If either parent is unsure if a man is the father of the child, they should consider getting genetic testing. The Acknowledgment of Paternity (AOP) form should not be used unless both parents are certain that the man listed on the form is the biological father.

A genetic test, also called a DNA test, can determine if the alleged father is the biological father. The test is 99.9% accurate in determining the probability that a man is the biological father.

The genetic, or DNA test, is administered by collecting samples, which are sent to a laboratory to compare the details from the child’s sample with similar traits in the man’s and mother’s sample. In most cases, a buccal swab of the cheek is taken from the mother, child, and alleged father.

The test will show with 99.9% certainty that a man is or is not the biological father of the child.

Not at all. In most cases, a buccal swab of the cheek is taken from the mother, child, and alleged father. The test consists of a gentle swab of the inside of each cheek and takes less than a minute.

Genetic testing can be performed on children as young as newborns by utilizing a buccal swab test. The test consists of a gentle swab of the inside of each cheek and takes less than a minute.

• Parents can make private arrangements with the hospital or a paternity testing laboratory.
• LabCorp
• DNA Diagnostics Center
• Child Support Enforcement contracts with two genetic testing laboratories. Applying for services may allow you to receive genetic testing at no cost. For more information on genetic testing locations, please call 1.888.LAHELPU (1.888.524.3578).

If parents make private arrangements for genetic testing, the parents will be responsible for the cost. If either parent receives help from Child Support Enforcement, the State pays for the test. The court may order the father to re-pay the cost of the genetic test if paternity is established.

The mother can contact the local child support enforcement office for assistance in obtaining genetic testing when the father lives out of state. Browse the list of Child Support Enforcement agencies.

Child Support Enforcement may assist an applicant in establishing paternity when the alleged father is deceased so that the child will have inheritance rights and/or the right to receive Social Security or veterans’ benefits.

• The parent who is not incarcerated can complete their portion of the AOP and send it to the other parent, if the incarcerated parent has a way to have the affidavit notarized while in custody. Once the affidavit is notarized, it can then be mailed back to the other parent or directly to Vital Records.
• If genetic testing is desired to establish paternity, either person can contact Child Support Enforcement. Genetic testing will be completed by a contracted lab for the person who is incarcerated.