23andMe Terms of Service (US)

Implications

• Mandatory arbitration clause limits your ability to sue in court or join class action lawsuits.
• Terms apply specifically to users in the United States or those accessing services from the U.S.
• You must be 18 years or older to use the services, ensuring adult consent.
• No refunds are provided except as required by law, even for partially used services.
• 23andMe may modify or discontinue services without notice.
• Failed sample processing will be reattempted at no extra cost to the user.
• You are not entitled to any compensation for research or commercial products developed from your genetic information.
• 23andMe services are for research, informational, and educational use only, not for medical advice.
• You grant 23andMe a perpetual, irrevocable license to use your user content.
• The service may include links to other sites, but 23andMe is not responsible for their content.
• Privacy is governed by 23andMe's Privacy Statement, which is separate from these terms.
• You cannot use the service for forensic genealogy purposes.
• 23andMe may share your genetic information with third parties for research with your consent.
• You cannot use the services if you are barred under laws of your jurisdiction.
• You can delete your account at any time from your account settings.
• Additional services may have their own terms and conditions.
• The laboratory may not be able to process your sample, and the process may result in errors.
• 23andMe may make changes to the Terms and will notify users of material changes.
• Genetic counseling is encouraged to help understand your results.
• 23andMe is licensed in California, but not all jurisdictions require a license for genetic testing.
• Unauthorized resale of 23andMe products is not supported and voids warranties.
• You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your account and password.
• You may request that your sample not be processed if you change your mind before processing begins.
• 23andMe has the right to terminate your access to services for violations of the Terms.
• You are responsible for complying with all local laws regarding online conduct and content.
• 23andMe offers a product warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
• You may not use the services to upload or transmit any derogatory, defamatory, obscene, or offensive content.

Things to watch out for

• The mandatory arbitration clause significantly restricts your legal rights in case of a dispute.
• 23andMe's no-refund policy could result in loss of funds if you're dissatisfied with the service.
• Your genetic information could be used for 23andMe's research and commercial products without compensation to you.
• The perpetual license you grant to 23andMe for user content might be broader than you expect.
• Unauthorized resale of 23andMe products voids warranties and guarantees.

AI recommendations

Before using 23andMe's services, consider the implications of the mandatory arbitration clause and the fact that you waive the right to participate in class action lawsuits. If privacy is a concern, review the Privacy Statement in detail to understand how your genetic information may be used or shared. Remember, the service is not a substitute for professional medical advice, so it's important to consult with healthcare professionals regarding your genetic information. Lastly, be cautious about providing your genetic information and ensure you understand the potential for unexpected or sensitive discoveries about yourself.

FAQs

What happens if 23andMe cannot process my sample?

If the initial processing fails, 23andMe will reprocess the same sample at no charge. If the second attempt fails, they will send another kit for free. If the second attempt also fails, you are entitled to a refund, less shipping and handling.

Can I get a refund if I'm not happy with the services?

23andMe's policy states that payments are non-refundable except as required by law, and there are no refunds or credits for partially used services.

Do I retain any rights to my genetic information after using 23andMe's services?

While you retain rights to the genetic information you provide, you grant 23andMe a perpetual, irrevocable license to use your user content, which includes the genetic information, for various purposes, including research and development of new products and services.