Before you delete your 23andMe account

Sources: 23andMe, "Requesting 23andMe Account Closure", https://support.23andme.org/hc/en-us/articles/42964416955543-Requesting-23andMe-Account-Closure (updated 13 Oct 2026; read 14 Oct 2026); 23andMe, "Accessing Your Raw Genetic Data" (updated 10 Oct 2026; read 14 Oct 2026).

Many people asked 23andMe to delete their data after its 2025 bankruptcy and sale. Deleting is your right. Do it in the right order, because deletion cannot be undone and 23andMe cannot send you anything afterwards.

In order

1. 1Request your raw data file first. See "How to download your raw DNA file from 23andMe". It usually takes about a week, up to 30 days.
2. 2Wait until the file is on your computer and opens. Keep a copy somewhere safe (it is your genetic data; treat it like a passport scan).
3. 3Save anything else you want from Account Settings (reports, ancestry results). 23andMe recommends downloading your information before you ask to delete, since it cannot answer access requests afterwards.
4. 4Then delete: in Account Settings, request account deletion. 23andMe e-mails you to confirm. Once you confirm, deletion starts at once, you lose access, and it cannot be cancelled or reversed.

What 23andMe says happens

• If you took part in research, your information is not used in future research projects.
• Stored saliva samples are discarded.
• It keeps limited information, including the record of your request and what the law requires (see its Privacy Statement).

Then