MyHeritage is Adding Free DNA Matching

We have some good news for the genealogy community.

We are constantly developing new ways to advance genealogy through the latest technological innovations. One of the most exciting frontiers in family history research is DNA and today’s announcement reflects a major step by MyHeritage in this important area.

DNA and traditional genealogy methods, such as family trees and historical records, go hand in hand. DNA can sometimes help where traditional research encounters a dead end, while traditional genealogy is often required to pinpoint an exact relationship path discovered by DNA.

While we have been offering DNA test kits for a few years — through partnerships — and will continue to do so, we are now developing a new DNA Matching service. This service will enable people who have already tested their DNA through DNA testing services (such as 23andMe, Family Tree DNA, and AncestryDNA) to enjoy MyHeritage’s exceptional matching capabilities for their family history research, and get more value from the DNA test they already took. We invite such users to export their raw DNA data from the service they tested on (which is straightforward) and import this data to MyHeritage now, so that when our DNA Matching service is released soon, they will receive matches immediately, and at no cost. Later on, DNA Matching may become a premium feature, but it will remain free for users who upload their DNA data now.

If you have already had your DNA tested, you can import your raw DNA data to MyHeritage by visiting the new DNA tab on family tree profiles. Access the DNA tab for yourself by clicking on your name in the top-right corner of your family site, and go to your profile.

You can access the DNA tab not only for yourself, but also for your relatives, from the left panel on the family tree as shown below. Clicking the link takes you to the DNA tab on the profile page, where the DNA data can be uploaded.

In the DNA tab, follow the instructions to download the data from any of the providers listed; check the boxes to accept the terms and conditions, and then click “Upload DNA data file(s)”.

Your DNA data will be kept private and secure on MyHeritage.

Our service will then match you to other people who share DNA with you: your relatives through a common ancestor. You will be able to review your matches’ family trees (excluding living people), and filter your matches by common surnames or geographies to focus on more relevant matches. This new technology will also enable you to prove and disprove other types of matches (such as Smart Matches™ and Record Matches) and connect with new relatives in order to collaborate. You’ll benefit from our vast international user base of 82 million registered users, plus the 10 million additional registered users on Geni.com, and get matches you would not receive otherwise.

Below are answers to some key questions on this announcement.

Why should I upload my raw DNA data to MyHeritage?

Uploading your data will allow you to get additional matches to many other MyHeritage users who have tested their DNA. You’ll have nothing to lose because it’s free and will remain free for those who upload their DNA data right now.

Can I delete my DNA data from MyHeritage?

Yes. You can delete DNA data that you’ve uploaded to MyHeritage at any time.

Can I upload the DNA data of someone else?

You can also upload the DNA data of as many close relatives of yours as you like, from as many DNA test kits as you like, provided that you obtain their consent. To do so, visit the profile of a relative of yours in the family tree and click the DNA tab (provided that you are the site manager).

I have uploaded my raw DNA data, but I don’t see any matches.

This is because we are in the final stages of creating the reports. We will notify you when matching is ready, very soon.

Who has access to the DNA data?

Only you do. Nobody else can see it, and nobody can even know that it was uploaded. Only the uploader can see the data, and you can delete it at any time. Users who are matched with your DNA will not have access to your DNA or your email address, but will be able to get in touch with you via MyHeritage.

Will MyHeritage provide other types of DNA reports?

Yes, in the future we plan to offer ethnic/geographic origin reports. They will also be free for users who upload their DNA data now.

How do I import my DNA data into MyHeritage?

To upload your raw DNA data, simply log on to MyHeritage, then click on your name in the upper right side, and select “My profile”. Then click on the DNA tab in your profile, where you will see clear instructions. If you need a hand, our friendly Support team is standing by to help you by phone or by email.

What if I have not had my DNA tested yet?

Free DNA Matching is being added for people who have already had their DNA tested by a DNA testing service. If you have not had your DNA tested yet, you are welcome to view our recommended DNA tests, provided by our trusted partners, and make a selection appropriate for your research goals. Please note that the DNA tests are not free. Once your DNA results arrive you’ll be able to upload them to MyHeritage.

The powerful matching technologies we have developed are considered by many to be the best in the genealogy industry. We are very happy to be adding DNA Matching to our line-up, and we hope it will provide a breakthrough in your family history journey.

Enjoy!