How to Upload Your 23andMe DNA to GEDmatch: A Step-by-Step Guide

Why Use GEDmatch with 23andMe?

Your 23andMe DNA test is just the beginning. By uploading your raw data to GEDmatch, you unlock a world of advanced genealogy tools and a massive database that goes beyond 23andMe’s limits. It’s free, easy, and packed with possibilities. Here’s why it’s worth it:

Take your 23andMe results farther with GEDmatch and get instant access to your DNA match list. And even better - it's free.
Create your free account to explore more than 2 million DNA profiles from GEDmatch.
You’re just a few clicks away from expanding your DNA knowledge. Testing through 23andMe only provides matches within their database - GEDmatch will work to match you to profiles across our users from other major DNA testing services.

Expand your view beyond the 23andMe database providing you with any deeper information about your ancestral history and connections to other ethnicities - clues to what makes your truly unique.
When you test through 23andMe and upload your DNA file on GEDmatch, you automatically double-check the results of your tests on the GEDmatch database which has more than 2 million profiles and continues to grow.
With the click of a button, you'll be able to connect with those who have similar genetic codes as you. You may find long-lost relatives or distant counsins that could provide valuable insight into your genealogy. We've even had stories of unknown siblings from different parts of the world!

Benefits

Discover DNA Relatives

Find matches across platforms:
Connect with relatives who tested with Ancestry, MyHeritage, or other services—not just 23andMe.

Access Unique TOols

Explore advanced tools:
Dive into features like Admixture (ethnicity breakdown) and One-to-Many DNA comparisons.

Break through brick walls

Build your family tree:
Discover distant cousins and trace your lineage with real data.

Features

Powerful Genetic Genealogy Tools

GEDmatch is a free, public DNA database. It’s a genetic community interested in preserving both biological genealogy and genetic privacy.

Worldwide Connections

GEDmatch has people from around the world who share interests in genealogy and genetics. Some of our users join “Ancestor Projects” – A GEDmatch Ancestor Project is a group of people who are all related to each other in some way and want to find out more about their family history together.

Create a DNA Public Profile

Your profile on GEDmatch can show who you are related to as well as what segments of DNA you share with them or which segments they might share with you.

How to Get Started

Do you have your 23andMe Data?

How to Upload Your 23andMe Data to GEDmatch

Uploading your 23andMe raw DNA data to GEDmatch is quick and simple. Follow these steps to unlock a treasure trove of genetic insights.

1Log In to Your 23andMe Account

Start by accessing your 23andMe account—it’s where your raw DNA data lives.

Navigate to the top-right corner and click your profile icon.
Select “Settings” from the dropdown menu.
Scroll to the “23andMe Data” section and click “Download.”

2Download Your Raw DNA Data

Downloading your data takes just a few clicks—and don’t worry, it’s secure and private.

Confirm your request by following 23andMe’s prompts (you may need to verify your email).
Wait for an email with a download link (this usually arrives within minutes).
Save the ZIP file to your computer and extract it to find your raw data file (it’ll look something like “genome_yourname_v5.txt”).

3Upload to GEDmatch

Now it’s time to bring your data to GEDmatch and start exploring.

Log in to your GEDmatch account (or sign up for free if you’re new).
From the homepage, find the “Upload Your DNA” section under “Raw DNA File Uploads.”
Click “Choose File,” select your 23andMe raw data file, and hit “Upload.”
Allow 24 hours for processing—then you’re ready to explore matches!

Upload Your DNA File to GEDmatch

Sign up for free and find genetic matches on GEDmatch. Use it as a research tool or share DNA data with others to find relatives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is GEDmatch free to use with 23andMe data?

Yes! Basic features like uploading and matching are free. Optional premium tools are available for a small fee.

How long does it take to see matches?

After uploading, processing typically takes 12–24 hours. You’ll get an email when your data is ready.

Is my data secure on GEDmatch?

GEDmatch prioritizes your control. You can use an alias for privacy and delete your data at any time. You also choose your privacy settings for your DNA profile when you upload it, and can change it at any time.

Can I upload data from other tests too?

Absolutely—GEDmatch supports raw data from Ancestry, MyHeritage, and more.

What if I run into issues?

Double-check your file format and reach out to GEDmatch support if needed.