IDENTIGENE DNA Paternity Test: How it Works

by HOMEDNA on 12/01/2012

You are a mother and a little voice is asking, ‘What if Eric is not the dad and it’s really Michael?  or ‘What if I’m allowing my child to bond with a man who isn’t really his father?’

Or maybe you are a father, harboring a doubt that that you have been told the truth. Your friends tell you rumors about your girlfriend’s infidelity or you remember being ‘broken up’ around the time the baby was conceived.

Guess what?  If you want peace of mind, it’s time for an IDENTIGENE DNA paternity test.

How?  It’s the easiest paternity test out there! First, head to your nearest major drugstore. IDENTIGENE can be found at  retailers including CVS, Rite Aid and Walmart.

How it Works

1. Now that you have the kit: Open it! There are three sets of swabs, an order form, envelopes for the DNA samples and instructions.

2. Next, read the instructions and fill out the order form and envelopes-this makes the next steps much easier! You can register and pay for your test online or you’ll need to fill out the order form and include your method of payment for the lab fee.

3. You are ready to grab DNA samples!  Take each swab and gently but thoroughly rub each of the three swabs on the inside of the possible father’s cheek and place in the envelope labeled with the correct name. Now, swab the child and place the swabs in his/her envelope.  If the mother is present, swab her too; if not, don’t worry! Our laboratory will still be able to provide paternity answers. Adding ‘Mom’ gives us more DNA to examine and it can act as a “DNA insurance policy” if testing possible father with the child yield inconclusive results.

4. Now, put all the forms and envelopes into the postage-paid envelope and drop it into the mail. If you can’t wait for snail mail, feel free to use a priority mail service to overnight the envelope to us for quicker shipping.

That’s it! Painless! Your results will be ready two (2) business days after the samples arrive at our lab in Cincinnati. If you prefer, you can select 1-day or same-day results for an additional fee.

NERVOUS? Don’t be! Taking the IDENTIGENE DNA Paternity Test is a smart decision. We use the best DNA technology available and our test is guaranteed accurate. Our laboratory is accredited by the AABB (American Association of Blood Banks) and L.A.B (Laboratory Accreditation Bureau). You can always call us with questions, at any step of the process. We are here to help.

TAKING A LEGAL PATERNITY TEST? These instructions above are for the at-home test. The first step in a legal paternity test with IDENTIGENE is to give us a call. You can also read more about legal testing here.

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter! If you have questions about paternity tests or other DNA testing services, please contact our Client Support Center at 888-404-4363, Mon-Fri  from 8:30 AM to 6 PM Eastern Time. Our friendly, expert representatives are ready and happy to help. Get answers anytime by visiting our Help Center. 

Comments

    • Dear Damian,
      Results are available two business days after our laboratory receives the samples. The delivery time will vary depending on which mail carrier and method you choose. If you want to check on your individual case, I encourage you to contact Identigene client support at 888-404-4363 or login to http://www.dnatesting.com and use your login and password to check your order status. You can also conduct an online chat with one of our client support staff during normal business hours. Thank you.

      Reply

      • What if you want to keep it secret and cant get a saliva sample are there other samples I can use to get the results?

        Reply

        • Hi, Samantha! The answer to your question depends on a lot of factors, but be advised we require written consent for all participants. So going about this secretly is not recommended. For paternity tests we can use samples other than cheek cells, but extracting DNA from, say, a toothbrush or hair is much more labor-intensive for the lab. So the testing fee is $399 instead of the $89 for cheek cells. We recommend discussing the particulars of your situation with an expert in our Client Support Center. They are open M-F, 9 AM to 5:30 PM Eastern Time. All information shared in this call is confidential. Hope this helps!

          Reply

          • Hi if I just used salava and couldn’t get the cheek as well will the results still be accurate

          • Hi, Jon. This is a cheek-cell test and not a saliva test. There’s a possibility some cheek cells may have mingled with your saliva. Have you already used up all the swabs and sent them in? If not, I suggest you discard the others and use the remaining swabs to actually scrape the insides of your cheeks and gums. If you’ve already sent the swabs in, the lab will let you know if they need you to collect samples again or if they have enough materials to conduct the test. If you have further questions, please feel free to contact us directly at 888-404-4363. Thanks!

          • Is it possible that you can swab other family members that is blood related like the dad other child and see the DNA like that too just incase the dad not there

          • Hi can I swab both my kids and myself with one kit as I’m the father or do I have to buy 2 kits one for each child?

          • Hi, David. You can do two kids with one kit (instead of using one set of swabs for the mother), but keep in mind you’ll need to pay two lab fees since we’re answering two separate questions for you. The easiest thing to do is, once you have your kit, give us a call and we’ll help you set up and pay for the test: 800-344-9583.

      • Hello i was trying to pay for my DNA test online I open up an account but it won’t let me go to it because it says I can’t open it until my DNS pay for but I’m trying to pay for it online because the center is closed

        Reply

          • How long should you swab a child and father’s cheek for accurate results? 30 second , 1 minute ? Does it matter ??

          • Hi, Shawna. Instructions say 30 seconds, which is usually enough if the swabbing is vigorous. Try to avoid the gum area, since that tends to collect unnecessary spit. It’s the cheek cells that are needed for testing. If the swabs seem a little wet anyway, hold the swabs upright in the air for a minute or so to allow them to dry a little before placing in the paper envelopes.

    • Hello was wondering if alleged father is paying for test to be done but iam the mother of the child that is to be tested but father is setting up a account online to retrieve the results how can i retrieve reresults as well he does not want to give me his email or psw but iam submitting my dna as well ?how can i make sure that iam notified when results are available

      Reply

      • Hi, Millie! You need to contact us directly at 888-404-4363 and one of our representatives will be happy to help you and make sure you see the results.

        Reply

        • Well my child’s father just took a test an the email said he was 0% but the paperwork says he is 99.9% can u remail us a letter because he misplaced it

          Reply

          • To make any sort of request regarding test results, please give us a direct call at 888-404-4363. Thanks!

      • Laverna,
        Results are available two business days after our laboratory receives the samples. The delivery time will vary depending on which mail carrier and method you choose. If you want to check on your individual case, I encourage you to contact Identigene client support at 888-404-4363 or login to http://www.dnatesting.com and use your login and password to check your order status. You can also conduct an online chat with one of our client support staff during normal business hours. Thank you.

        Reply

    • Damian,
      Are you looking at your results statement? Please contact our client support staff so that they can go over your results statement and answer any of your questions. Thank you. The number is 888-404-4363.

      Reply

    • Hi Curious Mom,

      Yes, besides the purchase of the kit, there is an additional lab fee of $129. This is for testing in the lab. You can pay for the lab fee by phone, money order or debit/credit card. Inside the kit is a Paternity Test Order From. On step 1 you will choose your payment method, and fill in the form accordingly. If you would like to pay by phone you can reach IDENTIGENE at 1-888-404-4363. Please feel free to ask any other questions you may have. Thanks!

      Reply

  4. Can the mom call in to get the results if the father did the test without her consent? Will he be notified that she called?

    Reply

    • Hi Melissa,

      As a legal guardian of the child, you have the right to access your child’s paternity test, even if you were not included in the testing. You will need to contact IDENTIGENE at 1-888-404-4363 and send in a Report Release Form along with your photo ID and the government issued birth certificate of the child. This way we can verify that you are a legal guardian of the child.

      In regards to notification, we do not notify others on the account when a legal guardian is granted access to the account. All individuals who have access to the account will have access to information on the account as well as notes.

      Reply

    • Hi Rick,

      You are more than welcome to call IDENTIGENE at 1-888-404-4363 to check the status of your case. Another way you can find out if your samples have been received is through email. We send an email to the email address provided on the order form once we receive samples, when testing begins and when results are ready to view. We would be happy to speak with you about any other questions you may have!

      Reply

  6. What if I’m the child? My dad is deceased and I want to take the test with my brother?? How would that work?? Please tell me

    Reply

    • Hi Lauren,

      In cases where the possible father is deceased, we offer Family Reconstruction DNA Testing. Through this process, we can test other relatives to the possible father (in this case, your brother, other siblings, possible grandparents, etc.). There are many variables to this kind of testing and we’d recommend that you contact our friendly client support staff to discuss your case. They can help you understand the different testing options available and who you might test with to get the most conclusive answers. Please call us at (888) 404-4363, Mon-Fri, 9am-8pm ET and we’d be happy to help you further!

      Reply

    • Hi Latifah,
      Thank you for your patience! The laboratory fee for processing the test is $129 when you send in your samples after purchasing the IDENTIGENE DNA Paternity Test Kit. This fee is if you would like to go the non-legal route. If you have questions about doing court-admissible testing, you may call our friendly client support for more information and getting it set up. The legal test upgrade is $329.
      I hope this information is helpful. There is a wealth of information at our website and please feel free to call us at 1-888-404-4363, Monday-Friday 9AM-8PM ET with any further questions you may have. Thank you for your comment!

      Reply

      • Hello, Identigene, you recently did a test for my daughter and her father this was a personal test NOT a legal test. I was confronted by my daughter demanding to know who her father is as your test, your “personal” test, showed he was not her father. When asked how this test was taken she said, and I quote “I bought the test and then swabbed my cheek then I sealed it and sent it to him he swabbed his cheek and mailed it in”. I asked her did you see him swab his cheek? You watched him do it? Her answer? “No, but why would he lie.”. My answer, How would I know ask him! I was with ONLY ONE MAN unless she is the Antichrist (which I am beginning to believe) that man your test dismissed as her father is her father and you need to send her a disclaimer about how that “personal” test can be tampered with Or I will seek legal recourse for Defamation of Character against your company!

        Reply

        • Hi, C. Anytime DNA collection is done at home and not under the supervision of a disinterested third party, there is a possibility of tampering by any of the parties. This is why results of an at-home test are not admissible in court. Our Terms and Conditions explain this, and there is a disclaimer on the results report itself stating: “Identigene is not responsible for the integrity of these samples prior to arriving at the laboratory.” A customer can always opt instead to use our kit to do a legal, witnessed test whose results are valid in court. You can see our Terms and Conditions here: http://dnatesting.com/paternity-testing-terms-and-conditions/

          Reply

  8. If you are trying to conduct the test in discretion, is there something else you can submit from the dad, like a toothbrush or hair?

    Reply

    • Hi J.T,
      Great question! The preferred collection method for DNA samples industry wide is a cheek cell sample which is taken by swabbing the inside of the cheek in the mouth using a special swab that we provide in our kits. This is the easiest sample to work with and any other type of sample will be considered a special specimen. All special specimens require an additional fee of $400 to process and we cannot guarantee that we will be able to produce results with a special specimen. We also require a consent signature for ALL participants being tested. With hair, we would need at least 10 hair strands with the follicles attached. You will need to contact us at 888-404-4363 for an approval to send the specimen into us. All special specimens must be approved prior to being accepted. Have in mind we still need a consent signature from the participants. I hope this answers your question. Feel free to call us at 888-404-4363 with any further questions you may have and we will be more than happy to assist you! Thank you for your comment!

      Reply

  9. i was wondering once i get the swab from the swab from the”father” do i have to mail in the samples right away in other words does tha sample have a time limit or expire?

    Reply

    • Hi Dawn Father,
      The swabs after collection have a shelf life of 6 months. After collection it is recommended you do not place them back in the plastic casing the swabs came in. Anything after 6 months we would recommend for a recollection because the sample swabs may expire. I hope this information is helpful. If you have any more questions, please call our friendly client support at 1-888-404-GENE, Monday-Friday 9AM-8PM ET. Thank you for your comment!

      Reply

  10. Hello. I want to do this test discreetly. If I can get the alleged father to provide a swab specimen without knowing exactly what it’s for, does he have to sign a consent form. I know it sounds silly but I have an idea on how to get the collection but as I said since I want to be discreet I was just wondering if the consent form was mandatory since it’s not a special sample, hair etc…? Also I saw the specimen has a shelf life of 6 months but it was mentioned not to place the swab collection back in the plastic packaging it came in, so I was wondering where to store it until I’m ready to send?

    Reply

    • Hi Tammy,
      Thank you for your question! Anyone participating will need to provide a consent signature for their sample even if it is not a special specimen. DNA tests at IDENTIGENE require all samples to have consent, and minors under the age of 18 require a signature from their legal guardian. Our sample swabs do have a shelf life of 6 months and can be stored in the collection envelopes after swabbing. As long as you keep them in a dry, room temperature area, they can last up to 6 months. I hope this helps in answering your question, if you have more questions, please call our friendly client support at 1-888-404-GENE, Monday-Friday 9AM-8PM ET. Thank you for your comment!

      Reply

  11. Do you have to pay for the lab test right away or can it wait until you got all the money to pay for it ?

    Reply

    • Hi Danasia,
      Great question! Our lab will not begin testing without full payment. After DNA has been collected, the swabs are good for up to 6 months if stored in the envelopes. You may also send in your samples and we can hold on to them for 60 days, but our lab will not begin testing until we have full payment. I hope this answers your question. If you have any more questions or concerns, please call our friendly client support at 1-888-404-GENE, Monday-Friday 9AM-8PM ET. Thank you for your comment!

      Reply

  12. Can someone tell me when they will take out the 129 to do the testing from the fathers account. When they receive the test or how does that work?

    Reply

    • Hi Laura,
      If the payment information was included on the order form the payment will be taken out once we receive the kit and process the samples. Our lab cannot begin testing without having payment. Have in mind, if you sent the kit in our envelope, it can take anywhere from 5-10 mailing days for our lab to receive your kit. We will also be sending an email notification, if you provided an email address, to let you know the samples have arrived. I hope this information helps. If you have any more questions, please contact our friendly client support at 1-888-404-GENE, Monday-Friday 9AM-8PM ET. Thank you for your comment!

      Reply

  13. I am wanting a dna test for my self and someone who i think is my dad but he is in a different state can i still use this product and how does it work

    Reply

    • Hi Mary,
      Thank you for your interest in IDENTIGENE. If you are doing a test for personal reasons, there are several options for sending in your samples. If you buy a home paternity test kit at your local pharmacy (available at Rite Aid, CVS and Walmart pharmacies) you can send the collection materials to the person who lives in another state so they can collect their samples, or they can simply buy their own kit in order to collect their samples.

      You can either have the other person send the samples to you so that you can send all of the samples in at the same time, or they can be sent in to us separately. If they are going to be sent in separately, we suggest that you call us to pre-pay for the testing so that we can give you a case number to write on the specimen envelopes. This will help to ensure that all of the samples are linked to the same case when they arrive at our laboratory. You can also order a test from us over the phone and we will send the kit supplies to each person directly.

      If you need the test for legal reasons you will need to give us a call to set up your account so that we can go over the details of a legal test with you and schedule a collection appointment for each participant at a third party facility.
      If you have any more questions or concerns, please call us at 1-888-404-GENE, Monday-Friday 9AM-8PM ET. Thank you for your comment and patience!

      Reply

  14. I am wondering if test samples that are collected and frozen until sent out still work? My son’s father bought it for his piece of mind and froze the test samples until pay day. Will the test still be valid?

    Reply

    • Hi Stephanie,
      We recommend the samples to maintain in a room temperature area until they are sent. Do you know how long they were in the freezer? Freezing them may weaken the DNA and our lab would not be able to test the samples. If this is the case, the lab will request a recollection in order to obtain strong and clean samples. Recollections are free of charge, if required. Our friendly client support will contact you if this is necessary and arrange the shipping of any necessary materials. If the samples are able to be tested on, you will receive results based on the samples sent in and recollection will not be necessary. I hope this information is helpful. If you have any more questions or concerns, please call us at 1-888-404-GENE, Monday-Friday 9AM-6PM ET. Thank you for your comment!

      Reply

    • Thank you for contacting Identigene. If the seal is broken on a sample envelope or mailing envelopes, please include a handwritten note stating you are aware the envelope was resealed by you. We will test the samples sent in to us, with the note of explanation attached on a broken seal. We have no way of confirming exactly who it was that resealed the envelopes, so a note is required. If you have any additional questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us 1-888-404-4363 Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. E.T. and we will be happy to assist you.

      Reply

    • Good afternoon Ashley,
      Since everyone gets half of their DNA from the mother and half from father, we can determine the type of relationship for siblings:

      – Full vs. Half
      – Full vs. unrelated
      – Half vs. unrelated

      The Sibling DNA test is $399, and results are typically available in 5 business days; this does depend on how your samples react to testing. You can order this test directly from us over the phone and we will send kit supplies out to each person for collection. To ensure that you select the correct test for your situation we recommend you contact us at your earliest convenience.

      The test results for siblings will be one of four categories: strongly supported (conclusive), somewhat supported, inconclusive or not supported. We do strongly recommend including a sample from the biological mother (both mothers when relevant). There is a greater chance that the results will come back inconclusive without her.

      I hope this information helps. If you have any additional questions or concerns, or are interested in a Sibling test please feel free to contact us 888-404-4363 and we will be happy to assist you.

      Reply

  17. I was wondering if I wanted to know if this guy is the father of my son but my son died at birth and all I have is a hair sample can you guys do the hair DNA test

    Reply

    • Good afternoon Jackie,
      Thank you for contacting Identigene. Any other type of sample (that is not a buccal swab) is considered a special specimen. All special specimens require an additional lab fee of $400, and we cannot guarantee that we will be able to produce results with a special specimen.

      All special specimens need to be pre-approved by our lab and often times require a specialized collection kit to be sent to you. Please contact us 888-404-4363 for an approval and instructions on how to send the sample us.

      I hope this information helps. If you have any additional questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us 888-404-4363 and we will be happy to assist you.

      Reply

  18. Hi can the swabs be sent in from different locations? Example: the mother and child lives in California and the alleged paternal grandparents live in ohio, so can mom and baby swab come in separate from paternal grandparents?

    Reply

    • Hi, Tonya. Yes! What we recommend doing is that the participant paying for the test call in to our Client Support Center and pre-pay by phone. Then your testing will have a case number assigned to it before any samples are remitted. Samples can then be submitted separately from California and Ohio (be sure to add the case number to the paperwork) and the samples will be connected by our scientists at the lab. The number for Client Support is 888-404-4363 and we are open M-F from 9 AM to 5:30 PM Eastern Time.

      Reply

    • Hi, Tee. The short answer is yes, but I highly recommend you contact our experts at 888-404-4363 to get details and pricing. As a rule, the more participants in the test (alleged father, mother, etc.), the more conclusive results will be.

      Reply

    • Hi, Pheobe. For security reasons, we don’t give any results via email. I suggest you contact our Client Support Center at 888-404-4363 (M-F, 9 AM to 5:30 PM Eastern Time) at your earliest convenience, and they can help you set up an online account.

      Reply

    • Hi, Sarra. Lab fee is $89 for each test. So your total lab fees would be $178. If you have additional questions, please contact our Client Support Center: 888-404-4363.

      Reply

  22. If I can only get the swabs of my child and myself will the results still be 100% correct? I just want to know for myself but I am a legal guardian.

    Reply

    • You didn’t mention if you are the mother or potential father, but I’m going to assume you are the father. In most cases, we can determine paternity with just the potential father’s and the child’s DNA. And since you are a legal guardian, you would not need the mother’s consent, although we always recommend parents to be open and honest with each other in these matters. Please keep in mind that in some cases where a conclusive result cannot be obtained without the mother’s DNA, the lab may request that she send in a sample. Please contact our Client Support Center directly at 888-404-4363 and they’ll be happy to answer other questions you may have and/or arrange testing. Hope this helps!

      Reply

    • Hi, Shay. Once samples are collected, they are “good” to test for six months. Does this answer your question?

      Reply

  24. The alleged father of my child took a test, as the mother of the child I took the test as well. We are fairly certain that he is the father, because he looks so similar to the child. The paternity test came back saying that he had a 0% chance of being the father. When we sent in the test we did not seal each individual envelope, we only folded over the tops of each envelope. Could this effect the accuracy of the test results?

    Reply

    • Hi, Kate. If there had been a problem with the samples and how they were mailed, chances are excellent that this problem would have been caught by the lab and you would have been asked to submit new samples.

      Reply

  25. I payed for the lab costs before i even sent in the kit. But i had forgot to write case number on their. Can i still get results

    Reply

  26. Hello, I wanted to use the DNA test on my father but he wasn’t liking the idea too much. Would I be able to use it on my half sister who I know is his daughter to find out my results that way?

    Reply

    • Hi, Raelinda. Yes, you can. The cost for this test is $399 since more extensive analysis is required. Please call us at 888-404-4363 and one of our experts can give you all the details and arrange the test if you decide to do it.

      Reply

  28. If a child had 6 white blood cell transfusion in a course of a weekend, how long would it take for blood dna to disappear in the childs body?

    Reply

    • Hi, Renea! It takes several days at least. However, when doing a paternity test following a transfusion, you want to alert the lab that the child had one, so they can be on the lookout for any lingering effects. You can alert the lab on the order form when submitted, or you can call us at 888-404-4363 and it will be added to the case notes. Hope this helps!

      Reply

  29. Hi im wanting a dna test on my second child but the father is now deceased. I have an older child with the same father is it possible to test the older sibiling in place of the father ..

    Reply

    • Hi! I answered your question under your other comment, but didn’t see at that time that the father is deceased. So the answer is yes, but the lab fee is $399.

      Reply

    • Hi! You can test the two children to determine if there’s a full siblingship or half siblingship relationship, yes. However, because it requires much more analysis, the price for this test is $399. To test the child against the possible father would be only $89. For more info, or to set up the test, contact us directly at 888-404-4363 (M-F, 9 AM to 5:30 PM Eastern). Hope this helps!

      Reply

  32. I did a dna test in July 2014, but never sent it in. It’s stored at room temperature. But is it still good for testing?

    Reply

    • Hi, Renay. We accept samples as long as they were taken within the last 6 months. I suggest taking samples again before submitting them for testing.

      Reply

  33. Why does it say not to put the swabs back into the original packaging? Will this cause contamination? I accidently did for my son’s and then realized it and took them out, about 3 days later. Please let me know before I send them in if I need to redo it. Thanks

    Reply

    • Hi, Sarah. In your case it’s probably OK. Putting them in the included paper envelopes helps them dry faster and prevents the growth of mold, which can contaminate the samples. Go ahead and send them in. If the lab determines that the DNA isn’t viable for testing, they will simply ask for a recollection. It won’t affect your results. If you have more questions, feel free to contact us at 888-404-4363. Thanks!

      Reply

    • Hi, Michelle. For security reasons, results are posted to the secure online account you create at DNAtesting.com. Once they’re ready, you can either access the results there or call us at 888-404-4363. An alert will be sent to the email address associated with the account when (1) samples arrive at the lab, and (2) when results are ready. So be sure to keep an eye on your inbox. All the best!

      Reply

    • Hi, Nate. Three swabs per participant are included, so nine total. Enough to test one alleged father, one child, and the mother (her participation is optional).

      Reply

  36. Hello the potential father took my child went and done the test and he has come back to me saying the child is not his as it says 0% how is that possible and I was not swabed could they have done it wrong

    Reply

    • Hi, Kiesha. We’re a highly-accredited lab that follows very strict processes and protocols for testing. What most likely happened is one of the following: (1) He really is not the biological father, or (2) He submitted someone else’s DNA and said it was his. The mother’s DNA is generally not required in order to get a conclusive results. If that DNA had been needed, the lab would have requested it. At any rate, these results are not court-admissible because he did an at-home, peace-of-mind test. In order for results to be accepted in court, a legal paternity test needs to be performed. Hope this helps!

      Reply

        • It means there’s a 0 chance that he’s the biological father. It’s a probability of paternity ratio…look at it as being the “odds” of his being the father. Had results considered him to be the biological father, that number could have been something like 4,134,001,000 to 1 that he is the father. So 0 to 1 means there’s no chance based on the samples we were given.

          Reply

    • Hi, Sam. Unused buccal swabs remain viable as long as they remain in the sealed plastic package they came in.

      Reply

    • Hi there! The lab fee includes one hard-copy version of your report, yes. It is provided upon request, and you can make that request through our Client Support Center at 888-404-4363. You can also download and print the report from your secure online account, if you prefer.

      Reply

  40. I’ve sent in my samples, but i think my husband may have forgotten to sign his envelope, what will happen if that’s the case?

    Reply

    • Hi, Tiffany. If a consent signature is missing, you’ll get an email from us letting you know we need missing information. Testing is suspended temporarily until we have the info on file, so it may take longer than two business days to get your results back. Of course, you’re welcome to call us at any time if you have questions or concerns: 888-404-4363.

      Reply

  41. How can you tell if a mother has not sent in her dna acting as the father in order to falsify a positive test. In other words…how do you know if the “fathers” dna is actually that of a male and not the mothers?

    Reply

    • Hi, Dana. We check the sex chromosome with every profile we do, so we know if it’s a male’s sample or a female’s sample.

      Reply

  42. Hi , A simple question to you guys. How many swabs on each cheek, for each swab is sufficient to get enough cells? Thank you. I heard it is supposed to be done 350 times overall. Please correct me.

    Reply

    • Hi, Beverly. Per the kit instructions, each participant should collect three separate samples using three separate swabs. Each swab should be vigorously rubbed on the inside of the cheeks and gums for 30 seconds apiece. Hope this helps!

      Reply

    • Hi, Barb. No, we do not have it online. The order form asks for full contact info, names of participants, and payment information. The sample envelopes ask for name, DOB, phone#, race description, and there’s a spot for a consent signature. Does this help?

      Reply

    • Hi, Lucy! The $89 lab fee includes testing for the mother also, although her participation is optional. In some rare circumstances, her DNA may be needed to confirm results and the lab will ask for it. Bottom line: Although testing Mom is included in the price, you don’t have to send in her DNA.

      Reply

    • Hi, Ashley! What is your relationship to the child? I’m guessing you are with the alleged father? If the child is a minor, and the alleged father does not have legal authority to act on the child’s behalf, then signed consent from the authorized parent (in this case, the mother) is required, yes. Hope this helps! If you have other questions or need clarification, you’re always welcome to call us directly at 888-404-4363.

      Reply

      • Yes I’m with the (father) and the mother does not want to do DNA thats why I was asking my husband really wants to know

        Reply

        • Is he on the birth certificate? If so, he can sign consent. If not, you have to have her permission. We always recommend that everyone be upfront and honest, though. Does your husband have a legitimate reason to believe the child may be his, even if he’s not on the birth certificate? If the mother’s child isn’t willing to test, your husband may be able to compel her to test through the court system.

          Reply

  46. If the father lives in NY but the mother and child live in Pennsylvanian do you still have to have a third party to do the collection and mail it in. If so, is there an additional fee if you use a collection site?

    Reply

    • Hi, Yaris. What matters is where the DNA is collected and not where it’s mailed from. So if the possible father collects in NY, you’ll all need your sample-collection and mailing to be witnessed. There is an additional $40 per participant fee for the collection service. We make it as easy as possible by setting up the collection appointments for you. Just give us a call at 888-404-4363.

      Reply

    • Hi, Rachel. The testing procedure itself is always the same for all relationship testing, but the analysis required to produce results is considerably more if the possible fathers do not participate. From what you wrote, I can’t tell if you want to test the child with siblings of the alleged fathers’ or with the child’s possible half-siblings, but the lab fee for this type of testing starts at $399. The child’s mother would also need to participate. Hope this helps!

      Reply

  48. How do I make a complaint ? I’ve been trying since yesterday . I was under the assumption that I would get an email stating that the samples were received in the lab . I never got an email . I just happened to call , and they said they have the samples . I need the email sent to me so I can set up the online account . How do I go about getting an email sent to me ?

    Reply

    • Hi, Shay. I’m sorry you didn’t receive an email notification. If you included your email address on the paperwork, it should have been sent. My guess is that the notification went to your spam folder. Our customer service line is 888-404-4363.

      Reply

  50. I sent my swabs in recieved an email said they had been recieved and would be ready by Tuesday at 6 pm. Well it’s now Wednesday and still no email confirmation.

    Reply

    • Hi, Kaye. Most likely more testing was required on your samples, which delayed the process by a day. You’ll receive another email notification when your results are ready.

      Reply

  51. Hello I mail my DNA test off at the post office on Saturday I haven’t receive a email yet when will I get a email

    Reply

    • Hi, Kia. If you used the postage-paid envelope included in the kit, it can take 7-14 business days for the post office to deliver your samples to us. Once those samples arrive, an alert will be sent to the email address associated with the case.

      Reply

  52. If The father has already been tested on another child do u keep the results? So then I could just send in the DNA on the second child

    Reply

    • Hi, Marie. It depends on how long ago you tested the first child. If it’s been over six months, we’d want new samples. Please contact us about it at 800-344-9583.

      Reply

  53. what if i didnt get the cheek cells and i just swab it from the tongue , for both father and child but the results came back 0%

    Reply

    • Hi, Shayla. DNA is he same, whether it’s from the cheek or tongue. The question is, was enough DNA collected on the swab in order to test properly? Since you were issued results, the answer is yes! The results would still be 0% whether the DNA came from the cheek or tongue.

      Reply

  54. I have been to several stores to purchase the test and they all had expired dates on the boxes. I finally ordered one online and it too came with an expired date. Are the dates printed on the boxes expiration dates? If not, what are the dates?

    Reply

    • Hi, DeAngela. Those dates are not expiration dates; they’re the dates on which that particular kit was created. Materials in these kits are not anything that would expire. Hope this helps!

      Reply

  55. The alleged father sent the test off without my consent. He does not have custody of my child nor is he on the birth certificate. The results were 99.93% 1 out of 1385. Does this mean he signed for me illegally? Also couldn’t he have sent off any father and sons DNA? The man is obsessed with me so I just wonder sometimes if he would do that just to stay in my life.

    Reply

    • Hi, Jane. Seeing as it was a home paternity test, the results are not court-admissible. Yes, he should have obtained your permission first, regardless of whether or not the test was a legal one or not. And you’re right…there’s no guarantee whose DNA he sent in. It could have been his and your son’s or it could have been DNA from other father/son duo. When it’s an at-home test, the lab can only provide an answer of whether or not the samples submitted show a biological relationship between the parties tested. The lab cannot verify the names of the people to whom the DNA actually belongs. That’s why we don’t put names on results reports for at-home tests.

      Reply

    • Hi, Dedra. The price in the store is just for the paternity kit itself. Then there is an additional lab fee as indicated on the box, yes.

      Reply

  57. For a baby do I leave the phone number and email address fields on the form blank or do I enter my details? I am the mother.

    Reply

    • You want to put your contact information (or the info for the person paying for the test) on the sample envelopes.

      Reply

  58. My daughters father is denying her now because of your test I think they tampered with it because they refused to swab him in front of me and my baby’s swabs were leaking through the envelope can this cause inaccurate results?

    Reply

    • Hi, EKB. I’m not sure who “they” is that you refer to. Do you mean his family? Or do you mean an approved DNA collector who was witnessing his DNA collection? This makes a difference in my reply. Please clarify, OK? Thanks!

      Reply

        • Since it was an at-home test, Identigene has no way of verifying whose samples we were testing. It may or may not have been your baby’s. That’s why we can’t release information to anyone whose name is not on the test. If you are seeking child support or custody, these results couldn’t be used in court anyway, so it doesn’t matter legally. If you intend to go to court, they will order another paternity test and you can be sure there wouldn’t be any chance of tampering.

          Reply

  59. Hi. I did a DNA test and the results were supposed to be ready today by 6. I have not received an email saying they are ready. I have checked spam and trash. Nothing. Please advise me on what to do.

    Reply

    • Hi, Shannon. The initial email you were given was an ETA only. It may be that additional testing was required in order to confirm results or they may be an issue with your samples. Please give us a direct call at 800-344-9583.

      Reply

    • Hi, Peyton. You can. However, keep in mind that the lab fee listed on the kit is to test one child + one possible father. So if you test two children, you need to pay double the lab fee and clearly mark that you are testing two children on the paperwork you submit. If you have questions, feel free to call us at 800-344-9583.

      Reply

      • So would I just swab the father and the two kids and not the mother? Also can I test my two kids with their aunt (father’s sister)

        Reply

        • Hi, Amanda. You can use the kit to test one possible father and two kids, but you would need to pay an additional lab fee. So if the lab fee is $119 for testing one child + one man, the lab fee would be $238 to test two children with one man. If you want to test your children with their aunt instead, you would need to submit your DNA too. If that’s the case, please call us directly at 800-681-7162 to set up the test.

          Reply

  61. Hi i purchased a test months ago i swabbed my daughter and myself but not the alleged father at the time. The swabs have been sealed and bern kept in a dry place can the swabs that’s been untouched be used or would i have to purchase another test?

    Reply

  62. Do you have to pay the lab fee upfront or is there a payment plan you can do for people not financially stable but still want to take a dna test?

    Reply

  63. When sending in the samples I noticed the postage envelope was wet from the samples leaking through their envelope will that effect results

    Reply

    • Hi, Jae. If sample are contaminated in any way, we suspend testing and ask for new samples, so your results wouldn’t be affected, no.

      Reply

  67. good morning i have a question i noticed if its a new York resident this kit will not work
    why is that ?? what if the father doing the test lives in new Jersey and the child lives in new york would we be able to take the swab test or not

    Reply

    • Hi, Elizabeth. You can still do a test…it just has to be a legal one. The New York State Department of Health requires that all DNA tests be legal, witnessed tests, and they first require approval by a doctor or lawyer. There’s nothing we can do about this…it’s a New York State mandate. If the test is purchased in a store in New Jersey, mailed from New Jersey, and the address of the alleged father is New Jersey, then there’s no problem.

      Reply

  68. I mailed off the dna swabs Saturday and still haven’t received anything in my email about the results or if they have arrived at the lab.

    Reply

  69. Hi I placed the swabs back in the plastic they came in after swabbing & mailed them off will it be defective now?

    Reply

    • Hi, CuriousOne. The reason why we have you put them directly in the paper envelope rather than back in the plastic packaging is to help prevent the development of mold. Hopefully your swabs are OK. If they’re not, then the lab will not test and you’ll be asked to send in new samples.

      Reply

  70. After i do the cheek test on the father, how many days do i have to send in the result to the lab? Does i have to send them in right away or can i take my time and send them in later whenever i want to

    Reply

    • Hi, Roman. When you pay online, your card is charged even though your samples have not yet arrived at the lab. Please allow 10 business days for samples to reach our lab. If you have any further questions, you’re welcome to call us at 800-344-9583.

      Reply

      • I didn’t pay online, I’ve filled out paper order form including credit card information and sent it with swabs

        Reply

          • I was trying to call a few times but could not reach representative. I was held on the line about 15 min each time listen to the menu

          • We’ve had an unusually high volume of calls the last week or so. I’m sorry for the wait, and thanks for your patience.

          • If your results are ready, Roman, you’ll be able to log in to your account using the email and password you chose when setting up your test.

          • Hi there!
            Thank you for your response here. But I’m still waiting for test results.
            Sent my samples more than one month ago and still didn’t get the results. I’ve tried to reach customer support but nobody answered my calls (waiting on a line 20-30 min every time) and my emails. What should I do next?

          • Hi, Roman. I’m looking into your case to see what’s happening. We’ll be in touch!

  72. I purchased a DNA test kit from CVS 2 weeks ago and noticed the expiration date on the box says August 2017. The box has never been opened, will this have any effect on the results? Or should I just purchase a new one?

    Reply

    • Hi, Justina. It’s actually not an expiration date. It’s the date the kit was created! These materials don’t expire, so you’re good to go. :-)

      Reply

  74. Hey, i want to get my two kids tested from the same guy. Do i need to buy two seperate pack or can i only use one?

    Reply

    • Hi, Violeta. You need one kit, but you’ll need to pay two separate lab fees. When sending in paperwork and payment, be sure to add a note about the two separate tests. And, of course, there aren’t enough swabs for you to also include your DNA, but in most cases that’s OK.

      Reply

    • Hi, Destiny. If there’s enough DNA on the swabs to complete testing, then the lab won’t request additional samples. Also, unless you kept your swabs in a hot car over the last month, the DNA is probably still just fine.

      Reply

  77. Hello. I was wondering how much the lab fee is because I see different amounts printed on the same Dna kits? Like $89, $119, and $129. And it’s to test one father and one child

    Reply

    • Hi, Erika. The price has varied over the years, and we honor all of them. Some stores sell through kits faster than others.

      Reply

  78. My son completed the test and the results revealed that he is not the father. The baby’s mother still insists that he is. I witnessed the swabbing of both the child and my son and I sent the envelopes overnight and paid extra for 1day processing. Is there any chance the test results are wrong? I need to be sure.

    Reply

    • Hi! Since you witnessed the swabbing and mailing, you can be sure that the samples sent were indeed for your son and the child, and you can absolutely trust the test results. No worries!

      Reply

  79. I am a father interested in checking to see if my son’s DNA matches mine. My biggest issue with this process is discretion. If I elect to use this service, I only want information to be sent to me via email. I don’t want anything sent to my house, for obvious reasons. Can I be assured that no mailings would be sent directly to my home at any time?

    Reply

    • Hi, Doug. We don’t ever send anything via snail mail, unless requested to do so. I suggest you purchase your kit from the store instead of online, and this way the kit won’t be delivered to your house either. You can find the kit at Walmart, Walgreens, Rite Aid, CVS, and other retailers too.

      Reply

  80. I see the cost and ability to do a father and 1 child, what about a father and 2 children? My son has twins and I need to know what it costs to send in his information and the twins. Thank you

    Reply

    • Hi, Gloria. Your son would just need to pay two lab fees if the twins are confirmed fraternal. If the twins are confirmed identical, then only one needs to be tested. It’s easiest if he calls us directly to set up the test, since it involves more than one child: 800-681-7162.

      Reply

    • Hi, Alma. If you used the postage-paid envelope included in the kit, it can take 10 business days (not including weekends) for USPS to deliver the envelope to us. Once it arrives, results are ready in 2 business days.

      Reply

  83. How long does it take to know results? I sent in the package march 2, 2019 and i still haven’t heard anything.

    Reply

    • Hi, Fernando. It can take 10 business days for your sample envelope to reach our lab (not including weekends). Since you sent it on March 2, USPS should deliver by March 15.

      Reply

  84. My sample envelopes state that if i paid online a case number is required. Failure to incude this number may delay results. I paid online and was not given a case number. Do i need it? How do i get it?

    Reply

    • Hi, Gregory. Thanks for testing with us. After you paid online, an email was sent to you with your case number and pin. Since you have a gmail address, please check your Promotions or spam folders. If you still don’t see the email, please let me know here.

      Reply

  85. I’m interested in doing a sibling test. Trying to figure out how much it would cost and if we can be tested in different states.

    Reply

    • Hi, Tiana. Sib tests cost anywhere from $300-500, depending on various factors. You’re welcome to call our parent company, DDC, and our experts will be happy to answer your questions and assist: 800-681-7162 (M-F, 8:30 am to 5:30 pm Eastern).

      Reply

    • Hi, Amber. The purpose of a cheek swab is what you states: to collect cheek cells. The collection of saliva on the swab should be incidental only (in other words, don’t spit on the swab)! If the swab is contaminated with too much saliva and not enough cheek cells, the lab suspends testing without issuing results and requests new samples. So the answer is no, it can’t cause a 0%.

      Reply

    • Hi, Rex. That’s an additional $100. There are strict guidelines that must be followed:

      IMPORTANT: When choosing Same-Day results, all samples must be received before 8:30 AM Eastern Time to ensure testing can be completed the same day samples are received. We strongly recommend that you use a courier service for sample delivery (like FedEx or UPS) instead of the postage-paid envelope included in the kit, and please make sure your courier can guarantee delivery by 8:30 AM Eastern Time.
      ONE MORE STEP:To visually notify our team that you have ordered same-day results, write PR in large letters on the outside of the envelope prior to mailing and circle the letters.

      Reply

  88. i Know my son is mine but question my daughter. How do I know my daughters cheek was swabbed and not my sons? What information is sent in with test? Is there paperwork providing names and gender for accurate test results? If paperwork says female but a male was tested will the test come back invalid?

    Reply

    • Hi, Austin. If the test is supposed to be for a female, but a male’s sample is submitted, then the lab immediately suspends testing, contacts the customer, and requests a new sample. Each participant’s gender is listed on the report.

      Reply

    • Hi, Antonio. That residue cannot change DNA…it can only possibly affect the quality of the sample, making it impossible to extract the DNA from the swabs. If you are issued results, then it wasn’t a problem. If new swabs are needed, the swab will suspend testing without issuing results and request new samples.

      Reply
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