Advances in DNA technology have made home DNA testing much more accessible to people but understanding what affects the cost of DNA test will help you better understand what exactly you are paying for. The most popular test by far is the DNA paternity test, however, there are many other tests available, at various costs, depending on a number of factors.
DNA Tests – Cheaper and Simpler
DNA testing is now recognized as the most reliable way to confirm biological relationships. Various types of DNA tests exist and these will normally incur different prices and costs, depending on various factors including the type of test required, the number of persons involved, and the timeframes for issuing results.
Thanks to worldwide use of the internet it has never been easier, or cheaper, to order a home DNA test. One simply selects a properly accredited DNA testing company, orders a testing kit online and waits for it to be sent to your home. A DNA sample can be collected in the comfort of your own home and posted back to the laboratory in the same day, with one then waiting for the results to be sent to you. Depending on the test, your kit will vary as different test might need different samples. A gender prediction test will require a sample of maternal urine whilst a prenatal paternity test that is non invasive will require a sample of maternal blood. Which ever test required, the kit, postage, instructions, sample containers and so forth will all be part of your kit and taking samples for any DNA test is really akin to the expression "a walk through the park". It’s as simple as that. There are several factors that will affect the cost of a test as examined below.
What Affects the Cost of a DNA Test?
* There are many factors that will affect the price of a DNA test; the number of people being tested is a major factor. A paternity test will increase in price depending on the number of persons being tested. Tests with other relatives, for example a sibling or grandparent test will increase in cost if one adds a parent into the comparison.
* The type of test you select will also affect the price. Normally tests like relationship testing or Forensic testing, that require more in depth analysis, will be priced higher than a standard paternity test.
* If time is a factor, then many DNA companies will offer an express service at an additional charge. This can mean receiving your results up to 5 days sooner than with a standard test.
* Another factor that would affect the cost of a DNA test is whether you require an “at home test” (aka “peace of mind test”) or a legal test. The standard at home test will require less paperwork and administration and hence is normally a cheaper option. However, the results cannot be used in a court of law and are purely to satisfy a need to know.
Most DNA testing companies will offer a range of legal tests, for example the Legal Paternity Test that is court admissible. These are often needed when a parent is contesting financial payments for a child, or in cases where custody is being argued. Another legal test offered is an Immigration Test. Many governments have now endorsed the use of DNA tests as proof of biological relationships for citizenship and visa applications. These legal tests will cost more than a standard home test, due to the added complexity of managing them, and involve medical or government professionals.
* Non-Standard Samples (aka Forensic DNA Testing) are another major factor in determining the price of your DNA test. In some cases it is not possible to submit an oral swab sample from a person. Instead, items such as a used tissue or chewing gum may be sent to a laboratory for analysis. These are known as non-standard samples and involve a more complicated DNA extraction process. Depending on what sample is submitted will affect the cost of the test, and the percentage of probability that a lab can extract DNA from it.
Selecting A DNA Company – Not Just an Issue of Cost
An important factor to consider when weighing up the cost of a DNA test is the type of company and laboratory you use. DNA and forensic testing is not something to be taken lightly and hunting for bargains will not necessarily produce the best results.
Accreditation is an important aspect of selecting a DNA testing company. Throughout the world, laboratory accreditation is a process used to determine technical competence. A specialist technical team will assess certain factors, which they feel are relevant to a laboratory’s ability to produce accurate and reliable data. Be sure to research a website properly first, to ensure that the company you select is making use of an accredited laboratory.
About easyDNA
At easyDNA we offer a full range of services and tests, at highly competitive prices, from a fully accredited laboratory. For information on the cost of a DNA Test see our price list.
