How Does the Social Security Administration Determine Which DNA Relationship Test Is Appropriate?

The Social Security Administration determines which biological relationship should be tested based on your family's specific circumstances. During your consultation, the Social Security representative may explain which DNA relationship test can be used to help establish the claimed biological relationship.

The first determination is whether a direct father-child DNA test can be performed. When the alleged father's DNA sample is available, direct father-child DNA testing is generally the preferred testing option.

When the alleged father is deceased and no suitable DNA sample is available, the Social Security Administration may discuss alternative relationship testing options. Depending on your family's circumstances, this may include sibling DNA testing or grandparent DNA testing.

Because every Social Security Survivor benefit claim is different, DNA Testing Newark recommends contacting the Social Security Administration before scheduling DNA testing. Speaking with a Social Security representative first helps determine which biological relationship should be tested before the DNA collection process begins.

Which DNA Relationship Test Will the Social Security Administration Accept?

Depending on the biological relatives available, the Social Security Administration may determine that one of the following DNA relationship tests is appropriate for establishing the claimed biological relationship.

Paternity DNA Testing

Direct father-child DNA testing may be appropriate when a suitable DNA specimen from the alleged father is available for comparison. In some situations, a medical examiner or coroner's office may have a suitable DNA specimen available for analysis. We recommend contacting the appropriate office to determine whether a viable specimen exists before scheduling DNA testing. Direct father-child DNA testing is generally the preferred testing option when available.

Sibling DNA Testing

Sibling DNA testing may be appropriate when one or more biological siblings are available for comparison and a direct father-child DNA comparison cannot be performed. Including the mother of the child is recommended to help increase the lab's DNA analysis if available. The Social Security Administration will determine whether sibling DNA testing is appropriate based on your specific family's circumstances.

Grandparent DNA Testing

Grandparent DNA testing may be appropriate when a direct father-child comparison cannot be performed and biological grandparents are available for testing. Including the child's mother helps to increase the lab DNA analysis. The Social Security Administration will determine whether grandparent DNA testing is appropriate based on the available biological relatives and the specific circumstances of your claim.

Please note, All legal DNA Testing services we provide for Social Security benefits are performed by our partner AABB accredited laboratory. The accreditation ensures the standards will meet the Social Security Administration and all government agencies evidence submission guidelines.

Call us today at 866-269-2516 to speak with one of our DNA consultants or to schedule an appointment today.

How much does Legal DNA Testing for Social Security cost?

The cost of a legal DNA test is determined on the type of relationship being determined and specimens being used for analysis. Pricing starts at $499. To learn more about our Legal DNA Testing pricing.

What type samples are collected at my appointment?

Cheek swab collection is the standard method used for DNA testing. Blood sample collection provides the same level of accuracy but is more expensive, invasive, and generally more painful sample collection option.  

Alternative DNA Samples:

The alternative DNA specimens listed below relate to samples the medical examiner or coroner's office may have on file that are viable samples for comparative analysis.

• Blood Card Samples

• Hair Follicles

• Femur Bone

For more detailed information regarding the processing of working with medical examiner or coroner's office. Contact our office at 866-269-2516 today to speak with a DNA Consultant.