How to Fix GEDmatch DNA Matches Kit Issue Not Updating: Easy Guide

GEDmatch is one of the most popular platforms for genetic genealogy enthusiasts, allowing users to upload raw DNA data from multiple testing companies and perform detailed comparisons. One of its primary features is the DNA matches kit, which lists potential relatives based on shared DNA segments. This tool helps genealogists identify family connections, explore ancestral roots, and confirm relationships.

However, some users encounter issues where their DNA matches kit does not update, causing frustration and potentially delaying research. This problem can occur for various reasons, including technical glitches, account settings, browser issues, or server delays. Understanding the possible causes and solutions can help users restore proper functionality and continue their genealogical work effectively.

This guide provides a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and resolving the GEDmatch DNA matches kit not updating issue.

Understanding the DNA Matches Kit

The DNA matches kit on GEDmatch is generated when a user uploads a raw DNA file and runs the One-to-Many tool. This kit provides a list of individuals in the GEDmatch database who share DNA with the user, ranked by shared centimorgans and other metrics.

The kit includes key information such as match names, kit numbers, total shared centimorgans, largest shared segments, and predicted relationships. Users often rely on this information to identify close relatives, distant cousins, or potential ancestral lines.

When the DNA matches kit does not update, it can prevent new matches from appearing and may interfere with ongoing research. Identifying why the kit is not updating is essential to restoring functionality.

Common Causes of a DNA Matches Kit Not Updating

There are several factors that can cause a GEDmatch DNA matches kit to stop updating:

Server Maintenance or Delays: GEDmatch occasionally performs system updates, maintenance, or database optimization, which may temporarily prevent new matches from appearing.

Incomplete Kit Processing: Newly uploaded DNA files require processing before matches can be generated. If processing is not complete, the kit may not update.

Browser or Cache Problems: Stored cache, cookies, or outdated browser versions may prevent the website from displaying the most recent match information.

Subscription or Tier Limitations: Certain advanced features or updates may require an active Tier 1 subscription. Expired subscriptions can interfere with kit updates.

Privacy or Permission Settings: DNA kits with restricted privacy settings may not update matches until permissions are modified.

Data Upload Issues: If the original DNA file was corrupted, incomplete, or improperly formatted, the matches kit may not function correctly.

Network or Device Issues: Slow or unstable internet connections or device-specific problems can prevent the website from updating the matches list.

Check GEDmatch System Status and Announcements

Before troubleshooting, it is important to determine if the issue originates from GEDmatch itself. Server maintenance or updates can temporarily disrupt the updating of DNA matches kits.

Visit the GEDmatch homepage or dashboard and check for announcements regarding maintenance or system upgrades. If maintenance is in progress, the best course of action is to wait until services are restored. Patience is often the simplest solution in these cases, as the platform typically resumes normal operation shortly after updates are completed.

Confirm Kit Processing Status

A common reason for matches not updating is that the DNA kit is still undergoing processing. Newly uploaded DNA files must be analyzed before matches are generated.

Log into your GEDmatch account and check the status of your DNA kit. If it is marked as processing, wait until it is completed before expecting updates in the matches kit. Attempting to view matches on a kit that is not fully processed can result in outdated or missing information.

Review Privacy and Permission Settings

GEDmatch allows users to control privacy settings for each DNA kit. If a kit is set to restricted, research-only, or otherwise limited, updates to matches may be delayed or blocked.

Verify that your kit is set to allow matching and sharing. If necessary, adjust the privacy settings to ensure that your matches kit can update properly. Making these adjustments can often resolve issues related to missing or delayed matches.

Clear Browser Cache and Cookies

Web-based tools like GEDmatch often rely on browser data to function correctly. Stored cache or cookies can sometimes interfere with the display of updated information.

Clear your browser cache and cookies, then close and reopen the browser. Log back into your GEDmatch account and check the matches kit. This step can resolve issues related to page loading, outdated information, or incomplete match displays.

Update Your Web Browser

Using an outdated browser can cause compatibility issues with GEDmatch tools. Modern web technologies used by the platform may not function properly on older versions.

Ensure that your browser is updated to the latest version. Popular browsers such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and Safari are recommended for optimal performance. Updating the browser improves functionality, security, and reduces the likelihood of errors in displaying DNA matches.

Disable Browser Extensions

Certain browser extensions, particularly ad blockers or script blockers, can interfere with GEDmatch tools. These extensions may prevent essential scripts from running, causing match lists not to update.

Temporarily disable browser extensions and refresh the matches kit page. If the kit updates after disabling extensions, re-enable them one by one to identify the cause. Once identified, configure the extension to allow scripts from GEDmatch.

Verify Subscription or Tier 1 Access

Some features of GEDmatch, including updates to the DNA matches kit, may require a Tier 1 subscription. Expired or inactive subscriptions can prevent new matches from appearing.

Check your subscription status in the account dashboard. Renewing or upgrading your Tier 1 membership may resolve the issue and restore the kit’s ability to update.

Test on a Different Device or Network

If the matches kit still does not update, try accessing GEDmatch on a different device such as another computer, tablet, or smartphone. This helps determine whether the issue is device-specific.

Switching to a different internet connection can also be helpful. Slow or unstable networks may prevent the platform from updating match information promptly.

Re-upload DNA Files if Necessary

In rare cases, the original DNA file may have been corrupted or improperly formatted, preventing the matches kit from updating. If you suspect this is the case, consider re-uploading the raw DNA file from the testing company.

Allow GEDmatch to fully process the new upload before checking the matches kit. This ensures that any errors caused by file corruption are resolved.

Contact GEDmatch Support

If all troubleshooting steps fail, contacting GEDmatch support is the recommended course of action. Provide detailed information about the issue, including the kit number, the exact problem experienced, your browser and device, and any steps you have already taken to resolve it.

Clear and detailed communication with support can accelerate resolution and help identify any underlying system problems.

Maintain Regular Backups of Match Data

To prevent future disruptions, regularly download and back up your GEDmatch matches kit data. Save copies in multiple locations, such as an external hard drive or cloud storage.

This approach ensures that your research is preserved, even if the online matches kit temporarily fails to update or data is lost due to technical issues.

Final Thoughts

The GEDmatch DNA Matches kit Issue is a crucial tool for genetic genealogy research, allowing users to identify potential relatives and explore ancestral connections. When the matches kit fails to update, it can be frustrating, but most issues can be resolved by checking kit processing, verifying privacy settings, clearing browser cache, updating browsers, or reviewing subscription status. Testing on different devices, re-uploading DNA files, and contacting support can also restore functionality. Maintaining regular backups and organized records ensures that research continues uninterrupted. With these strategies, users can reliably manage their GEDmatch DNA matches kit and continue exploring their family history with confidence.