What Happens to Your DNA Data on Ancestry Sites?

Does a DNA testing company automatically delete data after someone dies?

Generally, no - most services don’t automatically detect or act on a customer’s death, so the account and associated genetic data typically remain in the company’s system exactly as they were, governed by that company’s own privacy policy and terms of service, until someone actively takes action.

Can family members access a deceased relative’s account?

Not automatically in most cases - these services generally treat the account as belonging specifically to the tested individual, and family members typically need to go through a specific request process, which usually requires proof of death and, often, legal authority such as executor status, to gain any access or make changes.

What can a family actually request from these companies?

This varies by company, but commonly includes requesting account closure, deletion of genetic data, or in some cases, continued access to genealogical matches and family tree information the deceased person had built - each company has its own specific process and requirements for these requests.

Is genetic data treated differently from other account information?

Often, yes - raw genetic data is generally considered particularly sensitive, and companies frequently have distinct, more restrictive policies specifically for deleting or transferring DNA data compared to general account information like a family tree or messages.

Does this data have value to family members that’s worth preserving?

Potentially, yes - genealogical connections, DNA matches with distant relatives, and family tree research a person built over time can be genuinely meaningful to preserve, which is part of why some families specifically request continued access rather than deletion, if the deceased person would have wanted that information kept available.

Should someone document their wishes about this in advance?

Yes - if you have a strong preference either way (wanting your data deleted, or wanting family to have continued access to your genealogical research), documenting this specifically, along with your account login information or at least which service you used, spares your family from having to guess or navigate an unfamiliar company’s policies without any guidance.

Is this similar to other digital account situations after a death?

Yes, broadly - this fits the same general pattern as many other digital accounts, where family access isn’t automatic and company-specific policies determine what’s actually possible. See our guide on digital accounts after a death for the wider pattern this fits into, and digital legacy planning for how to prepare for this across all your accounts in advance.

Could this genetic data ever be relevant for family health information?

Potentially, yes - genetic testing results can include health-related insights relevant to blood relatives, which is another reason some families specifically want continued access rather than deletion. This is worth discussing directly with family while it’s possible to express a preference.

Policies for DNA testing services vary by company and can change - contacting the specific service directly is the most reliable way to confirm what applies to a particular account.