Testing a relative

[Jaxjen]

I would like to purchase a test for a relative, to test his Y line DNA as he is the last in this line.

I have a few questions:

Does anyone have a handy link explaining DNA testing for genealogy? I have looked around, and don't quite see what I am looking for. I am hoping for one that explains the safety (or lack of autosomal testing) and also the benefits of Y chromosome testing?

Once I pay for the kit and send it off, will I ever have access to the results? Can I be the administrator of the account? How does that work? I would hate to pay for the test, but not be able to see any results.

Thanks
Jennifer

[Carolyn1955]

I can only answer one of your questions even if I am somewhat a newbie here. I ordered and paid for my sister an mtDNAPlus test. I used my email address when placing the order so that I would receive her kit number, password to her new account via email in order to watch for her results and to consult others when the results come in. The kit can be mailed to whatever address you put on the order. Since she has no clue of anything about DNA, I am her administrator and she is my donor so to speak. The benefits of having her tested is for the female line of my family as it traces mother to mother to mother, etc. My goal is to establish kinship as there is a possiblity that we may not actually have the same parents (long story there). I can't answer your other questions, but her kit is being shipped out to the lab tomorrow and I am very excited!
Carolyn

I would like to purchase a test for a relative, to test his Y line DNA as he is the last in this line.

I have a few questions:

Does anyone have a handy link explaining DNA testing for genealogy? I have looked around, and don't quite see what I am looking for. I am hoping for one that explains the safety (or lack of autosomal testing) and also the benefits of Y chromosome testing?

Once I pay for the kit and send it off, will I ever have access to the results? Can I be the administrator of the account? How does that work? I would hate to pay for the test, but not be able to see any results.

Thanks
Jennifer

[vinnie]

See the "FAQ" link at the top of the page (especially, "After I Test") for answers to these questions.

[T E Peterman]

Over the years, I have found Family Tree DNA to be very cooperative & flexible when it comes to issues of one person buying a kit for another person. If you are concerned about losing your investment, ask them to not charge your credit card until the kit is received back from the tested subject.

I normally use my e-mail as the contact. When the kit goes out, I have the other person's address entered. After the kit is returned, I change the address to mine with a note that it is c/o.

I do this because some people are concerned about their DNA being linked to them as an individual. In some cases (those who live nearby), I have the kit sent to my home address as a spare, hand deliver the kit & have them mail it back to Family Tree DNA.

Timothy Peterman

[Jaxjen]

Thank you all for replying.

Jennifer