Looking to get a DNA test done?
The first question that popped up must have been how much it costs. DNA testing is undoubtedly one of the most accurate ways to confirm biological relationships. While various types of DNA tests exist, DNA Paternity testing is the most popular. It helps confirm the relationship between an alleged father and a child. The cost of getting a DNA test varies widely. It can range anywhere from $100 to $2000 depending on the nature and complexity of the test. So how much is a DNA test, and what factors affect the cost?
- DNA Test Quality
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You will probably be compromising on the quality of the test if you go for the lowest-cost provider. Usually, costs vary due to the quality of the consumables used at the lab. You want a provider that uses validated industry-standard reagents and kits such as CRI genetics. Some providers will use “home-brew” consumables to cut on cost.
- Number of Test Subjects
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The number of people involved in the test determines the number of samples collected and the number of tests done. This inevitably affects the cost of the DNA test. If you’re doing a paternity test, you’ll normally not be charged extra for the mother’s sample. If you want to determine whether you are related to several people, then the cost should go up with the number of samples collected for testing.
- Turnaround Times
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Turnaround times depend on the type of test being carried out. An ancestry test usually takes longer than a paternity test. You can expect to get your results after about 3 to 12 weeks, or even longer sometimes. But this usually varies with providers. It largely depends on how fast the DNA can be processed in the lab, and if there will be a need for more testing. You can always request for an expedited service where you can get results in 24 to 48 hours. Expect an increase in the cost of the DNA test by as much as double the original cost.
- Country of Origin
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The cost of DNA testing varies by country. It’s more expensive in countries with a smaller market and fewer competitors. In countries where testing is common, there are better economies of scale due to the size of the market. Competition is usually higher as well. This helps keep the cost of DNA testing low.
- Type of DNA Test
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How much is a DNA test?
Here’s the thing – the answer is not straightforward. Costs vary widely based on the type of DNA test you want. For example, an ancestry DNA test costs more than a paternity test due to the complexity of the analysis. The sample provided also contributes to the cost of the test. If you provide hair instead of the standard oral swab, the cost will go up since it takes more time and effort to process the hair sample.
- Legal vs. Standard DNA Test
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The accuracy of a DNA test is the same for both a standard and a legal test. But, a legal DNA test is usually more involving and consequently more expensive. A more comprehensive kit is used to collect the sample. The kit also needs to be couriered in a way that maintains the required chain of custody. Furthermore, there’s a need for an external third party to notarize the test. There is a whole lot more that goes on behind the scenes when processing a legal DNA test. If you want a legal DNA test done, you might want to confirm the cost well in advance since it will be much higher than a standard test.
- The Company Conducting the DNA Test
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Cost will vary based on the provider. But don’t pick a DNA testing company based solely on cost. You don’t want to be bargain hunting when dealing with a paternity issue. Choose a provider with an accredited laboratory. They have the technical competence required to handle and process samples.
