Members of the project are placed in one of over 40 groups, which were created using a combination of Y-DNA STR markers, Big Y-700 SNPs, and traditional genealogical research that can identify common ancestors by name. Groups are divided by haplogroup and subdivided by SNP branch and/or lineage. A new group is typically created when the project has two or more members who probably share a common ancestor within the most recent 15 generations. If you are newly tested or newly joined, you will be placed in a group as quickly as possible.

Members for whom there are no matches are in Group 9 and will be moved to a new group if a match is identified. If you have matches who are not in the project and they share the Payne surname, feel free to invite them to join the project. This will increase the likelihood that can create a new group.

Members that only have matches with small kits are in Group 10. These matches need additional testing before we can place the member into a new group. Members for whom additional testing is needed to confirm a haplogroup are in Group 11.

If you are currently in Group 9, 10 or 11, and you believe that traditional genealogy places you in an existing group, please let us know. Also, if you believe you are in an incorrect group, please let us know.