How Accurate are Home Paternity Tests?

Are Home Paternity Tests Accurate?

One of the most commonly asked questions our clients have when considering a Home Paternity DNA Test is whether the results will be accurate.  This is something we deeply understand as the results can have life changing implications and far reaching consequences for them and their family. 

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Many over-the-counter DNA testing companies send their tests to unregulated labs or ship your DNA samples out of the U.S. for cheaper processing. Cheap testing most often means cheap testing methods and a loss of accuracy.

Don’t take a chance on what could be a life changing paternity test.

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How Accurate is a Validity Genetics Home Paternity Test?

We do not cut corners when it comes to accuracy.  All testing is performed with our nationally recognized, ISO certified, and AABB accredited laboratory partner. Assuring that your home paternity test results are as accurate as they can be. 

No corner cutting and no outside groups handling your test or personal data.

Are At-Home Paternity Tests as Accurate as Legal Paternity Tests?

In almost all cases, yes!  We handle all of our DNA tests, both Home and Legal, in the same accredited laboratory using the exact same processes, equipment, trained personnel, and safeguards.  While there is a difference in how a Home Paternity Test vs a Legal Paternity Test is collected and used, the accuracy of the results are done to the same high standards.

The largest problem concerning at-home DNA tests is not getting enough usable DNA to examine in our lab.  Making sure to follow all directions carefully and completely when collecting the samples is the best way to ensure accuracy for at-home paternity or relationship DNA testing.

To summarize:  Yes. Home paternity testing, when done correctly and all instructions are followed, is highly accurate.  Validity Genetics home DNA tests are done to the same standard as our legal DNA testing.  To further ensure the accuracy of your test and to protect your private data, all of our testing is done in America by our nationally recognized and accredited laboratory.

 For any additional questions contact us or send us an email Info@ValidityGenetics.com

Choosing Validity Genetics for Your DNA Testing.

There are many companies that offer DNA testing.  However trusting something as important as your DNA test with just any company, and not a nationally accredited, trusted, and licensed one, isn’t something you should do.  Luckily Validity Genetics is such a DNA testing company.  Let us show you why choosing us when you need paternity or DNA testing done is the right choice.

Our Expertise

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Validity Genetics is Your Paternity and DNA Information Expert

Our staff have been in the paternity and DNA testing industry for some time they are skilled and knowledgeable on how to help you when contacted for information (Contact us!). We are backed by a team of employees who have over one hundred years of combined laboratory experience and are certified through multiple national and international accreditation bodies as well as ISO trainings, so you can feel at ease when contacting or working with Validity Genetics. We have the experience to ensure that your test results are done correctly, accurately and on time. Consider us your DNA experts.

Quality of Equipment

The scientific instruments and equipment in our laboratory are state-of-the-art.  Our facility is fully licensed and accredited using all of the latest techniques resulting in an accurate streamlined and efficient testing process.  We are multi-faceted and can perform a multitude of differing types of tests to fit our client needs; from home and legal paternity testing to forensic DNA testing.

Customer service

One of the biggest goals we have is delivering quality customer service to you, our client. When you contact us, whether for prices and information or a follow up on your test, you can be sure to receive a high level of care and attention to detail that you deserve and should come to expect with something as personal as DNA testing. We will take the time to include a hand on personal touch with you so you can be comfortable knowing that we can provide everything you need.

Validity Genetics provides expert, accurate, safe, and trustworthy DNA and paternity testing. Contact Us to answer any questions you may have, send an email to Info@ValidityGenetics.com, or chat with a representative on our Facebook page to see what we can do for you today.

Visit ValidityGenetics.com for more DNA testing info and a more in depth breakdown on all the services we offer.

Collecting DNA With Your at Home DNA Kit

There are so many reasons to complete DNA testing. From paternity to infidelity, Validity Genetics has provided New Mexico and Texas residents, as well as people around the country, access to complete and accurate informational at-home DNA testing. Home DNA testing kits have never been more accessible than they are today.  But, we understand that it is normal to feel some hesitation towards participating in one.

Here’s a quick how to for successfully collecting a DNA sample:

1) What at home DNA testing vs. court admissible testing means

While at-home DNA tests are incredibly convenient, they do not work for court orders or for legal problems. If you require DNA testing of any kind for legal reasons, you will need to order and submit to court-admissible DNA testing which includes sample collection from an unbiased third party, such as from our main laboratory or a local clinic or testing center.

2) Purchase a DNA kit that is tailored to your specific needs

With so many types of DNA tests out there it is important that you are purchasing the correct one.  Some will will require samples from different individuals, so you should be certain these individuals will participate in the testing.  Other DNA tests, such as an Infidelity DNA test, will more than likely require a forensic DNA sample.  Be sure to find out what kinds of samples can be used and which ones to avoid (Click here for examples), as well how to collect them (Click here for more info). Do your research and speak to professionals to ensure the test you buy will provide the results you’re looking for by reaching out to us through our Contact page, sending an email to Info@VaildityGenetics.com, or chat with a representative on our Facebook page.

3) Gathering the correct samples

The included DNA collection instructions are precise, so ensure the samples you take can be utilized by checking the instructions. Most DNA tests require a simple cheek swab (buccal swab) or saliva sample. Hair, fingernail, or other samples may also be used depending on the test purchased (Click here for more info).

4) Be as clean and sterile as possible

When collecting samples it is important to stay clean and keep the sample as sterile as possible.  When possible wash your hands, wear sterile gloves, use sterile tools, and never place your sample on a contaminated surface when collecting. All of these variables can have an impact on the integrity of your sample and its results.

5) Follow the detailed instructions for a cheek (buccal) swab

Our DNA test kits will come with a complete set of instructions.  Be sure the individual being swabbed does not put anything in their mouth that isn’t water up to an hour before their test. Scrape the inside of their cheek with the provided cotton swab for 30-60 seconds. Once the collection is complete, do not to let the end of the swab touch any other surface before being stored in the dry clean container provided in your kit.

6) Follow the shipping instructions for your kit

Your testing facility will provide you with directions to accurately ship your kits back to their laboratories. Following their instructions will ensure your DNA test is received and processed as efficiently as possible.

It’s important to remember that DNA testing kits can vary from company to company and depend on what kind of DNA testing is being completed. Thoroughly read all instructions before getting started.

For more information about our Paternity, Family, and general DNA testing options visit our site at ValidityGenetics.com, email us at Info@ValidityGenetics.com or Contact Us today!

Validity Genetics - Updates and News

At Validity Genetics we like to keep our customers, and everyone in general, up to date on the latest DNA and paternity testing information.  We feel that an informed society helps everyone.  Providing the latest most up to date information about something that can be as confusing as DNA and Genetic testing helps you, our customers, and your families understand what is going on and what to expect when you participate in genetic or DNA testing. 

Here in our News section we will post news, updates and information on our laboratory, DNA, paternity testing, and general genetic testing info. We also update our Twitter and Facebook with all the latest DNA info and promotions.

Thank you for stopping by and feel free to contact us  or email us at Info@ValidityGenetics.com with any questions or topics we should discuss.

Paternity Testing - When the Father Isn't Available

There are many reasons for wishing or having to conduct a DNA paternity test and in many cases, the father might not be available to participate. At first it may seem impossible to do without their cooperation, but there are other ways to still receive conclusive DNA results about paternity.

Sibling DNA testing

A Sibling DNA Test can be used in place of a Paternity DNA Test to test two peoples relationship.

This DNA test compares the genetic material shared between a child and their possible biological sibling. The easiest way to describe the connection between siblings is the higher the percentage, the more likely they are related. We always recommend including a known parent in testing because, this helps to improve the accuracy of the test and to avoid an inconclusive result.

Grand-parentage DNA testing

This DNA searches for the likelihood of a genetic connection between a child and one or both possible grandparents. Because a father holds 50% of a child’s DNA, testing potential grandparents can prove to be effective.  When possible it is recommended to test both biological paternal grandparents (on the suspected fathers side), as well as the mother, to determine the most accurate likelihood possible.

Aunt and Uncle DNA testing

In cases where grandparents are also available to complete DNA testing, uncle or aunt DNA testing can prove useful. Because a child shares around half of their genes with their father, and the father shares around half with their full sibling, the child will share approximately half of their genes with an aunt or uncle.  We always recommend including a known parent in testing because, this helps to improve the accuracy of the test and to avoid an inconclusive result.

Luckily, with Validity Genetics, you will never be left with looming paternity questions. In as little as 2-3 business days, we can give you 99.9999% accurate tests results through our stringent, certified, and validated testing procedures. With more questions about our paternity testing or various DNA testing services Contact Us or email us at Info@ValidityGenetics.com

How to Prepare for DNA Testing

The DNA testing process

Getting a quality paternity or DNA test is an intricate process that requires plenty of precision and care. The process involves planning and effort, and you should always be aware of the steps you need to make the process more efficient; both before, during, and after the test itself. So, before you place your order for DNA testing, make sure you take care of the following items in order to get the best results from your DNA testing experience.

Deal with a Reputable DNA Company/Laboratory

Reputation is everything, and your DNA tests – and its subsequent results – may have a significant impact on the course of your family and future. Whether you need to find out the paternity of a child or prepare for the future of your family, it’s crucial that your DNA test gets done right the first time.

Any agency/laboratory worthy of your patronage has quality equipment, extensive experience in a variety of DNA tests, the proper certifications, and all other necessary items to provide you the accurate DNA testing results. The main thing to look for when dealing with a DNA testing company is to make sure they are backed up by an AABB certified laboratory. This ensures that their results will be trustworthy and of the highest caliber.

Our laboratory partner is A2LA, ILAC, AABB, ISO 07025, ISO 9001, and ACAP accredited and certified. Click for most information on AABB accreditation and the certifications a laboratory needs.

Most common types of DNA tests and cost

It’s crucial that you understand the costs involved in having a Paternity or Relationship DNA test done in addition to any further follow-up work that your situation may require. In the DNA testing world there are two main types of testing, Informational and Legal testing. These are very different from each other in terms of price, how the samples are collected, and what they can be used for.

Home DNA Testing

Home or Informational DNA testing is the most common type of DNA test done, it is also the least expensive of the two versions of DNA tests. A home DNA test, as its name implies, is usually done in your own home. This type of DNA test cannot be used in court or for legal purposes.

When ordered the test kit will be sent to your address. It will contain everything one would need to collect DNA samples and return them safely to the laboratory. The test kit usually contains: two sterile buccal swabs per person, labeled envelopes for the swabs, a consent form to be filled out and signed, and a prepaid return envelope.

Legal DNA Testing

The second type of DNA test is the Legal or Court Admissible DNA test. This type of test is the more expensive of the two main kinds of DNA test. It is also the test that can be used in court and for legal purposes, such as adoption, wills and estates, birth certificates, or changes to child support.

When ordered the test kit cannot be sent to anyone participating in the test. The test should be sent to the person who will help collect the samples, verify identities, complete the paperwork, and mail the whole testing package back to the laboratory. At all times a legal test must follow the Chain of Custody in order to be considered court admissible.

Be aware that when doing a legal DNA test you may incur extra fees if the sample collection is done by a professional scheduled by the DNA company. Some companies include this in the cost, and will have higher costs associated with the test, and some do not factor collection fess in until a client requests professional collection.

What are the Costs of a DNA Test?

Cost is a major difference between Home and Legal DNA testing. Depending on the test a legal version can be a hundred dollars to almost twice the price of a home test.

For example a reputable DNA company like Validity Genetics lists their Home Paternity DNA Test for $149 and their Legal Paternity DNA Test for $299. And this is on the low side for a well known reputable DNA company backed up by a fully accredited and ISO certified laboratory.

After pricing your DNA test, you can make plans to budget enough money to spend on all of your bills, belongings, and more.  In special circumstances most companies can work with you to ease the cost of testing, or to break up the payments on more expensive testing.

It is highly suggested that if you do not need a DNA test for legal purposes, to only purchase a home DNA test.

IS a DNA test covered by Insurance?

Please note that relationship DNA testing and paternity testing is considered an elective and is not currently covered by most US insurance plans. 

Gather any necessary paperwork

Some DNA testing, like most things these days, requires paperwork! Some tests are in response to a court order (so be sure to get the correct DNA test), and others need visa-related papers from the US Government (such as United States Immigration). In addition all legal DNA tests will require some sort of official identification, such as a drivers license or government issued photo ID. Before you go to your appointment or fill out your consent forms, make sure that you have your pieces of identification, forms, and other relevant pieces you need to get the process started (Click Here to see more info on legal DNA testing).

Know Your Deadlines

Most DNA test results are quick with a two to three day results turnaround, while ones involving forensic or special samples may take a few more days to generate results. Even though a good DNA company will have rush services available, it is best if you don’t wait until the last minute! You may have to contend with tight time frames or rushed deadlines, which can make the process of waiting for results all the more nerve wracking and frustrating for you. Be sure to know the time it will take, factor this it into your schedule, and keep the timelines in mind while scheduling a DNA test.

DNA testing can at first seem daunting or downright scary, but if you take the time to prepare for it, it’s a very quick and simple thing.

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For more information about Paternity, Relationship, and general DNA testing questions Contact Us or email the team at Info@ValidityGenetics.com.

Non Invasive Prenatal Paternity Test

Coming early 2019

We understand the Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity (NIPP) Test is a highly sought after choice when dealing with the issue of Paternity Testing as soon as possible.

See our expanded Prenatal Paternity Testing Page. Here we have updates and announcements on our progress and links to additional information.

this testing option will be available February 2019.

In the meantime we are willing to offer information and answer questions on this DNA Paternity Testing option to help our customers in selecting a reputable laboratory and deciding on whether this is a viable option for you when seeking help on the issue of Paternity.

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Common questions about Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity Tests:

How much does this test cost? 

This is not a cheap test; it is one of the most expensive DNA tests on the market today.  You should expect to pay from $1600 to over $2000 for a fully accredited non-invasive prenatal paternity DNA test. Legal or court admissible versions will cost even more.

Is this a legal test?

This test can be offered as a legal paternity test. Having legal results in hand now will save you time in the future by not having to re-test.

Is this a walk in test? 

No.  Most laboratories need to schedule this in advance, preferably up to one week. This test requires a certified phlebotomist for blood collection and many DNA Laboratories do not have one on hand and will need to schedule them to do the collection.

Do you offer a re-test when the baby is born?

No. And any client should be wary of companies that do. If a company is offering a free post-birth test, this means they don’t stand behind the quality of their prenatal test.

Is there any danger to the fetus/baby? 

No.  This test is completely harmless to the mother and to the baby.  It tests for fetal DNA in the blood stream of the mother and not in the amniotic fluid as with more conventional prenatal Paternity Tests, such as CVS or Amniocentesis.

I have been pregnant before, will this affect the outcome?

No. A previous pregnancy will have no effect upon the outcome of a non-invasive prenatal paternity test. Once a pregnancy has run its course the fetal DNA is removed from the mothers blood by her own body.

Feel free to email us at Info@ValidityGenetics.com or Contact Us for more info!

Informational (Home) Vs. Legal DNA Testing

Legal DNA Tests

Legal, or Court Admissible DNA test results are required for clients who need to provide proof of family relationship for legal issues including: trusts and estate planning, child custody, child support, parental rights, paternity, etc.

Legal relationship testing requires that all tested parties have their DNA samples collected by an unrelated third party with no interest in the outcome of the testing. Collectors can be attorneys, pastors, coworkers, medical professionals, etc.

Legal tests also require a strict chain of custody that must be maintained throughout the sample collection and testing process.

Home (Informational) DNA Testing

Home tests, also known as private, peace of mind DNA tests, or informational, do not require an impartial unrelated sample collector or adherence to a strict chain of custody.

Sample collections for informational tests can be performed anywhere, home, work, or a doctors office.  A home or private test is right for you if your needs are only for personal knowledge, as they cannot be used in court.

It is important to note that while our informational tests are labeled as Home DNA tests our Legal DNA tests can be administered in the privacy and comfort of your choosing, as long as the chain of custody guidelines are strictly followed.

For additional questions contact us or email us at Info@ValidityGenetics.com

Gathering Special Samples

Special Samples

What is a forensic or Special Sample?

The most common way to collect DNA samples is from an oral buccal swab, but when a client must test an object other than the standard swabs (be it a shirt, bed sheet, cigarette, prophylactic, band aid, or something else with DNA attached to it), especially in the case of Infidelity testing, we recommend following this guide to gather your "special sample". 

To avoid contamination it is extremely important that all tested evidence is handled as little as possible from the start. Sterile gloves are recommended to prevent any contamination while gathering DNA samples.

HOW TO COLLECT SPECIAL SAMPLES:

To gather special samples, please follow these instructions:

Step 1: Please label envelope with the following details (use one small envelope per sample):

• Sample name or description

• Collection Date

• Approximate age of sample (date when it may have appeared or item last used)

Step 2: Prep the sample to be mailed:

• If this is a clothing sample or fabric stain (for example a bed sheet) we recommend you send the entire item to our lab. Please indicate where the stain to be tested is*

  • If you decide the item is too large to send through the mail, the stained area may be cut out and mailed instead. Please leave one to two inches of space around the potential DNA

• If this is a smaller item (toothbrush, hair follicles, condom, etc), make sure it dry (please allow to air dry. Do NOT use a hair dryer or any form of heating device to force it to dry) and can fit inside the labeled envelope

• Do NOT place anything in plastic bags

Step 3: Seal samples inside labeled envelope:

• Place the special samples into the envelope

• Seal the envelope with tape

Step 4: Place samples together in a larger envelope and mail to our Laboratory:

• Compile envelopes containing special samples, oral buccal swab samples, and the completed paperwork together into a larger mailing envelope

• Mail to our laboratory using a traceable courier service (USPS, FedEx, UPS, etc)

*clothing and fabric samples may be damaged or destroyed when tested

Additional info and ways to collect samples:

DNA, in a dry state, is very stable. Ultraviolet light, extreme temperature and moisture are the primary destructive agents of DNA molecules. There are a few basic rules that must be followed for the proper collection, packaging and storage of DNA evidence.

Wet Stains (Ex: blood, semen, saliva)

Biological evidence should always be allowed to air dry before being packaged in an envelope. Moisture allows bacterial growth to occur, rapidly destroying the material and greatly reducing the possibility of obtaining accurate DNA results. Blow dryers and other heating devices should not be used to force an item or stain to dry.

Pooled biological samples (Ex: blood, saliva, semen)

When dealing with blood, saliva or semen in a pooled or liquid state that may become contaminated or must be cleaned, swab the sample onto sterile cotton swabs (in a pinch Q-tips, with one end cut off, will work) and allow the swabs to air dry before packaging in a clean paper envelope.  Please try to have at lest two swabs per sample.

Dry Stains (Ex: blood, semen, saliva)

For best results and highest accuracy an article with stains should be submitted in its entirety. Each article should be separated from another.  We recommend large envelopes, clean paper bags, or clean plastic bags (only if the article is completely dry). If the article is too large to be mailed and the stained area cannot be cut out, please follow these steps to help with a proper collection.

• Place two or three drops of distilled water onto a sterile cotton swab (or a one sided Q-Tip)

• Rub the swab over the stained area. Try to transfer as much of the stain as possible onto the swab.

• Allow the swabs to air dry and package in clean paper envelopes.

Properly collecting, storing, and shipping DNA specimens for analysis helps to ensure accurate results. Most samples in a dry state will offer testable genetic evidence for decades.

For additional questions contact us or email us at Info@ValidityGenetics.com

New York and DNA testing

Collecting and mailing DNA tests in New York

New York is the only state in the United States that does not allow DNA testing by mail.  Collecting and mailing your own DNA sample in the state of New York is prohibited under New York State Public Health Law (Article 5, Title V, Section 574) and regulations (Part 58-1.10 (g) of 10NYCRR).  

Simply put, under the New York health regulations a person wanting to have DNA or genetic testing done in New York should:

• Obtain permission from a physician or lawyer for DNA testing

• Have the DNA sample collected by a physician under chain of custody

• Use a testing laboratory in the State of New York

• Ensure the laboratory doing the DNA test holds a New York State Department of Health certification

• Obtain permission to view their DNA results from a physician or lawyer

These extra hurdles are unique to New York residents in the United States.  Because of them we, and many other DNA testing companies, are dissuaded from offering our services to residents of New York State.

While we believe these regulations serve a purpose:

If a customer in New York does order a test kit from us we will send one to them under the implied understanding that the sample will not be collected in the state of New York (crossing into a neighboring state to swab the cheek) and will not be mailed from inside New York to our laboratory (again, in a neighboring state). 

As a general rule we do not, or in most cases cannot, determine from where a package is mailed.  Packages sent from New York to our laboratory run the risk of being discarded and destroyed, as to not run afoul of New York law.  Samples discarded in this manner may not be eligible for a refund.

For additional questions contact us or email us at Info@ValidityGenetics.com