Family history researcher for hire

Individuals and families curious about their roots, people with newly arrived DNA results, and family members putting together a book or reunion gift.

Hourly rate or a fixed price per research project, usually with a deposit up front. Extras include a printed or bound family history, charts and record copies.

• Patient, detailed research
• Clear writing and source citing
• Reading old handwriting and records
• Explaining findings kindly to clients

• Records vary by province, and Quebec records are often in French, so check what you can read and access
• Archive access rules and privacy laws limit recent records, so check what you may see and share
• Be honest that some lines can't be traced and agree what the client pays for if research hits a dead end
• Check whether you need a municipal home-based business licence, and whether to register for GST/HST once revenue grows
• Consider professional liability insurance and a written client contract

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $300 to $2,000, depending on your setup. Also consider whether you want professional liability insurance and a written client contract, which are worth checking.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $300 to $3,000, depending on how many clients you take on and how much time you put in. Be honest that some lines can't be traced, and agree what clients pay for if research hits a dead end.

Check what records you can read and access, since they vary by province and Quebec records are often in French. Also check archive access rules and privacy laws on recent records, and whether you need a municipal home-based business licence.