When a biological parent passes away and their name is not listed on a child’s birth certificate, the Social Security Administration may require proof of parentage before benefits can be awarded. In many cases, this proof must come from a legal DNA test.

At Northwest DNA Testing, we specialize in postmortem and kinship DNA testing nationwide. Our team works directly with medical examiners, funeral homes, and hospitals across the United States to obtain authorized DNA samples from the deceased, then coordinates collection for the child or other family members. Every case is handled with care, privacy, and professionalism from start to finish.

When a Sample from the Deceased Is Unavailable

If a biological sample no longer exists for the deceased parent, we can perform family relationship testing—comparing DNA from siblings, grandparents, aunts, or uncles—to scientifically establish parentage and satisfy SSA requirements.

How It Works

1. Authorization: The legal next of kin must sign an authorization form allowing the medical examiner, funeral home, or hospital to release the specimen. Our specialists can help coordinate this process anywhere in the U.S.

2. Sample Coordination: We send a collection kit and pre-paid shipping to the authorized facility along with payment instructions.

3. Child or Relative Testing: We’ll arrange a local appointment at one of our partner collection sites—or mail a supervised kit—for the living relative(s) providing comparison samples.

4. Chain of Custody: All samples are collected and shipped under strict AABB-certified chain-of-custody procedures to ensure the results are legally admissible for Social Security, probate, or inheritance cases.

5. Results: Once the analysis is complete, we’ll issue a doctor-signed, notarized DNA report that clearly states the relationship conclusion.

Get Started

Call 1-888-571-2220 to speak with one of our experienced case coordinators, or schedule a consultation online. We’ll guide you through every step—from obtaining authorization to submitting evidence for your Social Security survivor benefits claim.