FAQ
You Asked, We Answered
While working with clients, we’re constantly learning about their needs and managing inquiries that arise. As a result, we’ve included a list of frequently asked questions along with answers in order to provide additional support. If your question isn’t addressed below, get in touch with us and we’ll provide the information you need.
What can I expect as a first time client?
With our expertise in genealogy research, we can help you uncover the fascinating details of your family history. Our projects are tailored to your specific needs, whether it's discovering new ancestors or tracing back to a particular time period. We offer a range of services including creating a detailed family tree, providing reports on a specific ancestor, or even creating a beautiful history book that tells your family's unique story. We also offer genetic genealogy services to confirm any paperwork trails or find hidden mysteries.
How does the genealogy research process work?
Once we understand your goals during a free discovery call, we gather existing information, access historical records, and begin building or expanding your family tree. Depending on your package, we also incorporate DNA results, heirloom research, and narrative storytelling. We keep you updated throughout the journey.
What types of records do you use?
We use a wide range of sources: census records, immigration papers, birth/marriage/death certificates, military records, newspaper archives, probate documents, church registries, and more. Every record helps add depth and accuracy to your family’s story.
Can you work with my Ancestry, 23andMe, or MyHeritage DNA results?
Yes! We can interpret DNA test results from major companies and integrate them into your research. DNA is especially useful for confirming biological relationships, solving adoption mysteries, and uncovering unknown ancestors.
How does DNA testing fit into the family history process?
DNA testing can be a powerful tool to enhance your family history journey, especially when paired with traditional genealogical research. At Family Heritage Sleuths, we use DNA to:
-
Confirm family connections across generations
-
Break through brick walls in your research where records are missing or incomplete
-
Identify unknown relatives and uncover new family branches
-
Explore ethnic origins and ancestral migration patterns
If you've already taken a DNA test with companies like AncestryDNA, 23andMe, or MyHeritage, we can incorporate those results into your project. If you haven't tested yet, no worries — we’ll guide you through choosing the right service and explain how to get started.
Your privacy and trust are paramount. We treat your DNA data with the utmost confidentiality and only use it to support your research goals. Whether you're looking to confirm a family mystery or discover something new, DNA adds a deeper, more personal layer to your family’s story.
I’ve already started my family tree. Can you work from that?
Absolutely. Many of our clients come to us with a partial tree, documents, or DNA matches. We verify what you have, correct inconsistencies, and build from there to create a fuller, more accurate picture.
What if I have a brick wall ancestor?
At Family Heritage Sleuths, we focus on providing our clients with accurate and detailed research reports, even when the findings may not be what you were hoping for. Our team of knowledgeable and experienced researchers are dedicated to exploring every possible avenue and never giving up until we have the answers our clients deserve.
What if you can’t find anything?
In some cases, records may be limited due to time period, geographic region, or lost documentation. If we hit a true dead end, we’ll explain why and provide you with everything we did uncover — plus next-step recommendations or alternatives.
How long does a typical project take?
It depends on the package. Starter trees take 2–3 weeks, while full narrative histories may take 12–20 weeks. We’ll give you a clear timeline up front, and we keep you informed every step of the way.
Is my information kept private?
Yes. We treat your family history with the highest level of confidentiality. Your information is never shared or published without your consent. You control what’s included in any final product.
How is my DNA data protected?
We understand that DNA data is deeply personal — and protecting your privacy is one of our highest priorities.
At Family Heritage Sleuths, we follow strict confidentiality standards. Here’s how we handle your DNA information:
-
You stay in control: We only access and analyze your DNA data with your explicit permission.
-
We use your data for research purposes only: Your results are used solely to support your family history project — never for marketing, sharing, or resale.
-
We don’t store DNA files: Once your research is complete, we securely delete any DNA-related files we accessed or downloaded.
-
We respect platform privacy rules: If you’ve tested with a service like AncestryDNA or 23andMe, we operate strictly within their privacy guidelines.
Your trust means everything to us. Our role is to help you uncover meaningful insights — not to take ownership of your data. If you ever have questions or want to limit how your DNA is used, we’re here to support your choices every step of the way.
Do you offer printed family books or charts?
Yes! Many of our packages include a digital booklet, and premium packages offer beautifully printed family storybooks, wall charts, or keepsake tree designs. Custom printing is also available as an add-on.
Do you work with international ancestry?
Yes. We regularly work with U.S., European, and some Latin American ancestry, depending on record availability. If you have ancestors from a less-documented region, we’ll assess feasibility during your consultation.
How do I get started?
It’s easy. Just book a free 15-minute discovery call using the Contact Us page. We’ll chat about your goals and recommend the best approach for your project.
Do you have a customer referral program?
We do offer a referral program because we believe that the best way to grow our business is through word of mouth from satisfied clients. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you uncover your family’s heritage.