We’re currently experiencing a DNA test boom in the United States and all around the world! As technology improves and demand increases, more and more DNA kits are showing up on store shelves: tests for ancestry, tests for health, traits, and even fitness. So how do you know which are the best ones? Do your research!
Probably the most potentially life-changing DNA test on the market is the home patenrity test. It wasn’t that long ago that you had to go to a doctor or clinic to do this type of testing-whether you needed results for court or just your own peace of mind- and it cost hundreds of dollars. Now you can get paternity info for an affordable price. A paternity test is important and life-changing because results can affect relationships at a deep level, with long-lasting consequences for children and entire families. So it’s important to choose wisely – here are some things to look for.Tips for Choosing a Home Paternity Test
Easy: The idea of taking a paternity test is stressful enough-you don’t need it to be compounded by complicated procedures. The kit (and the website for the lab) should have clear instructions on how to collect the DNA correctly the first time so that there won’t be delays in the testing process later on down the line.
Fast: Waiting a long time for the results of any type of test is the worst, isn’t it? A good paternity test lab provides options for you so you can get your report as quickly as possible. At the minimum, you should get results posted in two (2) days or less after samples arrive at the lab.
Accurate: You have to be able to trust that your home paternity test results are accurate. You just do. The best indicator that you’re likely to get accurate results is to choose a highly-accredited DNA lab. This type of lab maintains strict standards for handling samples and testing, and is regularly audited by outside regulatory agencies to ensure it is in compliance with or exceed industry-accepted standards. Not all companies who sell paternity test services are accredited, so be sure to check for accreditation information on the box and/or website.
Confidential: For most people, getting a paternity test is an intensely private family experience and not something they want publicized. It’s important to find a home paternity test lab for which confidentiality and security are high priorities. Customers should have access to a secure online account where they can get updates on their test and where their results report is posted. And customer service representatives should require proof of identification before releasing any info over the phone or in print.
Affordable: For a simple paternity test (one possible father+ one child + the mother), the cost should be less than $200 total, including the lab fee and retail price of the kit. There are labs that charge hundreds of dollars for this type of paternity testing, yet the processes are identical to the ones for more affordable at-home tests.
Options: There are times when a possible father is not available for testing. A good DNA testing lab also offers family reconstruction testing to help determine paternity or family relationships testing other family members. This type of test costs more due to the more extensive analysis required, but it should definitely be an option.
Great Reviews: Every lab is going to say they’re the greatest and the best, but don’t take their word for it. Read reviews by real customers and learn first-hand about their experiences. Not all reviews are going to be positive, but for a good lab, the positive reviews will far outweigh the number of negative ones and the lab will respond thoughtfully to customer concerns.
Do You Need Court-admissible Paternity Test Results?
A critical thing to remember is that-no matter which test you choose-results for a home paternity test are generally not court-admissible. So if you need a test for legal purposes (child support/custody/immigration/inheritance rights), it is critical that you contact the lab of your choice directly before doing the test so that they can make arrangements to have DNA collections witnessed.
IDENTIGENE DNA Paternity Test
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Jennifer says
My brother died a few years back and now It’s being brought to my attention he had a child he didn’t know about.. If this child is his I would like to know so how can I find out if it’s his in this situation
Admin says
Hi, Jennifer. If the child is under the age of 18, testing would require the written consent of their parent. There are many ways to approach this, in terms of who can and should be tested, but it can definitely be done if enough close relatives (including the child’s mother) agree to test. I suggest you give us a call directly at 888-404-4363 (M-F, 9 AM to 5:30 PM) to consult with our experts. They can explain both your options and pricing. Hope this helps!
otis says
can i do a parternity test without the mother
Identigene says
Hi, Otis. Yes, you can. In most cases, the mother’s DNA is not needed in order to confirm paternity-test results,so chances are good you’d be OK. The reason we recommend submitting the mother’s DNA too (and why we include her in the lab fee) is “just in case.”
Mary says
I want to know how long it takes to come back I mailed it 11/29/2017 and why when you sign up for it it say something about 119 for the price but when you get the box it say 89 dollars…..
Identigene says
Hi, Mary. If your box says $89, then you have an older kit. Give us a call at 800-344-9583 and we’ll be happy to help you with payment.
Natasha says
I dont know how to locate my babyfather or his family to dna test an l dont know his name or age or ssi at to find him