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 dollar depending on the nature and complexity of the test. So how much is a DNA test and what factors affect the cost? Let's find out below.
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.
The number of people involved in the test will determine the number of samples collected and the number of tests done. This will inevitably affect the cost of the DNA test. In paternity tests, the mother's sample is usually not charged extra if it is included in the test. 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 will depend on the type of test being carried out. An ancestry test will usually take 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 additional testing. You can always request for an expedited service where you can get results in 24 to 48 hours. You can expect an increase in the cost of the DNA test by as much as double the original cost.
The cost of DNA testing varies from country to country. It is usually more expensive in countries with a smaller market and fewer competitors. In countries where testing is common and the market is large, there are better economies of scale. Competition is also usually higher and this helps keep the cost of DNA testing low.
How much is a DNA test? The answer is not straightforward. The costs vary widely based on the type of DNA test you want. For example, an ancestry DNA test usually costs more than a paternity test due to the complexity of the analysis. The sample provided will also contribute to the cost of the test. If you provided hair instead of the standard oral swab, the cost will go up since it takes more time and effort to process the hair sample.
The accuracy of a DNA test will not vary between a standard and legal test. However, a legal DNA test is usually more involving and consequently more expensive. A more comprehensive kit will be used to collect the sample. The kit will also need 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
Do not 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 to ensure they have the technical competence required to handle and process samples.
