
Unusual Sample Processing — Tier A
Submitting a non-standard sample instead of a cheek swab (Tier A)
- Participants:
- One non-standard sample
Quantity
Overview
When a participant can't provide a standard cheek swab, the lab can sometimes work from an alternative sample. Tier A covers the most straightforward non-standard samples. The lab confirms which tier a sample actually falls into once it receives and assesses it; if your sample needs more work than the tier you bought, we'll contact you before proceeding.
This is an add-on, not a standalone test — it must be ordered together with a base DNA test. Recovery from non-standard samples is never guaranteed and depends on the sample's condition, and this peace-of-mind, informational service is not chain-of-custody or admissible in court.
When you need this
Choose a sample-processing tier when a participant can't provide a standard cheek swab and you need the lab to attempt recovery from an alternative sample instead. Tier A covers the most straightforward non-standard samples.
You don't have to get the tier exactly right: the lab assesses your sample on arrival and assigns the appropriate processing, and we'll contact you before proceeding if it needs a different tier than the one you bought. This is an add-on and must be ordered together with a base DNA test in the same order.
The laboratory determines the appropriate processing once it receives and assesses your sample. If your sample needs a different tier than the one you purchased, we will contact you before proceeding. Recovery from non-standard samples is never guaranteed and depends on the sample's type and condition.
What you get
- Specialized handling for one non-standard sample
- Guidance on how to package and submit the sample
How it works
- 1
Order your kit
Choose your test and check out online. No appointment or doctor's order needed.
- 2
We ship within 1 business day
Your collection kit ships free with cheek swabs, step-by-step instructions, and a return mailer.
- 3
Collect samples at home
Each participant gently swabs the inside of their cheek. Painless and takes about a minute per person.
- 4
Mail samples to the lab
Drop your samples in the mail using the supplied envelope. Prepaid Return Mailer or FedEx Overnight Label Provided. Lab processing time starts when the lab receives your samples.
- 5
Receive results securely
The lab sends your report to us and we forward it to you privately by email.
Turnaround timeline
- 1Kit ships — Within 1 business day of your order.
- 2In transit to you — A few days, depending on your location.
- 3You collect & mail back — At your own pace. The clock for lab processing has not started yet.
- 4Lab processing — Begins only when the lab receives your samples.
- 5Results delivered — Sent to you privately by email.
Accuracy & methodology
Success depends heavily on the type and condition of the sample. If usable DNA can't be obtained, the lab will let you know. Testing is performed by our accredited partner laboratory.
Testing is performed by our AABB-accredited partner laboratory.
Your privacy & trust
Your privacy matters to us, and DNA information is among the most sensitive personal data there is.
- Samples are used only to perform the test you ordered and are destroyed after testing is complete. <!-- TODO: confirm exact sample-retention window with fulfillment lab before publishing -->
- Results are delivered privately by email and are never sold, rented, or shared with third parties for marketing.
- Your DNA data is treated as sensitive personal information. While at-home, informational tests are generally not covered by HIPAA, we handle your results with comparable care.
- You can request deletion of your records at any time by contacting us.
Frequently asked questions
- What counts as a Tier A sample?
- Tier A covers the most straightforward non-standard samples. If you're unsure which tier applies, contact us before ordering and we'll help you choose.
Need a legal DNA test?
Need results for a custody case, child support, immigration, or any other legal matter? An at-home test cannot be used for those purposes. You'll need a court-approved, chain-of-custody DNA test performed through an accredited laboratory, where a neutral third party verifies every participant's identity and handles the samples.