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Genealogy Guide • By Mark D. Millican • Published 9 August 2026 • Updated 26 October 2026

How to Download a GEDCOM File from Ancestry.com

Exporting your family tree data from Ancestry.com is straightforward. Once downloaded, you can submit this universal GEDCOM file to have your data mapped into a circular ancestral chart, printed and framed.

Official Ancestry.com Video Guide on Exporting GEDCOM Files

Step-by-Step Written Instructions

If you prefer reading, simply follow these six quick steps to export your family tree:

  1. Log into Ancestry.com using your standard email and password.
  2. Navigate to the top menu, click on the "Trees" tab, and select the specific family tree you wish to export from the dropdown list.
  3. Once your tree loads, look at the top left corner. Click on your Tree Name to open a dropdown menu, and select "Tree Settings".
  4. On the Tree Settings page, look to the right-hand column under the "Manage your tree" section. Click the large green button labelled "Export tree".
  5. Ancestry will now begin generating your GEDCOM file. Depending on the size of your tree, this might take a few seconds to a few minutes. You can safely wait on this page.
  6. Once the generation is complete, the green button will change to say "Download your GEDCOM file". Click it one last time, and the `.ged` file will be securely downloaded to your computer!

Tip: Check your file before ordering. You can test your newly downloaded Ancestry file in seconds with our free GEDCOM Checker. It runs entirely in your browser without uploading your data, highlighting any duplicate ancestors, impossible lifespan dates, or detached branches before you order.

What happens to my privacy?

Exporting a GEDCOM file is completely secure. It simply downloads a text-based database file to your local computer. When you submit this file with your order, it is used only to lay out your chart. Your data is never sold or shared, and the raw data and layout files are securely deleted six months after your order, as set out in the Privacy Policy.

Read next

How to Export Your Family Tree as a GEDCOM File (and Get It Printed) Steps for MyHeritage, Findmypast, FamilySearch, RootsMagic and Family Tree Maker too. How to Check a GEDCOM File for Errors: A Free Checker Run the free in-browser checker on the Ancestry file you just exported.

Have your GEDCOM ready?

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Returns & Refunds Policy

Returns Policy Overview

Every product (digital files, unframed prints, or framed prints) available on this site is custom-made to order. To ensure the highest quality and fastest delivery, physical orders are fulfilled by regional print partners (LUMAPRINTS in the US, Artovo in the UK/EU). Because each piece is produced specifically for you upon ordering and data submission, our returns policy is tailored to bespoke manufacturing.

1. Damaged or Defective Items

If your physical order is damaged in transit or contains a manufacturing defect (such as a misprint or structural issue), you are entitled to a free replacement or a full refund.

  • Reporting Timeframe: Please report within 30 days of receiving your item.
  • How to Report: Email contact@markdmillican.co.uk with your order number and photographs of the damaged product and packaging.
  • Resolution: Free replacement expedited at no cost or a full refund to your original payment method.

2. Change of Mind / Buyer's Remorse

Because each design is custom-manufactured exclusively using your unique family data, we do not hold inventory. Therefore, we cannot accept returns or offer refunds for "change of mind" once an order is finalised and approved.

3. Order Cancellations & The Proofing Process

  • Data Pending (Full Refund): Cancel before submitting your GEDCOM or CSV data for a 100% full refund.
  • Proofing Stage (Partial Refund): If you cancel during the proofing stage before final print approval, up to £45 is retained to cover the design work already done and any balance above that is refunded, so a £45 digital-only order is not refundable once proofing has begun.
  • Final Approval (No Refund): Once final proof approval is submitted, printing begins immediately and orders cannot be cancelled or refunded.

4. Lost or Missing Packages

If tracking shows no updates or indicates your package has been delivered but is missing, allow 48 hours and check with neighbours or your local delivery office before contacting us for a replacement claim.

5. Digital Files & Reprints

Your chart files are kept for six months after delivery. In that time a lost digital file is re-sent free of charge, and a further print of the same chart can be ordered at the standard print price without repeating the design stage.

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