What Happens to Your 23andMe / Ancestry Account When You Die
Quick Facts
Deadline
None
Difficulty
Easy
Key Info
DNA data can be deleted or retained
Step-by-Step Guide
Document your accounts
Note which DNA testing services you use and your account email.
Estimated time: 5 min
Decide: keep or delete DNA data
Choose whether you want family to retain access to your DNA results or have the data permanently deleted.
Estimated time: 10 min
Cancel subscriptions
If subscribed to Ancestry+ or 23andMe+, cancel to stop monthly billing.
Estimated time: 5 min
Family contacts service
Family can contact the service with Death Certificate to close the account or retain access per your wishes.
Document Now Checklist
- Service names
- Account emails
- Subscription status
- Keep vs delete preference
Last verified: June 2026. Platform policies may change. Verify current procedures directly with 23andMe / Ancestry. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Related Guides
MyChart / Patient Portals
Document all doctors, hospitals, and patient portal accounts.
Health Insurance
Dependents on your health plan lose coverage when the primary holder dies. They have a 60-day special enrollment period to find new coverage.
Medicare
Note your Medicare number, Part A/B/C/D enrollment status, and any Medigap/supplement plan.
Protect your 23andMe / Ancestry account — and all your others
Document your digital life in a zero-knowledge encrypted vault. 1,800+ platform guides. Dead Man's Switch. Everything your family needs.
Start your free trial →