Question 1

Can I upload 23andMe or AncestryDNA raw data?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Download your raw data file from your 23andMe or AncestryDNA account, unzip it if it arrives as a .zip, and upload the .txt file at mygenestory.com/upload. We also accept raw data from MyHeritage, FamilyTreeDNA, and LivingDNA. Your file stays yours, and we don't sell genetic data. Step-by-step guides: How to Download and Upload 23andMe Raw Data (/blog/upload-23andme-raw-data) and How to Upload AncestryDNA Raw Data (/blog/upload-ancestrydna-raw-data).

Question 2

Which file formats do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept raw data text files from the major consumer DNA services: 23andMe (.txt), AncestryDNA (.txt), MyHeritage (.csv), FamilyTreeDNA (.csv), and LivingDNA (.txt). Tab-separated .tsv files also work. Files can be up to 50 MB. If your download arrives zipped, unzip it first and upload the file inside. If you tested somewhere else and your file lists rsIDs (lines starting with "rs" followed by numbers), email ask@mygenestory.com and we'll tell you whether it can be read.

Question 3

Where do I find my raw data file?

Accepted Answer

Sign in to the DNA service you tested with and look in account or DNA settings for an option such as "Download raw data" or "Download DNA data." Most services email you a download link once the file is ready. Save the file to your computer, unzip it if needed, then upload it at mygenestory.com/upload. Timing is set by your provider, not us. AncestryDNA says its email can take up to 24 hours; 23andMe says a request usually takes about a week and can take up to 30 days. Menu names change from time to time, so check your provider's help center if a button has moved.

Question 4

What happens after I upload?

Accepted Answer

Your browser checks the file format first, so obvious mix-ups are caught before anything is sent. Then we confirm your upload and show you a receipt number. In this early version, your file stays on your device. Leave your email on the upload page and we'll let you know when stories open. You can browse optional trait reports at any time. Keep your receipt number in case you need to contact us about a specific upload.

Question 5

Do you sell my genetic data?

Accepted Answer

No. We don't sell your genetic data. You decide which file to upload and when. In this early version, your file stays on your device after you confirm your upload. Our privacy policy at mygenestory.com/privacy explains what we collect and how we use it.

Your DNA told you half the story.

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