The diagram below shows steps for a typical project from research question to conclusion. How I work changes from project to project based on what evidence is gathered. Some phases are employed multiple times!
Click image to enlarge or click here to view the PDF: How I Work
Frequently Asked Questions
Document Research
$35/hour
DNA Analysis and/or Research
$45/hour
Retainer Fee
$150 (one-time and non-refundable)
The First Step
The first step is to book your free 30-minute call with me for a free consultation. Click here to book your call.
DNA Testing
Ninety percent of the time I recommend AncestryDNA which currently has the largest database and panels to compare results.
Uploading to Other Genealogy DNA Sites
I recommend uploading your raw DNA data to FTDNA and GEDmatch which can be helpful to review chromosome matches and biological relatives who tested with other companies.
Part of my services include uploading your raw DNA results to FTDNA and GedMatch (or removing them).
Retainer Fee
The initial Retainer Fee is paid before work on the project begins. An invoice is sent with the Letter of Agreement.
At the End of Your Project
Pay in full when the project is complete. Once the full payment is posted, I release the report to you. This option is best if you have a single project that is not long-term.
Alternative: By Installment
Payment is divided into a number of installments, due monthly over a set amount of time. I release the report to you once the balance is paid in full. This option is best if you have multiple layers in a project that goes beyond the original scope and budget.
*The retainer fee will be collected before I begin your project and cannot be deducted from the total project invoice as it covers miscellaneous costs from doing research.
I use Honeybook to send invoices.
Online payment options include bank transfer, AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, VISA, and Apple Pay. If paying by check, delays for posting are normal up to 3-5 business days. Reports are released after payment is posted.