Can You Get a DNA Test of Deceased Parents?
Paternity is easily established through DNA testing of living fathers, but, unfortunately, sometimes the alleged father of the child is deceased. Although the father can’t be present in the child’s life or assist the mother in raising them, the child can still benefit from confirming their paternity. Once a child has a confirmed parentage, they have access to:
- Inheritance rights
- The father’s medical history
- Eligibility for social security or survivor benefits
Although confirming a deceased parent is a little more challenging, it’s worth the effort for the benefit of the child.
There are a few ways to confirm a deceased father’s paternity. Perhaps the easiest way is to perform a DNA test on the parents or siblings of the alleged father. We can also test proven children of the alleged father. Although the genetic ties won’t be as strong as to the father, if the child is related to their grandparent, aunt, uncle, or half-sibling, there will be genetic matches. This is enough to confirm paternity.
If alleged grandparents or siblings aren’t available, a paternity test can be performed using a sample containing the alleged father’s DNA. We can test the alleged father’s blood, hair, fingernails, toenails, or cheek swab. Of course, these are only possible to obtain before burial or cremation, so this isn’t always an option. In some cases, the cremated remains can be tested, but this is less common.
All children deserve to know their paternity. This knowledge can benefit them for the rest of their lives, so families should do all they can to get paternity answers for the child.
With over 2,000 centers nationwide, DNA Paternity Testing Centers is one of the largest, most affordable networks of accredited DNA testing labs in the United States. Our price is unbeatable without sacrificing quality. We offer DNA testing for paternity, maternity, and all other relationships, such as grandparents, siblings, aunts, and uncles. Call us today at 866.944.9546 or ORDER ONLINE!
