FAQs
How to successfully complete a Home DNA Collection!
At Choice DNA, we understand that the process of collecting samples and getting results from the lab can seem complicated. We’re here to help! Below are answers to some of the most frequently-asked questions:
No. In most cases, anyone can have a DNA test performed. In New York, however, a prescription from a doctor is required.
You have three options for getting the sample taken: a local collector can come to you; you can go to a lab near your home; or a DNA kit can be mailed to you. This will contain special cheek swabs known as “buccal swabs.” You take the swab and rub it gently inside your cheek to collect the sample, just as you may have seen on television. Afterward, you’ll place the swab in a special envelope included in the kit, which also contains return packaging.
No. In fact, new noninvasive technology allows us to test a baby’s DNA even before he or she is born. We can also test newborns using umbilical cord blood. The preferred method of testing is from a cheek swab, and that can be done as soon as the baby is born. It’s quick and painless to the infant.
The shelf life is four years if you haven’t used it. But if you’ve taken a sample, it will be good for testing for up to three months.
We take confidentiality seriously. Results are released only to authorized recipients you designate, and packaging is discreet. Information is handled according to our privacy practices and service procedures.
If you have any questions for Choice DNA, we’re happy to provide answers. Read on to get more information from our list of FAQs.
Typical turnaround times vary by test type and begin once all required samples have been received by the laboratory. Estimated processing times may vary based on the test ordered, sample quality, and laboratory workflow. Please contact us for the most current turnaround estimate for your specific service.
Yes, we do. We offer a number of ways to relieve some of the burden of having to pay the full payment up front. 1. You can pay 50% of the cost upfront and then pay the remainder when you’d like to get your results. After your 50% deposit you can pay your balance in whatever increments you’d like. We’ll start testing right away, but the results can only be obtained when your balance has been paid in full. 2. You can use Sezzle which is a third party payment plan option that gives you the ability to make small payments over a 6 week time period. Click the Sezzle button at the bottom of the page for details. You’ll receive results as soon as we finish testing even though you’re still making payments. 3. This is an in house payment plan that allows you to make four total payments for prenatal noninvasive testing. Give us a call for details. For more information on payment plans, call our staff at (800) 219-4362.
Yes. We have an ever-growing DNA Network, so it will not be a problem to schedule a lab visit at a nearby collection facility, or have one of our collectors visit your home. Once both parties have been swabbed, we’ll start the testing process.
We perform a wide variety of tests, including those of a forensic nature. This is when someone sends us an object to get the DNA from it. These could include cigarette butts, hair, dried blood, dried urine, underwear stains, razor shavings, brushes, chewing gum, licked stamps and even wind instruments. Our state-of-the-art technology can glean results from all sorts of objects.
We also perform relationship tests to determine if, for example, two people are siblings or not. And for those who are concerned about possible infidelity, we can run a test to determine if the DNA sample came from just one person or more than one individual. Call us for more information on what we can provide.
If you have more questions for Choice DNA, please don’t hesitate to call our helpful staff! These FAQs will get you started, but we realize that every situation is different. Contact us today to get started!
Important Disclaimer: Facial comparison services analyze visible facial features in submitted photos for informational purposes only. They do not determine or confirm identity, paternity, ancestry, ethnicity, blood type, medical status, or any biological relationship. Laboratory DNA testing is the appropriate method when scientific or legal confirmation is needed.
Facial comparison is a photo-based review process that analyzes visible facial features and structural similarities between two submitted images. It is designed for informational and personal-knowledge purposes only and is not a substitute for laboratory DNA testing.
Yes. It’s preferred that each person’s picture be separate so that we’ll know which person is who, however our system can split a photo if both parties are in the same photo.
You will receive an email with your PDF results attached. You’ll be able to view and print your results from your email.
No, Facial comparison results are not court-admissible and should not be used as legal proof of identity or biological relationship. Court-admissible relationship testing generally requires accredited laboratory DNA testing with documented chain-of-custody procedures.
Facial comparison results are informational only and are based on visible features in the submitted photos. Results may vary depending on image quality, angle, lighting, age, facial expression, and other factors. Facial comparison does not confirm identity, paternity, ancestry, or any biological relationship. If scientific or legal confirmation is needed, laboratory DNA testing should be used.
Typically, no. You’d want to look at our coupon page or call 800-219-4362 to schedule an office visit and inquire about any current discount offers.
Our reports summarize visible similarities and differences observed in the submitted photos using image-analysis methods and review procedures. Any score, range, or comparison summary is intended only as an informational indicator and should not be interpreted as proof of identity or biological relationship.
Reports are typically delivered within the estimated turnaround window shown at checkout or at the time of submission. Processing times may vary depending on submission time, photo quality, questionnaire completeness, and order volume.
Yes. Please answer as many questions as you can. Missing information may limit the usefulness of the report, but you may still submit your request if some details are unknown.
Photos are required in order to complete a facial comparison report. The questionnaire alone is not enough to generate a full report.