If I know how a DNA match is related, do I still need to contact them?

Today we have the following question from a Research Like a Pro with DNA study group member:

If you already know the relationship to a match, is there any other reason to contact that match?

Yes, there are many reasons to contact your DNA matches, from verifying their tree, to asking them to share their matches with you. As you establish communication with them, it opens the door for further collaboration. When you need to ask them permission to share their DNA match information and line of descent from the common ancestor, it helps if you have already been in contact.

8 Reasons to Contact Matches

Here are eight reasons to contact your matches. Watch the video above to learn more about each one!

1. Find out their parents or grandparents, ask them to share their tree
2. Collaborate and share photos and stories
3. Verify common ancestors found in AncestryDNA unlinked trees
4. Get help documenting the line of descent from the common ancestors to the match
5. Ask permission to use DNA match info in publications (report, proof argument)
6. Ask them to share their matches at AncestryDNA
7. Establish a sharing connection at 23andMe
8. Ask them to upload their DNA to other sites or take additional DNA tests

Resources

“Sharing AncestryDNA Results,” Ancestry Support (https://support.ancestry.com/s/article/Sharing-AncestryDNA-Results : accessed 24 Feb 2022).

More Research Like a Pro with DNA Q&A Videos

To see more RLP with DNA Q&A videos, go here:

https://familylocket.com/tag/rlp-with-dna-qa/