I just sent off a sample. FTDNA is the company. can't wait for the results. what do I do next?

Question

How do I integrate my DNA into my records?

 

Thanks

Answer 1

You wait until they send an email saying it is done.  It can take 4 to 6 weeks in my experience although I have seen it go as quickly as 2 weeks after they receive it.   I tracked the package to see when it was delivered because I had one kit (I gave kits to all of my children their spouses and my husband ) that got stuck for 2 weeks in the Houston Hub.  My one son and daughterinlaw sent theirs at the same time and he had his results weeks before she did because hers got stuck at the mail hub.  

One thing you can do is start reading the tutorials / info on how to read the results.   I had that done before I got my results and it really did help me understand what I was looking at.   

Another is to get your tree or at least your direct ancestors loaded into their gedcom tree tool.  That helps others looking at a match to see how they may fit with you and your lines.   Also by putting in surnames.  

After you get the results if you gave permission for matches you will start looking through those.  I sorted by relationship looking for the closest ones I could find first.  You can send emails to those matches.  

I had my DNA tested by them and once it is in look for the link to be able to download the data so you can upload into things like gedmatch.com

By the way,  I am 25% on paper Scottish and by DNA 45% British Isles.. perhaps we will find that we match!

Comments

I sent my sample in early January.  In late January, when I logged in on their site, it showed that my kit was received and results would be available between Feb 27 and Mar 13.  Yesterday, when I was hoping to find results, it was "updated" and now results are expected between Mar 13 and Mar 27.

The original completion date range was in a 6-8 week window and now I'm in an 8-10 week window.  To rub salt in the wound, they just sent me an email today wanting me to pay them $19 to upgrade to what they call a "full featured account".  I am starting to think that I made the wrong choice about where to be tested.

Answer 2

Congrats on taking the plunge Michael. FTDNA is a fine company. Which DNA test did you take with them? If it's the YDNA test there are an active group of Stewart participants. Good luck with your results.