Before you delete: key things to know
Deleting your 23andMe account is irreversible and means you will lose access to all personal services, including DNA results, Relatives, Traits, and Health Predispositions. Before you proceed, make sure you have downloaded any data you want to keep, understand that deletion does not automatically remove data from research if it has already been used, and note that account deletion is separate from opting out of research or marketing communications.
| Item | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Account deletion effect | Deactivates account and requests data deletion | 23andMe Help & Privacy Policy |
| Download vs delete | Download first to retain copies of reports | 23andMe Download Center |
| Research data note | May require separate opt-out before deletion | 23andMe Research Consent |
How to delete your 23andMe account
Web steps (desktop)
To delete your account on the website, sign in, go to Settings (the cog icon), select Privacy, then choose Delete Account. Follow the prompts to confirm your identity and the reasons for leaving. After submission, 23andMe will send a confirmation email with a link to finalize the request. Completing that link triggers the deletion process.
Mobile steps (iOS/Android)
In the 23andMe app, tap your profile icon or menu, navigate to Settings, then tap Privacy and select Delete Account. Confirm your identity and follow the on-screen instructions. The app will guide you to finalize deletion via email or in-app confirmation depending on your device and app version.
What happens after you submit the request
After you submit the deletion request, 23andMe typically sends a confirmation email with a link you must click to complete the process. Clicking the link tells 23andMe to proceed to delete or deactivate your account and associated data as described in their privacy policy. You may need to confirm one more time to ensure you understand that this action cannot be undone. If you do not confirm, the request will not proceed.
Important privacy and data considerations
Research participation
If you contributed data to research, deleting your account does not automatically remove your data from studies that are already underway or have been aggregated. You should separately opt out of research before deleting your account if you want your data removed from active projects. Visit the Research settings in your account or contact support for specific steps.
Marketing and communications
Deleting your account is distinct from unsubscribing from marketing emails. To stop marketing messages, use the Unsubscribe link in any email or adjust your Communication Preferences while your account is still active. After account deletion, you should no longer receive account-related messages, but prior consent records may persist until fully processed.
Data retention and legal obligations
Even after you request deletion, 23andMe may retain certain data for legal, tax, security, or fraud prevention purposes, or as required by law. This can include transaction records, support logs, and safety-related information. Such retained data is stored separately and not used to provide your personal services.
Alternatives to deleting your account
If your goal is to limit data use rather than remove everything, consider these options before choosing full deletion:
- Opt out of research: disable research sharing in the Research or Privacy settings.
- Limit data collection: adjust which features you enable, such as Health or Trait reporting.
- Download your data: export reports, Relatives lists, and other files for your records.
- Adjust sharing: remove shared connections or hide profile elements from Relatives.
Troubleshooting common issues
If the Delete Account option is missing, you may not have the right permissions (for example, a family organizer account) or you may be using an outdated app or browser session. Try signing in on the latest web browser, verify your email, and check that your profile has no restrictions. If the button still does not work, contact 23andMe support with your registered email and details of the issue.
| Aspect | Detail | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Confirmation step | You must click a link in a confirmation email | Prevents accidental deletions |
| Separate research opt-out | Required to fully remove data from studies | Protects shared research contributions |
| Download first | Save reports, relatives, and ancestry data locally | Ensures you keep copies before deletion |
| Processing time | Deletion may take days after confirmation | Account and data removal are not instant |
Before you proceed: quick checklist
- Download your reports, ancestry data, and any files you want to keep.
- Review active subscriptions or billing if your account includes paid services.
- Check whether you are a family organizer and manage members if needed.
- Opt out of research and update communication preferences if you only want to reduce data use.
- Confirm you want irreversible deletion and understand that some data may be retained for legal or compliance reasons.
Summary
To delete your 23andMe account, sign in, navigate to Settings > Privacy, and use the Delete Account option on web or in the app. Confirm your identity via email and complete any final prompts. Remember to download your data first if you want to keep reports, and separately opt out of research if you do not want your data used in studies. Deletion is permanent and removes access to DNA results and personal services, though some data may be retained for legal or compliance purposes.