Return Policy

Our commitment to fair and transparent return, refund, and cancellation policies for all FamilySearch services.

Last Updated: October 15, 2023 | Effective Date: October 15, 2023

DNA Test Kits

30-day return policy for unopened kits. Opened kits may be eligible for partial refund.

Digital Services

No refunds for digital products, subscriptions, or downloaded content once accessed.

Donations

Donations are generally non-refundable but exceptions may apply in special circumstances.

General Return Policy

FamilySearch International is committed to customer satisfaction. This Return Policy outlines the terms and conditions for returns, refunds, and cancellations of our products and services. Please read this policy carefully before making any purchases.

Important Note

Most FamilySearch services are provided free of charge. This policy primarily applies to paid products and services such as DNA test kits, premium features, and donations.

Key Principles

  • We aim to provide clear and fair return policies for all paid products
  • Digital services generally cannot be returned once accessed
  • Physical products have specific return windows and conditions
  • All refund requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis

DNA Test Kit Returns

Return Eligibility

FamilySearch DNA test kits may be returned under the following conditions:

1

Unopened Kits

Unopened DNA test kits in original packaging may be returned within 30 days of purchase for a full refund, minus shipping costs.

2

Opened Kits

Opened but unused kits (swab not activated) may be eligible for a partial refund of 50% within 14 days of purchase.

3

Used Kits

Kits where the DNA sample has been collected and activated cannot be returned or refunded.

Important Conditions

To be eligible for a return, your DNA test kit must be in the same condition as when you received it, in the original packaging, and accompanied by the original receipt or proof of purchase. Return shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer unless the return is due to our error.

Digital Services & Subscriptions

No Refund Policy for Digital Products

Due to the nature of digital products and services, we generally do not offer refunds for:

  • Premium subscription services
  • Downloadable content or digital publications
  • Online courses or webinars
  • Digital records or document access
  • Software or mobile applications

Subscription Cancellations

You may cancel premium subscriptions at any time, but no refunds will be provided for the current billing period. Your subscription will remain active until the end of the current billing cycle, after which it will not renew.

Exceptions for Digital Services

In rare circumstances, we may consider refund requests for digital services if:

  • The service was purchased by mistake (within 24 hours)
  • The service is fundamentally defective or non-functional
  • Required by applicable consumer protection laws

Donations & Contributions

FamilySearch is a nonprofit organization that relies on donations to provide free genealogy services worldwide. Our donation policy is as follows:

Standard Policy

Donations to FamilySearch are generally non-refundable as they are considered charitable contributions. Once a donation is processed, it cannot typically be returned.

Donation Refund Exceptions

In exceptional cases, we may consider refunding donations under these circumstances:

  • Unauthorized or fraudulent transaction
  • Processing error (duplicate charge, incorrect amount)
  • Donation made in error (within 7 days of transaction)
  • Legal requirement in your jurisdiction

Tax Deductibility

Donations to FamilySearch International may be tax-deductible in certain jurisdictions. Please consult with a tax professional regarding the deductibility of your contribution. Receipts are provided for all donations.

How to Request a Return or Refund

Return Process

To initiate a return or refund request, please follow these steps:

1

Contact Support

Email our support team at returns@familysearch.org with your order details and reason for return.

2

Receive Instructions

We will respond within 2 business days with return instructions and authorization if applicable.

3

Ship Item

For physical products, ship the item to the provided address with the return authorization number.

4

Receive Refund

Once we receive and inspect the return, we will process your refund within 10 business days.

Processing Time

Refunds typically appear on your credit card statement within 5-10 business days after we process the return. The exact timing depends on your financial institution.

Need Help With a Return?

If you have questions about our Return Policy or need assistance with a return or refund, please contact our support team:

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