Do I need a haplogroup test?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:07:35 GMT

Most individuals do not need a test to confirm their haplogroup. In some rare cases, a Y-DNA signature may be unique in our database. You can determine your haplogroup information from the Haplogroup section. In order to provide our customers with the highest level of haplogroup confidence, Family Tree DNA provides a SNP Assurance Program. In this program, if we cannot predict a person’s Y-DNA haplogroup with sufficient confidence that they can join the National Geographic’s Genographic Project, we will automatically perform a Backbone SNP test in order to identify the haplogroup assignment. When a haplogroup is in doubt the Backbone SNP test will be ordered automatically after the initial Y-DNA test results are posted. You can learn more about the SNP Assurance Program here: http://www.familytreedna.com/snp-assurance-program.aspx. Members will still have the option to order a Backbone SNP test if they choose from their personal pages. Deep Clade testing can be very valuable for those who are not certain of there deeper ancestry and is the logical next step once your placement on one of the major branches of the tree has been determined.

How do I test my haplogroup to determine the sub-branch of the tree of mankind i descend from??

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:13:18 GMT

If you decide to test your haplogroup you can order the test either online or over the phone at 713-868-1438. To order your test online, go to the Haplotree section or to the link that says Order Upgrades and Refinements from your personal page. Here you will be able to read about the available test as well as order this test for yourself. In order to provide our customers with the highest level of haplogroup confidence, Family Tree DNA is now providing a SNP Assurance Program. In this program, if we cannot predict a person’s Y-DNA haplogroup with sufficient confidence that they can join the National Geographic’s Genographic Project, we will automatically perform a Backbone SNP test in order to identify the haplogroup assignment. When a haplogroup is in doubt the Backbone SNP test will be ordered automatically after the initial Y-DNA test results are posted. You can learn more about the SNP Assurance Program here: http://www.familytreedna.com/snp-assurance-program.aspx. Members will still have the option to order a Backbone SNP test if they choose from their personal pages.

Should I test more markers?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:14:39 GMT

You should test more markers when you want to compare additional markers against others with similar results to you. The additional markers do not provide information about the geographic or deep origin of your paternal line. They are used to compare against others and refine your matches for genealogical purposes. They can also help refine the matches in your Recent Ancestral Origins section. If you do not have many matches at this time or many matches that have tested more markers, you may still choose to test more markers. That way, as the database grows and you gain additional matches, you will be prepared to make more refined comparisons.

Should I order the Y-DNA Haplogroup Chart?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:16:09 GMT

The Y-DNA haplogroup chart is a graphic representation of the Y-DNA phylogenetic tree. It shows the Y-DNA haplogroups according to the Y Chromosome Consortium’s (YCC) classification. For more information on the chart see What is the Y-DNA Haplogroup chart? Should you want your own copy of this chart you may order one from the “Order Tests” link. The chart is a 4 color 24 * 36 Graphical representation of how evolution took place for the males of our species.

How do I order a kit?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:18:38 GMT

Once you have decided which kit to order, you can place your order through the Family Tree DNA website at http://www.familytreedna.com/products.aspx or by speaking to any representative at our office at (713) 868-1438. To order through a surname project, please go to the main website at http://www.ftdna.com and enter in the name of the surname project in the box in the upper right-hand corner of the page that is labeled “Search Surname ” and click “submit”. This will produce a list of projects, if any, that include the surname you searched for. Click the appropriate project an you will either be taken to an order form or, if the group is a private group, a join-request form. If the group is private, you will have to submit the join request to the group administrator, who will then contact you with directions for ordering a kit through the project if you are accepted into their group.

Once I’ve placed my order, how long will the kit take to reach me?

Family Tree DNA — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 15:11:28 GMT

Once the order has been placed, kits are mailed regular first class mail the next business day from our Houston, TX location. United States Postal Service transit time for first class mail is usually 3-5 business days, but may vary depending on your location (domestically it should not take longer than ten business days). Please keep in mind that international orders can take several weeks to arrive.

Can I have my kit delivered sooner?

Family Tree DNA — Tue, 05 May 2009 15:52:27 GMT

Of course! We do have a Federal Express next day or three day delivery mailing option. To order a kit for express delivery, you must place the order over the phone at (713) 868-1438 and request that the kit be sent using next day or three day delivery. Next day deliver is $25 and three day is $15.

My kit was lost in the mail, what do I do?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:20:21 GMT

If your kit does not arrive within 10 business days of placing your order, please call our office at (713) 868-1438 or email us at info@familytreedna.com. Have your kit number ready and we will have a replacement kit sent to you the next day. (Your kit number was included in the email we sent you after you placed your on-line order).

I lost my kit, what do I do?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

If you accidentally misplace or destroy your kit, please call our office at (713) 868-1438 or email info@familytreedna.com. Have your kit number ready and we will have a replacement kit sent to you the next day.

I tested with the Genographic Project; why are you offering me the haplogroup test?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:21:42 GMT

Our system is automatically programmed to offer a haplogroup test or Deep SNP test to individuals whose haplogroup has not yet been tested. Because the Genographic Project was able to predict your haplogroup with high confidence, it was not necessary to perform a haplogroup test on your sample. However, the haplogroup or Deep Clade test is made available to you if you wish to have your sample tested to confirm a sub-haplogroup assignment.

I tested with the Genographic Project; why are you offering me the haplogroup test?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:40:29 GMT

Why are my results late?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:24:04 GMT

If your results do not arrive by their expected target date, this indicates that the laboratory is having to re-run the sample to get a clear and unambiguous result. This is a normal part of the laboratory process and occurs about 10-15% of the time. The reason we sent you multiple swabs was to ensure that the lab would-be able to obtain your results without you having to receive more swabs in the mail.

Are my results being rerun?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:25:29 GMT

If more than a week went by from the targeted date without your results being posted, it means that most probably we did not get a result on the first pass during the sequencing process. From our lab's experience this happens about 10 - 15% of the time. Your first extracted swab is being rerun and the reuslst should be available in 1 or 2 weeks.

Why are my results being re-run?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

We will run your sample again if the first test does not provide clear and unambiguous results. This can happen for a number of reasons such as a poor scrape or unclear results on one or more markers.

My results are being re-run. Does this mean I need to submit a new DNA sample?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

We will contact you and request additional samples if necessary. This is only necessary if we have exhausted the samples that you have already provided. You submit three samples so that we have additional samples on file already if needed. In most cases we will not need to request additional samples.

What type of ancestry do I have?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:28:31 GMT

The mtDNA test traced your mother's mother's mother's direct maternal line without any influences from spouses along that line (see http://www.familytreedna.com/inheritance-chart.aspx) and determined the single origin, such as Native American, African, Asian, or European. To find out about the type of origin found in your mtDNA, look at the "Haplogroup" listed in the mtDNA Results section. Haplogroups A, B, C, D, and sometimes X are found in individuals of Native American origin. Haplogroups L1, L2, L3, are found in individuals of African origin. A number of other haplogroups are found in people of Asian and European origins. You can read a description of where your haplogroup is from by scrolling down in the mtDNA Results section to the paragraphs under the heading "Haplogroup Description."

How do I tell if I have Jewish ancestry?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:32:18 GMT

Because Judaism is a religion and not a physical or geographical attribute that can be defined by a DNA mutation, we can only give you hints about having Jewish ancestry by comparing your results with our database and looking for matches with people that come from the same Semitic background and/or who have declared that they have Jewish ancestry on that line. There are 4 possible results when testing for Jewish ancestry: You match only people who are also Jewish on their direct maternal line -- in other words the signature, or "motif," only matches with people who have a known Jewish ancestry. The answer in this case is pretty clear and obvious. You match a motif that has both Jews and non Jews -- the answer is not clear and we can't guess whether your personal lineage is Jewish or not. You match no one of known Jewish origins -the answer is also clear...that you likely do not have Jewish origins on this lineage. You have no matches in our system at all (we haven't ever see this particular result before). Look in the mtDNA Ancestral Origins section to see whether or not the people you match have an ethnic "Comment". Those in our database have a listing in the "Comments" column denoting Jewish ancestry will usually say "Ashkenazi", "Sephardic" or "Mizrachi" If you need further interpretation, please contact bcg@familytreedna.com.

Where did my ancestors come from?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:33:54 GMT

There are two places to look for the answer to this question. The first is your haplogroup, which is identified and described for you in your mtDNA Results section. The second place to look is in our Recent Ancestral Origins database, found in the mtDNA Ancestral Origins section. In this section we list the countries of origin reported to us by other people who have the same results as you. This list does not represent places where your ancestors have been so much as places where your DNA signature can be found today, but this list can provide a guide as to the possibilities of where your ancestors come from. If you have few matches, this list will not be statistically representative, and you therefore will need to wait until more people are added to the database (several thousand are added every month).

What is the CRS (Cambridge Reference Sequence)?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:35:14 GMT

The CRS is the Cambridge Reference Sequence. It was the first mtDNA sequence to be completed, and all mtDNA tests are now compared to a revised edition of it. (rCRS) The entire sequence is very long, and if written out completely would be a series of letter combinations that would be much longer than this example: ATCGATCGGCTAATTACGCGATATATATACGACG. Instead, we create a list of the places where your sequence is different from the rCRS. If two individuals have the same list of differences from the rCRS, they have the same sequence as one another in the region(s) tested. For your benefit, the rCRS for the HVR1 and HVR2 regions is listed at the bottom of your mtDNA Results section.

What are haplogroups?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:38:24 GMT

Haplogroups are genetic population groups that identify where in the mtDNA tree of humanity you fit in. Haplogroups are what allow us to identify how large groups of people migrated starting from Africa over 60,000 years ago to different parts of the world. A description of your haplogroup is available in the mtDNA Results section: http://www.familytreedna.com/understanding-haplogroups.aspx For a more detailed explanation of Haplogroups, please check here: www.familytreedna.com/hap_explain.html.

What is my haplogroup?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:39:24 GMT

You can find your haplogroup assignment in the mtDNA Results section. It is listed in the top section of the page in the chart that also lists your differences from the revised CRS. A description of your haplogroup is listed on this page as well. For a more detailed explanation of haplogroups, please check here: http://www.familytreedna.com/understanding-haplogroups.aspx.

What are supergroups?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

Some haplogroups are the foundation for a number of other haplogroups. These "supergroups" are older, and most supergroups are not commonly found today because most of their descendents branched into other haplogroups. An example of a supergroup is R, which is the founding haplogroup preceding J, T, B, U, K, H, and V. Individuals belonging to the supergroup R and none of its branches are often labeled R*, meaning that they belong to R but not to any of its children haplogroups.

Are the mtDNA haplogroups predicted or confirmed?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:40:48 GMT

When we first started in 2000, haplogroup predictions were not provided; just the mutations. However, it was not very user friendly for individuals to look up the comparison data available on the web so we began providing predictions by comparison. In 2005 we began running haplogroup tests on every sample. The haplogroup test is now part of every mtDNA test we run. Currently we run a panel of 20 different SNP's on every mtDNA sample to attain the precise haplogroup of every mtDNA test we perform. This is above or far above what anyone else offers when testing mtDNA worldwide.

Don't we all go back to Africa?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:41:41 GMT

Yes, all of our mtDNA lineages trace back to a common ancestor who lived in Africa 100,000 to 150,000 years ago. Some lineages migrated out of Africa about 60,000 years ago, while others remained. Lineages that historically remained in Africa include haplogroups L1, L2, and L3. Lineages that historically migrated out of Africa descend from the other haplogroups.

What do my differences from the CRS mean?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:43:36 GMT

DNA is composed of four bases, represented by the first letter of their name. A=Adenine, T=Thymine C=Cytosine G=Guanine. When an mtDNA test is performed, the lab looks at one section of your mtDNA sequence. The entire sequence is very long, and if written out completely would be a series of letter combinations that would be much longer than this example: ATCGATCGGCTAATTACGCGATATATATACGACG. To learn more about DNA, please use this link to our tutorial section: http://www.familytreedna.com/understanding-dna.aspx . Your results are then compared to the Cambridge Reference sequence (CRS). Where you have a different base in your sequence from the CRS a mutation is noted. For your HVR1 results, we are looking at the mtDNA sequence identified as 16001-16570. You can find the list of differences from the CRS in the first section of your mtDNA Results page. Just as an example, if the difference "16519C" is listed in your chart, then at location 16519 instead of having a T, your sequence has a C. If instead of a list of differences your chart lists "CRS," it means that your result matches the CRS across the entire HVR1 region. On your personal page, the original CRS is listed below your results. The red letters indicate where your sequence is different from the CRS. These mutations help identify which haplogroup you belong to.

What are mutations? Are they bad?!?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

Mutations are natural copying errors. A good analogy is to think of a copy machine which is making many copies of a page. Every once in a while it will make a mistake; an e might look more like an o, for example. This is a "mutation." If you then take that page with the o and copy it, it will pass on its "mutation" to all of its descendent copies. Your cells have error-checking mechanisms that prevent most mutations that take place in the actual genes from causing problems. The DNA we are testing, though, is found between the actual genes (the genes are found in the "coding region" of the mtDNA). Any mutations here do not have any medical or physiological effect. An exception is the mtDNA full sequence or Mega test. The full Mitochondria does contain a series of genes which may well express for some inheritable traits; however we are not physicians and do not review medical journals, nor will we. See "Should I order the upgrade to the Mega test?" at www.familytreedna.com/mtDNA_tutorial.html#37 for more information about the full sequence test. When we test mtDNA, we compare the results with the CRS and list the places in which your sequence is different from the CRS. These differences are often called "mutations" although they are not all necessarily mutations on your line. The CRS, after all, is also based on the mtDNA results of a person.

What are insertions and deletions?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:45:32 GMT

In some cases you will see insertions in your mtDNA sequence. If you have an insertion after base pair 255, for example, the insertion will be listed as the base pair and .1C. In this case, a single base pair insertion has been found in your mtDNA string, noted by the .1. The nucleotide changed to cytosine (C) from guanine (G), therefore denoted with a C. The insertion then looks like this: 255.1C. If you have a 2 base pair insertion the results might look like this: 255.1C 255.2A. It is also possible that you have a deletion; a base pair was not copied and you just don't have a base pair at that particular place in your sequence. For example, "522 -" means that this location, 522, isn't in your sequence and is represented by a minus sign at the site where the nucleotide base should have been found.

Are any mutations more common than others?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

There are some mutations which we see more often than others, but there is no established list of common and rare mutations. The databases might need to grow considerably before scientists are able to identify most mutations as "common" or "rare." One mutation which we find very often in a number of different haplogroups is 16519C in the HVR1 result. This is a base pair in the mtDNA which seems to have mutated many different times in human history.

What are HVR1 and HVR2?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:50:15 GMT

HVR stands for "Hypervariable Region." There are two of them in mtDNA, and they are named this way because they tend to mutate more often here than in the coding region. They also contain no genes, which means that testing these regions provides information about a person's ancestral origins on their maternal line (http://www.familytreedna.com/inheritance-chart.aspx) without revealing any health or medical conditions.

What are "low resolution matches"?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

A low resolution match occurs when two individuals have exactly the same sequence in the HVR1. As long as they are in the same haplogroup, these two individuals very likely share a common ancestor at some point on the maternal line. A low resolution match has about a 50% chance of sharing a common ancestor within the last 52 generations (about 1300 years). If the haplogroups are different, then the match is coincidental due to "convergent evolution" (two unrelated lineages mutate so that they look alike) and there is no common ancestor in thousands or a few tens of thousands of years.

What are "high resolution matches"?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 18:15:02 GMT

A high resolution match occurs when two individuals have exactly the same sequence in both the HVR1 and HVR2. High resolution matches are more likely to be related within a genealogical time frame. A high resolution match has about a 50% chance of sharing a common ancestor within the last 28 generations (about 700 years).

How many generations back does it trace?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

Because mtDNA is passed down from the mother intact in each generation, the answer is that the test can cover both recent and distant generations. On the recent side, the mtDNA Ancestral Origins section will point towards possible countries of origin for the recent ancestors. If you have few matches, this list will not be statistically representative, and you therefore will need to wait until more people are added to the database (several thousand are added every month). The mtDNA test also identifies the haplogroup, which represents your deep ancestral origins (think tens of thousands of years ago). A low resolution match means that you have about a 50% chance of sharing a common ancestor within the last 52 generations (about 1300 years), and a high resolution match reduces the figure to around 28 generations (about 700 years).

Why don't I have any low resolution matches?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 08:30:27 GMT

First, go to your User Preferences section and make sure the box next to "HVR1 matches" is checked. If it is not, check it and click "Update" at the bottom of the page. Return to your mtDNA Matches section to view the list of matches. If you do not have any low resolution matches, you are the first person with your particular HVR1 sequence to be in our database. This can mean that your result is relatively rare and that, as a result, few people have it. It can also mean that no one else from your particular lineage has happened to test yet. In both cases, the good news is that the database is constantly growing. The system will continue to search for matches for you whenever new results come in, and will notify you by email when a new match arrives. In the meantime, you might want to try uploading your results to the public database, www.mitosearch.org. Since this database allows people who have tested with any company to upload and compare results, being in this database increases your chances of finding a match. To upload your results to mitosearch, go to the mtDNA Matches section and click the link labeled "Click here to upload to MitoSearch.org."

Why don't I have any high resolution matches?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 08:31:31 GMT

First, go to your User Preferences section and make sure the box next to "HVR2 matches" is checked. If it is not, check it and click "Update" at the bottom of the page. Return to your mtDNA Matches section to view the list of matches. If you do not have any low resolution matches, you will not have any high resolution matches. This is because anyone who is a high resolution match has the same HVR1 result as you and is by definition also a low resolution match. You will also not have any high resolution matches if you have not tested your HVR2 region, or if none of your low resolution matches have tested the HVR2 region. If one of your low resolution matches has tested the HVR2 region, "(HVR2)" will appear next to his or her name. If you have no high resolution matches, it is because you are the only person in our database with your particular set of results for the HVR1 and HVR2 regions. As our database grows, the system will continue to look for high resolution matches for you, and will send you a notification email as soon as a matching result comes into our database. In the meantime, you might want to try uploading your results to the public database, www.mitosearch.org. Since this database allows people who have tested with any company to upload and compare results, being in this database increases your chances of finding a match. To upload your results to mitosearch, go to the mtDNA Matches section and click the link labeled "Click here to upload to MitoSearch.org."

Why do I have so many matches?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 18:21:48 GMT

There are a few results which we find in a very large number of people in a population. The reasons for this can vary. It can be because people with this exact same result-your ancestors-lived thousands or tens of thousands of years ago and by now there are many descendents carrying their signature. On the other hand, you might have a more recent (within the last one or two thousand years) common ancestor with this result who had many daughters, who had many daughters, and so on so that there are many people with that same result today. You can reduce this list of matches by testing the HVR2 (mtDNARefine upgrade). This test would pick out which of your low resolution matches are most likely to be related in a recent time frame. If you have tested for HVR1 and HVR2 and want to reduce the number of email notifications you get you may turn off the mail function for HVR-1 matches on your Preferences page.

Why am I matching both men and women?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 18:22:42 GMT

This is because mtDNA is passed down only from the mother, but both men and women receive it. This means that both men and women can take the mtDNA test, although no matter who takes the test it will still trace only the maternal line (http://www.familytreedna.com/inheritance-chart.aspx).

Why doesn't this show me more recent ancestry and matches?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

The mutations, or changes, in the mtDNA are what allow us to determine a person's ancestral origins because the changes help to set unrelated individuals apart. However, mtDNA does not change very often, and so you might have very similar or the same results to a wide range of people. This varies from result to result. Testing the HVR2 region helps to narrow down the list of matches to a more recent time frame, and occasionally is helpful in identifying a narrower region of origin for your lineage.

What does "Unknown Origin" mean?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 18:25:52 GMT

The mtDNA Ancestral Origins database is an anonymous search of the database and lists the countries of origin reported to us by the people that you match. If these individuals did not tell us a country of origin, either because they do not know or because they did not want to share it, we entered them as "Unknown Origin." You can change the listing for your kit using the "Contact Information" link to update your maternal country of origin.

Why do some of my matches show "United States"?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 18:26:45 GMT

The mtDNA Ancestral Origins section lists the country of origin reported to us by the people that you match. This country of origin is meant to be the country your maternal ancestors (http://www.familytreedna.com/inheritance-chart.aspx) came from before any migrations to the Americas. However, some individuals instead enter the country of birth for themselves, their parents, or their most distant known ancestor. You should treat these entries as "Unknown Origin" unless your mtDNA test result indicated Native American ancestry on your maternal line.

Why are so many different countries listed?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

The same DNA results tend to be found in a range of countries in an area. Some results are found often enough that they have spread out throughout a very large region or a continent. If, for example, you match people from countries located throughout Europe, you happen to have a DNA result which is found in all of these places. The best way to narrow down the list is to test the HVR2 region, since it can pick out which of these matches are high resolution matches. Ancestral studies have shown that females have married men in different villages, historically, while men have tended to stay in their ancestral villages.

What does the "Count" mean?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

The count column represents the number of people of this description in our database whom you match. For example, if under the "Country" column it says England and under the "Count" column it says 16, it means that there are 16 people who have tested with us who match your result and have reported England as their maternal country of origin. Higher counts may mean a higher chance that your ancestors come from that region, but keep in mind that more people with ancestry from some countries may have tested than from others.

Why doesn't this show me percentages?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 18:30:23 GMT

You received your mtDNA from your mother, who got it from her mother, who got it from her mother, and so on. Since fathers do not pass down their mtDNA in any generation, testing the mtDNA allows us to trace your maternal line (http://www.familytreedna.com/inheritance-chart.aspx), but no other. This means that any ancestry from your father's side, mother's father's side, grandmother's father's side, and so on, is not represented in your mtDNA. As a result, tracing this line can only lead to one origin, and no approximate percentage of origins is possible with this type of test.

Have I tested just the HVR1 or both the HVR1 and HVR2?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

Look in the mtDNA Results section at the chart in the first section of the page. If you have tested the HVR2 region, this chart will list both HVR1 differences from the CRS and HVR2 differences from the CRS. If it lists only differences for the HVR1 region and the HVR2 region is not listed in the "Pending Lab Results" section (this section only appears when there is a test still in process at the lab), then you tested only the HVR1 region.

Should I order the mtDNA Refine test?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 18:32:45 GMT

If you answer "no" to any of the following questions, the mtDNARefine test most likely will not help you at this time: Do you want to look for genealogical connections with other people in the database? Do you have several low resolution matches? Do any of your low resolution matches have "(HVR2)" entered next to their names? If you answered "yes" to all of these questions, then testing the HVR2 by taking the mtDNARefine test may be useful for you. The mtDNARefine test adds the HVR2 to your results and allows us to look for high resolution matches. Your haplogroup will not change as that is assigned when you take the HVR1 test.

What will the mtDNA Refine test tell me?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

Should I order the upgrade to the mtDNA full sequence test?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 14:59:42 GMT

There are several reasons that a person might wish to test the full mitochondrial DNA sequence. - to determine the most extended haplogroup assignment according to currently published research, including the ability to refine the haplogroup assignment further as more research is published without the need for further testing. - to identify whether a relationship is likely to be close or distant. - to have the full sequence available to compare with research, to include in research, and to eliminate the need to perform additional mtDNA testing on the sample. Not everyone needs the full sequence in order to find out the information they are looking for. However, it has already become the standard test used by researchers studying the mtDNA, and it is only a matter of time before it becomes the standard test for individuals wanting to use their mtDNA results for genealogical purposes.

What will the mtDNA full sequence test tell me?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 14:59:56 GMT

What "Daughter of Eve" do I descend from?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

The "Daughters of Eve" are fictional names given to some of the haplogroups. Because those are fictional names with no scientific relevance, and as such cannot be compared in the scientific literature for your benefit, Family Tree DNA follows the accepted scientific nomenclature for haplogroups. The "Daughter of Eve" names begin with the same letter as the haplogroup name.

What is the SNP Assurance Program?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 18:37:44 GMT

In order to provide our customers with the highest level of haplogroup confidence, Family Tree DNA provides a SNP Assurance Program. In this program, if we cannot predict a person’s Y-DNA haplogroup with sufficient confidence that they can join the National Geographic’s Genographic Project, we will automatically perform a Backbone SNP test in order to identify the haplogroup assignment. When a haplogroup is in doubt the Backbone SNP test will be ordered automatically after the initial Y-DNA test results are posted. You can learn more about the SNP Assurance Program here: http://www.familytreedna.com/snp-assurance-program.aspx. After the haplogroup has been assigned the customer can decide if upgrading to the Deep Clade test makes sense for them.

What is the SNP Assurance Program?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:40:43 GMT

A member of my project tested before you implemented the SNP Assurance Program. Will you confirm his haplogroup?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 18:39:54 GMT

In most cases, if a previously tested member qualifies for the SNP Assurance Program we will confirm his haplogroup. We have already redrawn DAN form most clients who qualified prior to this program. If they don't have a results it usually means hat the DNA sample wasn't sufficient to run the SNP Assurance program on the sample.

What is an mtDNA test? What will it tell me?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 18:41:35 GMT

An mtDNA test looks at your female-inherited mitochondrial DNA. Because mtDNA is passed from a mother to her children with no input from any spouses along the way, this test will look at your direct maternal line only. You can view an illustration here: http://www.familytreedna.com/inheritance-chart.aspx. The mtDNA tests provide information regarding the single origin of your direct maternal line.

Should I order the mtDNA HVR2 refinement test?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 18:43:13 GMT

The mtDNA Refine test allows us to look for high resolution matches with other individuals, who would be the people in the database who are most likely to share a common ancestor with you in a genealogical time frame. It will usually also reduce the least likely matches that you have in the database. If you have many HVR1 matches usually the upgrade is a good idea.

What will the mtDNA Full Sequence test tell me?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:03:04 GMT

What is a Y-DNA test? What will it tell me?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 18:45:06 GMT

The Y-DNA test looks at DNA of the Y-chromosome which is passed from father to son and is only found in males. Because yDNA is passed from father to son with no input from any spouses along the way, this test will look at your direct paternal line only. You can view an illustration here: http://www.familytreedna.com/inheritance-chart.aspx. Females do not receive the Y-DNA, and therefore females cannot be tested for the paternal line. If you are a female and would like to know about your paternal line, you would need to have a brother or a male relative from that line to be tested. YDNA useful in verifying common ancestry between two males, finding genetic cousins on the paternal line, and determining geographic origins of the direct paternal line as well as the deep ancestral origins.

Why should I order additional Y-DNA markers?

Family Tree DNA — Tue, 12 May 2009 10:33:12 GMT

You should test more markers when you want to compare additional markers against others with similar results to you. The additional markers do not provide information about the geographic or deep origin of your paternal line. They are simply used to compare your results against the results of others and to further refine your matches. They can also help refine (reduce the number of) matches in your Recent Ancestral Origins report page. If you do not have many matches at this time or many matches that have tested more markers, you may still choose to test more markers. That way, as the database grows and you gain additional matches, you will be able to make more refined or selective comparisons. If you currently have many Y12 or Y25 marker matches you should certainly consider upgrading your Y DNA profile to a higher level.

Should I test my Y-DNA haplogroup?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 18:48:43 GMT

Most individuals do not need a test to confirm their haplogroup. In some rare cases, a Y-DNA signature may be unique in our database. You can determine your haplogroup information from the Haplotree section. In order to provide our customers with the highest level of haplogroup confidence, Family Tree DNA provides a SNP Assurance Program. In this program, if we cannot predict a person’s Y-DNA haplogroup with sufficient confidence that they can join the National Geographic’s Genographic Project, we will automatically perform a Backbone SNP test in order to identify the haplogroup assignment. When a haplogroup is in doubt the Backbone SNP test will be ordered automatically after the initial Y-DNA test results are posted. You can learn more about the SNP Assurance Program here: http://www.familytreedna.com/snp-assurance-program.aspx .

What is a Deep Clade test?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 18:49:59 GMT

A haplogroup test will test a single SNP to determine which haplogroup, or major branch of the Y-DNA phylogenetic tree, your paternal line belongs to. For a more detailed explanation of haplogroups, please check here: http://www.familytreedna.com/understanding-haplogroups.aspx. Once your haplogroup is known or predicted, you can use a Deep Clade test to identify the other SNP mutations that occurred in order to find your twig on the Y-DNA tree. You can read more about Family Tree DNA Deep SNP tests here: http://www.familytreedna.com/deepclade-haplogroup-tests.aspx.

What is a Backbone test?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 18:51:07 GMT

A Backbone test determines which haplogroup, or major branch of the Y-DNA tree, your paternal line belongs to. It tests the “backbone” of the tree or the SNPs that determine the major branches. For a more detailed explanation of haplogroups, please check here: http://www.familytreedna.com/understanding-haplogroups.aspx. In order to provide our customers with the highest level of haplogroup confidence, Family Tree DNA is now providing a SNP Assurance Program. In this program, if we cannot predict a person’s Y-DNA haplogroup with sufficient confidence that they can join the National Geographic’s Genographic Project, we will automatically perform a Backbone SNP test in order to identify the haplogroup assignment. When a haplogroup is in doubt the Backbone SNP test will be ordered automatically after the initial Y-DNA test results are posted. You can learn more about the SNP Assurance Program here: http://www.familytreedna.com/snp-assurance-program.aspx.

What is X-chromosome testing? What will it tell me?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 13:55:13 GMT

X-chromosome testing looks at markers on your X-chromosome(s). Males have one X chromosome and one Y-chromosome and females have two X-chromosomes. X-chromosome testing can be used for some extended relationship testing. For more information please visit our relationship testing website at www.dnafindings.com

Which X-STRs should I test?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 14:00:10 GMT

X-STR Panel 1 contains highly discriminating X-STR markers that can be used for closely related family testing. X-STR Panel 2 contains relevant X-STRs that are well documented in scientific literature. In combination with X-STR Panel 1, it is possible to group them in closely linked X-chromosomal haplotype blocks. Those blocks can be traced for several generations along the X-chromosomal inheritance lineage. For relationship testing questions, visit www.dnafindings.com.

What is the CCR5 test?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 18:55:01 GMT

The CCR5 tests for a 32 base deletion within this gene on both chromosomes that changes the surface of receptors of cells so that some viruses cannot recognize the cell. No receptor may indicate immunity from certain viruses. It is theorized that this CCR5 deletion protected some Europeans from contracted the "Black Plague' during the Middle Ages.

What is an autosomal test? What will it tell me?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 14:07:26 GMT

We test two panels of autosomal markers, which have several useful functions. Autosomal Panel 1 is a general purpose autosomal marker panel. It contains CODIS markers that can be used with the free OmniPop template for self-made bio-geographical interpretation. For relationship testing needs please visit www.dnafindings.com. Autosomal Panel 2 contains high resolution STR markers for verification of a very close relationship. Markers can be compared to European databases like ENFSI and to other cofiler and identifiler based databases. We recommend testing for the markers in Autosomal Panel 1 before ordering Autosomal Panel 2. Like Autosomal Panel 1, this test is not AABB accredited.

What is the newsletter?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 18:58:14 GMT

The newsletter is a free publication called Facts & Genes. It contains announcements regarding advances in the field of genetic genealogy and upcoming events, advice on choosing a test and combining DNA testing with genealogy, and, for Group Administrators, case studies and advice on project management and recruitment. To register for the free newsletter please do so here: http://www.familytreedna.com/facts-and-genes-register.aspx

How do I subscribe to the newsletter?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 18:58:32 GMT

Follow the link below to subscribe to the newsletter. Enter your name and email address, and if you are a current Family Tree DNA customer check the “Customer?” box and enter your kit number. Record and keep the confirmation number given to you after you subscribe. Subscription to the newsletter is free. http://www.familytreedna.com/facts-and-genes-register.aspx

Why do I receive multiple copies of the newsletter?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:08:10 GMT

Each time you order a new kit for yourself or a relative, you are offered the opportunity to subscribe to the newsletter. If you have ordered multiple kits, you may have subscribed multiple times to the newsletter. If you are receiving multiple copies of the newsletter and would like to reduce your subscriptions to one, email your request to editor@familytreedna.com.

What are haplogroups?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 19:01:20 GMT

Haplogroups are genetic population groups that identify where in the Y-DNA or mtDNA tree of humanity you fit in. Haplogroups are what allow us to identify how large groups of people migrated from Africa around 60,000 years ago to different parts of the world. For a more detailed explanation of haplogroups, please check here: http://www.familytreedna.com/understanding-haplogroups.aspx.

Are Y-DNA haplogroups the same as mtDNA haplogroups?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 19:02:03 GMT

No. While they use a similar alphanumeric naming system, the haplogroup names in mtDNA do not correspond with the same haplogroup names in Y-DNA. For a more detailed explanation of haplogroups, please check here: http://www.familytreedna.com/understanding-haplogroups.aspx.

Where is my certificate?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 19:03:24 GMT

A certificate is automatically included in any original test order. You can order additional certificates using the Upgrades and Refinements link , then Standard Orders from your personal page. If your certificate has not been printed yet or was only just printed, the system will not allow you to order another yet. If you transferred your Y-DNA results from the Genographic Project, a certificate is not automatically mailed; you can order one using the "Order Certificates" link.

What is my password?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 19:04:05 GMT

Your password is the second code you enter in when logging on to go to your personal page. The first is your kit number or sample code. Your password is emailed to you when we receive your samples and it is also included on the written report that is mailed to you. If you transferred from the Genographic Project your password is given to you at the time of the transfer. If you have lost your password please send an email to info@familytreedna.com with your kit number, name, and mailing address and request your password.

I tested with the Genographic Project; why are you offering me the Y-DNA haplogroup test?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 19:05:44 GMT

Our system is automatically programmed to offer a haplogroup test or Deep Clade test to individuals whose haplogroup have been tested or confirmed. Because the Genographic Project was able to predict your haplogroup with high confidence, it was not necessary to perform a haplogroup test on your sample. However, the haplogroup or Deep SNP test is made available to you if you wish to have your sample tested to confirm the haplogroup assignment.

How do I use the swabs?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:08:10 GMT

Here are step-by-step directions for using the cheek scrapers: 1) Remove the scraper from the packaging. 2) One end of the scraper has what looks like a flat toothbrush at the end. This is the end you will use to scrape, and is called a “swab.” 3) Insert the swab end of the scraper into your mouth. Hold the scraper at the opposite end like you would a toothbrush. 3) Rub the swab end of the scraper on the inside of your cheek. You may rub up and down, back and forth, or in circles, and you may change the direction you rub at any time. Be sure that the part you are rubbing against your cheek is the swab rather than the plastic rod behind it. 4) Rub vigorously for about a minute. You may rub for 30 seconds in one cheek and then 30 seconds in the other, or you may rub for the entire 60 seconds in one cheek. It is not necessary to draw blood, but if you do it will not harm the sample. 5) Once the minute is up, remove the scraper from your mouth. 6) Open one of the vials by twisting off the cap. Set it upright so that the liquid inside does not spill out. 7) Insert the swab end of the scraper into the vial. 8) Hold the scraper in the middle and push down on the handle end. This will push out the swab so that it is loose in the vial. 9) Throw away the scraper handle and twist the vial’s cap shut. Please be sure that it is shut tightly so that it will not leak. 10) Wait at least 4 hours to perform the second scraping and another 4 hours to perform the 3rd. This gives your cheeks time to recover and helps to give the lab a good backup sample just in case the first one is bad. When you are ready to perform the second scraping, follow steps 1-9 again, on the opposite cheek, using the second scraper and vial we provided. The third scraping can be done on either cheek.

My kit was missing a swab or a vial when I received it. How do I get a replacement?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:08:10 GMT

If you are missing a scraper or vial when you receive your kit, please call our office at (713) 868-1438 or email info@familytreedna.com. Have your kit number ready and we will have a replacement item sent to you the next day.

My cheek bled when I did the scraping, will this affect the sample?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 19:07:43 GMT

While we do not encourage you to draw blood, we can still use the sample even if contains a small amount of blood. Blood is an excellent carrier of your DNA but while we appreciate your enthusiasm it is not necessary to scrape so hard.

I forgot to wait 4 hours between swabs. Do I need a new test?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 19:08:35 GMT

Generally we ask that people wait 4 hours between swabs. This gives your cheeks time to recover and helps to give the lab a good backup sample just in case the first one does not yield results. However, we are usually able to get a good swab regardless of whether you have waited the 4 hours or not. If this happened, please go ahead and send us the samples! If we are unable to get a clear result from the samples provided, we will send you replacement scrapers.

I’ve had a blood transfusion, radiation therapy, or surgery recently. Will this affect the sample?

Family Tree DNA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 19:10:09 GMT

We recommend waiting one week after having serious surgery or radiation therapy before taking a sample. We suggest waiting 1-2 weeks after a blood transfusion as well. However, even if you take the sample right away, the medical treatment you have had should not affect the sample and we will be able to get a good result. The only medical situation that would be of concern would be if you have had to have facial reconstruction surgery and you have had skin graphs from a donor implanted into your mouth. In this case, please call us at (713) 868-1438 and discuss the best way to get a sample.

After I return the kit, how long will results take?

Family Tree DNA — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 19:00:15 GMT

Once the kit is checked in at our office, results typically take 3-5 weeks. Once the results are in you will receive an email with online access to your results page.

Is a certificate included with my test?

Family Tree DNA — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 13:55:07 GMT

Yes! Family Tree DNA tests include a certificate suitable for framing which shows your results. A certificate is provided for every DNA test except for upgrades. The chart below shows which tests you receive a certificate for:

Test	Certificate
12 Marker Y Dna Test	Yes
25 Marker Y DNA Test	Yes
37 Marker Y DNA Test	Yes
67 Marker Y DNA Test	Yes
25 Marker Y DNA Upgrade	Not Included-optional
37 Marker Y DNA Upgrade	Not Included-optional
67 Marker Y DNA Upgrade	Not Included-optional
Y DNA Haplogroup Test	Not Included
Y DNA Deep Clade Test	Yes
mtDNA Test	Yes
mtDNA Plus Test	Yes
mtDNA H Subclade Test	Yes
mtDNA Full Sequence	Yes
mtDNA Plus Upgrade	Not Included-optional

Additional certificates and certificates for upgrades can be ordered for a small charge. To order a certificate, click on "Order Certificates” from the link on your personal page.

When can I order a certificate?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:08:10 GMT

You may find that you cannot order a certificate for a test through the “Order Certificates” link. When a certificate is automatically included in the test you order you cannot order an additional certificate for several days after your results come in to prevent individuals from ordering a duplicate accidentally. Certificates for tests that do not automatically include a certificate can be ordered at any time after the results arrive.

What is my kit number?

Family Tree DNA — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 19:04:44 GMT

Your kit number, or sample number, is a multi-digit number that is associated with your DNA and results. We use this number to keep track of your sample and to connect the sample to the results. Make sure to keep this kit number in a safe place in case you have any questions about the results once they are in. If you cannot find your kit number please send an email to info@familytreedna.com with the name and mailing address listed on the kit. Your kit was was on your receipt which was emailed to you when you placed your order. It is also on your Y or mtDNA results certificate.

What is my password?

Family Tree DNA — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 19:06:03 GMT

Your password is a 5-digit alphanumeric number which is used, along with your kit number, to access your Family Tree DNA personal page. This password is automatically generated by our system when we check in your sample and cannot be changed. If you do not know what your password is please send an email to info@familytreedna.com with the name and mailing address listed on the kit. The password is laos listed on the first page of your report that was mailed to you, along with your certificate when your results were reported.

Will I get results through the mail?

Family Tree DNA — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 13:55:33 GMT

Yes. We send out certificates and reports through regular postal mail. To see what the certificates look like, please go to this link: http://www.familytreedna.com/certificates-and-reports.aspx. The certificates and lab reports may take up to 3 weeks to arrive after your results have been uploaded to your online profile because we print and mail certificates in batches. However, please note that certificates and reports are not mailed out for upgrades or transfers from the Genographic Project. Here is a list of when we do and do not send certificates (for those which are marked "No" you may order an optional certificate for $10 through your personal page):

Test	Certificate
12 Marker Y Dna Test	Yes
25 Marker Y DNA Test	Yes
37 Marker Y DNA Test	Yes
67 Marker Y DNA Test	Yes
25 Marker Y DNA Upgrade	No
37 Marker Y DNA Upgrade	No
67 Marker Y DNA Upgrade	No
Y DNA Haplogroup Test	No
Y DNA Deep Clade Test	Yes
mtDNA Test	Yes
mtDNA Plus Test	Yes
mtDNA H Subclade Test	Yes
mtDNA Full Sequence	Yes
mtDNA Plus Upgrade	No

How can I see my results once they are posted?

Family Tree DNA — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 19:08:47 GMT

Once your results are finished we will upload them to your Family Tree DNA personal page and send you an email to let you know that they are ready. This email will contain a link that will allow you to access your personal page or you can go to our main website at http://www.ftdna.com. On the upper right-hand side of this page you'll find two boxes...one for your Kit # and the other for your password. Here, enter in your kit number and password to bring up your kit.

How do I log in?

Family Tree DNA — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 19:09:47 GMT

You will be able to log in any time after Family Tree DNA has received your sample. To log in, go to www.familytreedna.com and enter your kit number and password in the boxes for kit and password at the top of the main page of the site.. Capitalize any letters in your kit number or password as they are case sensitive.

How do I stop receiving match notification emails?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:08:10 GMT

To stop receiving match notification emails, log in to your personal page. Next, go to the Setup Preferences section. In this section you have the ability to limit the search for matches to individuals in the same Surname Project as you, which would reduce the number of match emails you receive (only available if you are a member of a project). To stop receiving match notification emails, uncheck the boxes next to types of matches for which you wish to stop receiving notifications. To stop receiving all match notifications, uncheck all of the boxes. Click Update at the bottom of the page to save the changes.

Why didn’t I receive a notification email when I got a new match?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:08:10 GMT

There are several possibilities for why you may not receive a notification email. - the email was sent but was intercepted or deleted by a spam filter or firewall. - your email address was listed incorrectly in your contact information (click on the Update Contact Information link to check or update your contact information). - the person you match originally had their settings selected to only look for matches within a different project. As a result, only those people they matched within that project would have received a notification email. The new match then joined the project you are in or changed their match settings. - your match settings were selected to not look for that type of match or to look only within a project that the person you match was not a member of. - you and the new match were enrolled in the same project, but were focusing your search for matches on different projects at the time the match was added into our database. - the person you match did not originally signed the release form. Once they signed the form the matches appear, but in that case no notifications are sent. - you did not originally sign the release form. Once you signed the release form, your matches appeared, but in that case no notifications are sent.

How do I change my matching settings?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:08:10 GMT

Log in to your personal page and go to the Setup Preferences section (available only after you have received results). In this section you have the ability to limit the search for matches to individuals in the same Surname Project as you or to look for matches across the entire database. Check the boxes next to the types of matches you want the system to look for, and uncheck the boxes next to the types of matches you do not want the system to look for. This will also control what match notification emails you receive. Click Update at the bottom of the page to save the changes.

Where do I put my ancestor information?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:08:10 GMT

There are three places where you can put information about your ancestry. - the Update Contact Information link in your personal page has a dropdown menu from which you can select the country in which your ancestors originated for your direct paternal line or direct maternal line (if known). If you do not know it, leave it blank or select Unknown Origin. This information is displayed in the Ancestral Origins sections of the people that you match. - the Setup Preferences section of your personal page has a space where you can enter the name of your most distant known ancestor on your direct paternal or direct maternal line. You can also enter birth and death locations and years. This information is displayed in your project’s results charts. If you are not in a project, then this information is not displayed anywhere but your own Setup Preferences page. - the Gedcom section of your personal page allows you to upload a gedcom file of your family tree if you have one.

How do I order additional tests?

Family Tree DNA — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 19:12:51 GMT

Log in to your personal page and click the link labeled “Order Upgrades and Refinements.” To add on or upgrade to the Y-DNA12, 25, 37, or 67 marker tests, or to add on or upgrade to the mtDNA, mtDNAPlus, or mtDNA Full Sequence tests, click the Standard Orders choice. To order individual markers, DNA-Fingerprint testing panels, or Autosomal or X chromosome tests, click Advanced Orders. Standard Orders – scroll down and select your preferred payment method. Please note that the tests you order will not be performed until they are paid. Tests are performed on the sample you have already provided and no new kit will be sent out unless the lab determines that they are unable to complete the testing with the current sample. Select the test or upgrade you want to order from the dropdown menu and click Continue to go to the billing page. Fill in your billing information and click Submit to complete the order. Advanced Orders – check the boxes to select the test panels or individual markers that you wish to order. Click on linked panels and markers to read the product description. Click Continue at the bottom of the page, fill in your billing information, and click Submit. Please note that the only payment option available for these tests is credit card.

How do I order a Y-DNA haplogroup test?

Family Tree DNA — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 19:13:58 GMT

If you decide to test your haplogroup you can order the test either online on the link from your Haplotree page. Here you will be able to read about the available test as well as order it.

What is the FTDNATiP Calculator, and how do I use it?

Family Tree DNA — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 19:14:34 GMT

Please view the FTDNATiP Calculator FAQ here: http://www.familytreedna.com/faq-tip.aspx.

What is a GEDCOM?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:08:10 GMT

A GEDCOM is a common file format that allows genealogists to exchange information about their ancestors. A GEDCOM file can be created using genealogy software that allows you to export your data in GEDCOM format. If you have one, you can upload your GEDCOM file in the GEDCOM section of your personal page.

How do I upload a Gedcom file?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:08:10 GMT

Log in to your personal page and click on the section titled GEDCOM – Family Tree. Then follow the instructions on the page. All of the steps must be completed for the Gedcom file to be uploaded.

Where on my computer do I find the Gedcom file?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:08:10 GMT

A Gedcom file is a file you can create using genealogy software. When you create the Gedcom file, you select the place on the computer where it will be saved. This is where you will find it when you wish to upload your Gedcom file.

How do I upload my results to Ysearch?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:08:10 GMT

You can upload your Y-DNA results to Ysearch using a link provided in the Y-DNA Matches section of your personal page. This link is located just above your list of matches and says Click here to upload to Ysearch.org. Using this link will automatically fill in your Y-DNA results in the Create a New User page on Ysearch. Fill in the remaining information that you know and click Save Information to create your Ysearch account. If you have already uploaded results to Ysearch or Mitosearch and have since received new Y-DNA results, the link to upload these to Ysearch will reappear in your Y-DNA Matches section. Click on this link and log in using your Ysearch or Mitosearch UserID and password. Then scroll to the bottom of the page and click Save Information to update your Ysearch account.

How do I upload my results to Mitosearch?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:08:10 GMT

You can upload your mtDNA results to Mitosearch using a link provided in the mtDNA Matches section of your personal page. This link is located just above your list of matches and says Click here to upload to Mitosearch.org. Using this link will automatically fill in your mtDNA results in the Create a New User page on Mitosearch. Fill in the remaining information that you know and click Save Information to create your Mitosearch account. If you have already uploaded results to Ysearch or Mitosearch and have since received new mtDNA results, the link to upload these to Mitosearch will reappear in your mtDNA Matches section. Click on this link and log in using your Ysearch or Mitosearch UserID and password. Then scroll to the bottom of the page and click Save Information to update your Mitosearch account.

How do I update my contact information?

Family Tree DNA — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 13:20:42 GMT

To update your contact information, log in to your personal page and click on the link that says Update Contact Information. Update the contact information listed on this page and click Update to save the changes.

How do I change or enter my country of origin?

Family Tree DNA — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 13:22:47 GMT

To enter or change your country of origin listing, log in to your personal page and click on the link "Contact Information". Select the country in which your ancestors originated for your direct paternal line or direct maternal line (if known). If you do not know it, leave it blank or select Unknown Origin. This information is displayed in the Ancestral Origins sections of the people that you match.

How do I get notification emails sent to more email addresses?

Family Tree DNA — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 13:25:56 GMT

Log in to your personal page and click on the link to Contact Information. In the field labeled Additional E-Mails enter the email addresses of other individuals who should receive email notifications and have full access to the personal page. Separate multiple email addresses with a comma , or semicolon ;. Others who see your profile on their pages and want to email you will not see the email listed on the additional E-Mails. If you want to have everyone who sees your name listed be able to send an email to your additional email you'll need to add that email to your primary email line separated by a , or ;

How do I join a project?

Family Tree DNA — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 13:38:16 GMT

Joining is simple. If you have not tested before, just select the project you wish to join, either through the “Surname Search” box or by browsing through the list of projects at www.familytreedna.com/surname.aspx. Then click on the title of the project you are interested in. You will see information on the project and below that you will either be able to fill out an order form or a Join Request. If you have already tested and want to join a project you can click on the square blue "join" icon to the right of your name and kit number on your Family Tree DNA personal page. You can browse and search projects to join here.

How do I remove myself from a project?

Family Tree DNA — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 13:38:46 GMT

Log in to your personal page. To remove yourself from a project select the project iand click on the “X” symbol to the right of the dropdown menu.

How do I order certificates?

Family Tree DNA — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 13:39:39 GMT

The first certificate for a new kit or new test type is FREE. Please do not place a certificate order unless you want an additional copy. You may place the certificate order by logging in to your personal page and selecting the order certificate link on to your personal page (left hand side). Each additional certificate is $10. Only credit card payment is accepted for certificate orders.

Why can’t I order a certificate for this test?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:08:10 GMT

If you have not yet received the results or if a certificate is included with your test order and has not yet been printed and mailed, then the system will not allow you to order the certificate in order to prevent double ordering. After the first certificate is printed and mailed, you should be able to order additional copies one at a time. However, some tests which we no longer perform or only recently began to perform may not have certificates available.

Why doesn’t anything happen when I click “Understanding Your Results”?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:08:10 GMT

The “Understanding Your Results” link leads to a file in the .pdf format. This file is a copy of the generic report that is printed and mailed with the certificate. You need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view a .pdf file. You may use another computer to view this file or you may download Adobe Acrobat Reader from this site: http://www.adobe.com/

Why is the password blank on the “Understanding Your Results” page?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:08:10 GMT

This page is an electronic copy of the generic report that is printed and mailed along with a certificate. The password is filled in on the copy that is mailed.

I tested before you implemented the SNP Assurance Program, will you confirm my haplogroup?

Family Tree DNA — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 13:42:08 GMT

In most cases, if a previously tested member qualifies for the SNP Assurance Program we will confirm his haplogroup. you may email your request to info@familytreedna.com

How Many to Test? 12, 37, 67 Markers?

Family Tree DNA — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 15:11:29 GMT

With several levels of Y-DNA test being offered, how does one know which is the right one to choose? If I submit a sample to you for testing and you find that I match exactly with another person, how many generations ago did we have a common ancestor?

Is the 37-marker test not enough? Why the need for a 67-marker test?

Our motivation to offer a 67-marker test was two fold:

Family Tree DNA wanted to ensure our customers that by testing with us they could obtain the highest resolution Y-DNA test in the world (like FTDNA clients may also obtain the highest resolution test on their mtDNA by taking our Full Genomic Scan, which looks at the entire mitochondria molecule).
Several groups of families have still not been able to completely determine the relatedness of group members with our flagship 37 marker test. Therefore we see two main advantages of testing 67 markers over testing 37:
- Y-DNA67 can further refine our estimate of how closely related two individuals are,
- By using additional markers groups of related participants have a better chance of finding mutations which identify sub-branches in the family.

However, not all participants or projects need to test 67 markers in order to achieve their objectives.

Some projects will be able to achieve their goals with a 12, 25 or 37 marker test. Only if you are in a project and part of a subgroup of that project where you match, exactly or nearly exactly, to several others will you gain by upgrading to additional marker.

Our motto could be: test only what you need, upgrade only when necessary.

Here are the times back to the MRCA when ALL the markers match. Those numbers are based in the latest results of the mutation rate study conducted by the University of Arizona. For example, with 37/37 (all 37 markers match), there is a 50% probability that the MRCA was no longer than 2 generations, and a 90% probability that the MRCA was within the last 5 generations. Compare these with 25 and 12 -- with 25 markers, there is a 50% probability that the MRCA was within the last 3 generations, while with 12 markers, there is a 50% probability that the MRCA was within the last 7 generations.

Table 1.

Probability for Most Recent Common Ancestor (MRCA)

Number of matching markers	50% probability that the MRCA was no longer than this number of generations	90% probability that the MRCA was no longer than this number of generations	95% probability that the MRCA was no longer than this number of generations
10 of 10	16.5	56	72
11 of 12	17	39	47
12 of 12	7	23	29
23 of 25	11	23	27
24 of 25	7	16	20
25 of 25	3	10	13
35 of 37	6	12	14
36 of 37	4	8	10
37 of 37	2 to 3	5	7
65 of 67	6	12	14
66 of 67	4	8	9
67 of 67	2	4	6

FamilyTreeDNA's 37 and 67 marker tests point to a much lower number of generations to the most recent common ancestor than other commercially available tests. We use exacting statistics appropriate for the non-independent transfer of genetic material on the Y Chromosome.

Table 2.

Examples of previously tested individuals.

Situation	DYS #												Result
	393	390	19	391	385a	385b	426	388	439	389i	392	389ii

California-Same Surname	12	22	14	10	14	15	11	15	11	14	11	31	12/12 match with Argentina
Argentina Same Surname	12	22	14	10	14	15	11	15	11	14	11	31	12/12 match with California

5 Generations in US-Same Surname	12	23	14	10	13	17	11	16	11	13	11	30	12/12 Match with E. Europe
Recent Arrival from E. Europe-Same Surname	12	23	14	10	13	17	11	16	11	13	11	30
Houston Same Surname	14	22	15	10	13	13	11	12	11	12	12	29	Not a match with Brazil
Brazil Same Surname	13	25	16	10	12	14	12	12	11	13	11	29	Not a match with Houston

Nordic Genetic Fingerprint	13	23	14	10	14	14	11	14	11	12	11	28	Sample of Nordic Haplotype

Western Atlantic (Modal) Haplotype	13	24	14	11	11	14	12	12	12	13	13	29	Sample of W. Atlantic Haplotype

Samaritan	12	23	14	10	14	17	12	15	13	13	11	29	Sample of Samaritan Haplotype

Does Family Tree DNA offer unlimited email and phone customer service time?

Family Tree DNA — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 15:05:51 GMT

Family Tree DNA will offer 90 minutes of customer service per kit. Additional time may be purchased at $60/hour and can be used in 30 minute intervals.

What is the likelihood of a non paternal event or false paternity?

Family Tree DNA — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 15:07:51 GMT

We believe that the rate of unannounced adoption or false paternity is about 1-2% per generation. When confirming your lineage we recommend that you test yourself and your most distantly related male ancestor to verify the line back to the common male ancestor.

How can I submit/transfer test results obtained from Ancestry.com or another testing company to Family Tree DNA?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 16:12:52 GMT

We are sorry, but we can not accept data into our database from other labs for two main reasons:. One, we cannot guarantee that they tested the same markers and two, we cannot guarantee that they were scored in the same nomenclature that we use or that the results are even correct. We must assure that the DNA results in our database are uniform and presented in the same manner. We cannot do this by accepting outside results. For this reason if you would like to be added to the Family Tree DNA database we would have to verify results in our own lab. You can order a DNA test kit at a special price by clicking on the following link:

http://www.familytreedna.com/PDF/PROMO_GAP.pdf

What is a heteroplasmy?

Family Tree DNA — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 09:55:08 GMT

Heteroplasmy is the presence of more than one type of a genome (in this context, mitochondrial DNA) within a cell or organism. Put another way, a heteroplasmy is when more than one result exists for the same position in a person’s sequence.

If each result exists frequently enough in a person’s mtDNA, then the sequencing process will detect both results.
Identifying a heteroplasmy can be subjective.
In general, to identify a heteroplasmy, at least one third of the copies of mtDNA need to have each result.
A heteroplasmy may be written in several ways. The most common forms are, for example, 16093C/T or 16093Y, where the Y represents the C/T combination of alleles.

Symbol	Meaning	Symbol	Meaning
A	A (Adenine)	T	T (Thymine)
C	C (Cytosine)	G	G (Guanine)
U	U (Uracil)	S	C or G
M	A or C	Y	C or T
R	A or G	K	G or T
W	A or T	V	A or C or G
H	A or C or T	B	C or G or T
D	A or G or T	X	G or A or T or C
N	G or A or T or C

The following information is what we understand so far about how mtDNA is passed on from mother to child, and how this relates to heteroplasmy. As more research reveals additional facts and our understanding of these processes increases further, we will update this information accordingly.

Each human cell contains hundreds or thousands of mitochondria, and each mitochondrion contains several copies of its own DNA. When a mutation occurs, it does not mutate every copy of a person’s mtDNA; it occurs in only one copy. The mutation may become more frequent as that DNA is duplicated and passed on to the next generation. For the purposes of the discussion below, we will refer to the original mtDNA sequence as the ancestral genome, and to the mutated mtDNA sequence as the descendant genome.

At one point during oogenesis (the process by which the egg cell is produced), the number of mitochondria present in the cell is dramatically reduced from hundreds to perhaps as few as ten. These ten then multiply back into the hundreds in the offspring’s cells. If one or several of these ten happen to have a mutation, then the child will have a similar proportion of the descendant genome among the mitochondria in his or her cells. It generally takes several generations for a mutation to spread in this manner to most or all copies of a person’s mtDNA. This is same process by which new haplogroup branches evolve.

If the mother has a heteroplasmy, each of her children can experience any of these outcomes:

The child has a heteroplasmy at the same position. The child inherited some mitochondria with the ancestral genome and some with the descendant genome, so the child has some of each in his or her cells. The proportion of ancestral to descendant genome can vary in each generation and in each child.
The child has only the descendant genome. Only mitochondria with the mutation were passed on to the child. If the child is female, then her children will also inherit only descendant genome.
The child has only the ancestral genome. Only mitochondria without the mutation were passed on to the child. If the child is female, then her children will also inherit only the ancestral genome.

Because in each generation it is possible for the child to inherit the heteroplasmy, heteroplasmies may last for several or many generations. In each generation along the way, some children may inherit only the ancestral or only the descendant genome. Additionally, an mtDNA sequence test will not detect a heteroplasmy if one value is found in a great majority of the mitochondria and the other value is found in only a small minority. Therefore a heteroplasmy may be present which would not be detected. This makes it difficult to estimate the true frequency of heteroplasmy. Logically, if all mtDNA mutations progress through a state of heteroplasmy, then the frequency of heteroplasmy is equal to or greater than the mutation rates proposed for mtDNA (where these mutation rates are calculated using only those individuals with only the descendant genome).

We have no way to identify from a single person’s sequence which result in a heteroplasmy is the ancestral and which is the descendant. If you have a heteroplasmy and would be interested in determining which is the ancestral and which is the descendant result, you should test your most distant known relative along your maternal line, such as a second or third cousin. Because heteroplasmies can last several generations, the more distantly related you are to the relative you test, the more likely the mutation took place only on your branch of the family, and therefore the more likely that this relative’s result represents the ancestral.

While we do not examine or discuss medical implications of any person’s mtDNA full sequence, one of the questions we are asked most frequently is the medical or physiological implications of having a heteroplasmy. There is no more medical or physiological impact of having a heteroplasmy than there is of having only the mutation at the same position in the mtDNA. In other words, if you find that a mutation at this position is not known to be associated with any physiological issue, then the heteroplasmy is not, either. If you find that a mutation at this position is or may be associated with a physiological issue, then the heteroplasmy may potentially produce the same issue, or may produce a lesser form of it because not all of the mtDNA has the mutation.

What Y-DNA markers does Family Tree DNA test?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 15:44:08 GMT

Family Tree DNA tests 67 markers in its standard testing panels. We also offer all of these markers, and several dozen more, in advanced orders, where existing customers can order them individually or in any combination. See the chart below for a list of all markers offered in the standard panels. Because markers available as advanced orders may change over time, we recommend customers check their Order Tests and Upgrades section for the list of currently available markers.

Locus	DYS #	Locus	DYS #
1	DYS393	38	DYS531
2	DYS390	39	DYS578
3	DYS19	40	DYF395S1a
4	DYS391	41	DYF395S1b
5	DYS385a	42	DYS590
6	DYS385b	43	DYS537
7	DYS426	44	DYS641
8	DYS388	45	DYS472
9	DYS439	46	DYF406S1
10	DYS389-1	47	DYS511
11	DYS392	48	DYS425
12	DYS389-2	49	DYS413a
13	DYS458	50	DYS413b
14	DYS459a	51	DYS557
15	DYS459b	52	DYS594
16	DYS455	53	DYS436
17	DYS454	54	DYS490
18	DYS447	55	DYS534
19	DYS437	56	DYS450
20	DYS448	57	DYS444
21	DYS449	58	DYS481
22	DYS464a	59	DYS520
23	DYS464b	60	DYS446
24	DYS464c	61	DYS617
25	DYS464d	62	DYS568
26	DYS460	63	DYS487
27	Y-GATA-H4	64	DYS572
28	YCA II a	65	DYS640
29	YCA II b	66	DYS492
30	DYS456	67	DYS565
31	DYS607
32	DYS576
33	DYS570
34	CDY a
35	CDY b
36	DYS442
37	DYS438

How does one delete a subgroup using the new dashboard?

Family Tree DNA — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 10:20:47 GMT

To delete a subgroup in dashboard, go to the Groups and Subgroups Widget, find the group you want to delete, make sure all the group folders are in the collapsed position (click the collapse all button in the bottom left) and click, hold and drag the group to the trashcan in the bottom right corner of the widget. This will prompt you to see if you are sure you want to delete that group.

That said, we are aware of a bug that the delete function is broken under the surface...i.e. it looks like it works fine in the widget, but on the database side it's not being affected. We are working on this bug and should have it resolved soon.

Hello, I'm having a problem with the dashboard. I have about 20 groups and so have multiple tabs on the dashboard. The dashboard opens up with one of the tabs active and it tries to load the data into windows within that tab. Unfortunately, this is a group without any members yet and the application attempts to find non-existent data (member information). This hangs up the entire dashboard and I can't do anything with this project or any other project, because no other operation will be preformed while this task is running

Family Tree DNA — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 15:16:53 GMT

This is a known issue and will be resolved ASAP.

I am unable to log on and register with the new dashboard system. The page just froze on me and I was unable to complete the registration process. I am one of the two co-admins of the a project. Presumably because I've been unable to complete the dashboard process and accept the invitation my name is now no longer displayed on the main project page.

Family Tree DNA — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 09:53:14 GMT

The public display page gets its information from the database of registered users.

Please contact us via dashquestions@familytreedna.com with your registrations details, including your username and email address and project name(s), as well as any specific error you've seen and we'll get it fixed for you.

I am the primary Administrator for the a project. The announcement email said that I would receive a second email with registration information. I have not received that second email yet.

Family Tree DNA — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 10:17:13 GMT

Please check the email address on the site that is associated with the D-kit for the project (the original Group Administrator Login).

That email address is the one to which the original invitation was sent.

If your email is listed as the primary contact, please contact dashquestions@familytreedna.com and we will regenerate the invitation email.

It is a good idea to allow (or "whitelist") emails from "familytreedna.com" with your email provider to ensure you are able to receive emails from us.

When trying to load the dashboard, there is a file not found error for ~/GAP-Pages/framework_3.0.0.477.swz or you get an error "RLS Error 1 of 1"

Family Tree DNA — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 10:17:26 GMT

This is a rare problem that we have seen and from our research it appears that some ISP's block this file as they believe it to be malicious. We are looking for ways to get around the problem.

Once I have the Adm & Co-Admin Widget viewable, how do I go about adding a co-administrator?

Family Tree DNA — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 10:17:39 GMT

When you open the widget, you should see at the bottom of the widget a section called "Add a New Co-Administrator". There, you simply enter the name and email address of the person you want to invite and click "Add". This will generate the join email and send it straight to them.

The resync left my project groups (now directories) in disarray. I don't know how to re-order my groups (directories)! Please advise on how I can re-order my project groups.

Family Tree DNA — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 10:17:55 GMT

The old GAP pages actually had no "ordering" capabilities and was simply alphabetizing the groups when you ran the GAP. Because the new system gives you fine control over the order your groups are in, we couldn't just automatically alphabetize them when you load the widgets.

There are two answers here for the solution. First, in the Groups and Subgroups Widget, the YDNA Results Widget and the mtDNA Results Widget, when you have all your group folders collapsed (click the "Collapse All" button in the lower left), you can simply click, drag and drop the groups into whatever order you would like. This ordering is saved in the database so that you don't have to do it every time.

The second solution is one that we are working to implement as soon as possible. We are adding a button to each of these 3 widgets that will allow you to reorder your groups alphabetically, which will also be saved to the database.

Sorry for our being different but we are co-administrators and co-equal. Please help facilitate that by given equal access to us both (practically I am webmaster and manage the site but does the management of relation to other groups and information sources.) We both invite, help and frankly spend our own money to facilitate our group's growth.

Family Tree DNA — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 10:16:56 GMT

Because of the nature of the authentication system, we have to have a single person indicated as the primary administrator. The only thing that the 'primary' admin can do that the 'co-admin' cannot is in the primary can add and remove co-admins and dictate what widgets the coadmin can access. Everything else is equal.

I went to "add Widgets" and clicked on the down arrow. The menu loaded but it loaded "down" and was below my screen. I could not get it up to select the widgets I wished to see.

Family Tree DNA — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 10:16:38 GMT

The problem with the add widget list opening downward is that the height of the browser window is not tall enough to allow the list to completely fit so it drops downward instead. We are implementing a solution for this but in the meantime, you can click on the add widget box and use the arrow keys to scroll the widget you want to open and once highlighted, you can hit the "enter" key to open it.

My screen is too cluttered. How can I clean up my screen?

Family Tree DNA — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 10:15:47 GMT

If you feel that your screen has become too cluttered, clicking the "Tile" button on the lower right of the dashboard (looks like a square with 4 boxes in it) will arrange your widgets into a grid, removing all overlaps.

If I contribute my mtDNA results to research will my personal information remain anonymous?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:32:26 GMT

Your personal information such as your name and kit number is not provided to researchers. The data sent to the researchers is your lab ID, which is different from your kit number, your haplogroup, and your mtDNA full sequence results. If available, your maternal geographic origins as provided to Family Tree DNA and any ethnic or more exact geographic origins you provide Family Tree DNA specifically for the study are included. Family Tree DNA may act as intermediary to contact you if the researchers have additional questions about your origins.

If I contribute my mtDNA results to research, will I be informed of any studies that are published which use my results?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:35:19 GMT

Once a study is published, we attempt to inform research study participants that their results were used. However, if the results are published with the study as part of the supporting data, then those results are accessible to other researchers for use in their studies as well. We cannot track published study data and its use in other publications; therefore we are unable to track or notify you whenever additional studies are published using your results.

If I contribute my mtDNA results to research, will I be informed of new discoveries made with my results?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:35:55 GMT

If your results are used in a study then once the study is published we will attempt to provide you with a copy of the study. We do not provide an analysis or summary of the specific impact this study has on your results. If the haplogroup tree is expanded as a result of the study, we will update all results in our database based on the new haplogroup tree.

If I contribute my mtDNA results to research, what is the topic of the studies my results may be used for?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:36:28 GMT

Study topics may include developments in the mtDNA haplogroup tree and origins of haplogroups, histories of particular groups of people, research into medical conditions, and others. Many studies will combine multiple topics. For example, a study focusing on a particular population group may also expand the haplogroup tree adding to our understanding of some of its branches.

If I contribute my mtDNA results to research, what results are used?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:36:58 GMT

Only mtDNA full sequence results may be contributed to research. If you contribute your results then we may also gather additional information from you about your geographic or ethnic origins.

Can I contribute my mtDNA results to research if I have not already tested my mtDNA full sequence?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:38:35 GMT

No. We only record the agreement to use results for science if mtDNA full sequence testing is completed.

Can I withdraw my participation in research?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:39:14 GMT

If your results have not yet been provided to a study, yes, you may withdraw your agreement. Please note that many studies must publish the mtDNA full sequence results as part of their supporting data. The results remain anonymous, but once they are published they are available for other researchers to use in their studies as well.

Is there a time limit on when I can agree to participate in research?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:39:40 GMT

No, in general, there is not a time limit for agreeing to participate in research. However, if you wish to participate in a specific study, you will need to agree before the set of participating results is contributed to the study. If we contact you to ask if you agree to participate in a study, we will notify you of any time limitations for contribution.

Is Dr. Behar the only researcher who will use my results if I agree to contribute my results to research?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:40:15 GMT

No. Most studies involve multiple researchers. Some research teams aside from Dr. Behar will contact us about the possibility of contributing results to their study. We are pleased to offer our customers who are interested in contributing to science these additional opportunities.

If I contribute my mtDNA results to research, what happens to my results after they are used in a study?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:40:42 GMT

This will depend on how the study used the results and how it publishes its supporting data. Many times, studies will publish the mtDNA full sequence results that were used. This may be in the form of a supporting data file or as an upload into a scientific database. Once these results are published, they may be accessed by anyone, including other researchers for future studies. The results remain anonymous.

How can I contribute my mtDNA results to research?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:41:43 GMT

If you have taken the mtDNA full sequence test, you may agree to allow your results to be contributed to science by sending an email to fgs@familytreedna.com stating your kit number and your agreement to contribute. Your agreement does not guarantee that your results will be included in a published study or that they will be added to a scientific database.

If I contribute my mtDNA results to research, will my results be immediately contributed to a study?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:42:05 GMT

If a study is currently seeking full sequences and yours fits the haplogroup or population it is looking for, then your results will be immediately contributed to that study. Otherwise we store your agreement until a study begins that has need of your results. Agreement to allow the use of your results for science does not guarantee that a study will begin that will use your sequence.

If I contribute my mtDNA results to research, how long does it take for the study to be published?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:42:28 GMT

Family Tree DNA does not have information on the progress or publication date of a study in advance. While some studies may be completed and published within weeks after results are contributed most studies take months or over a year to complete. In some cases, if another study is published that goes beyond the scope of the study currently in progress; a study will be discontinued before publication. Even when a study is complete and accepted by a publisher the researcher sometimes will not know when it will be published until it is actually published.

Why should I contribute my results to research?

Family Tree DNA — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:42:49 GMT

Donating your results to a study is an opportunity to help the scientific community advance research into our shared maternal origins. Contributing your results can also hold advantages for you, especially if you are interested in your haplogroup branch assignment. The more data the researchers have access to, the more likely they are to find more specific haplogroup branches that apply to you, and the more they can discover and learn about a haplogroup’s history and origins. Thousands of Family Tree DNA customers have tested their full sequences; their results are an important addition to the results collected directly by researchers. Once a study is published, we can incorporate the new discoveries and provide better haplogroup descriptions and refined haplogroup assignments to our customers, including you.