Sometimes you need to access more than one Ancestry account – perhaps you manage a family member's tree, have a separate account for research, or want to switch between a free account and a subscription. This guide explains how to log in with a different account on the same device, whether you're using a computer or the mobile app, and how to switch back and forth smoothly.
Unlike some services, Ancestry does not allow you to be logged into two different accounts at the same time on the same browser or app. To use a different account, you must first sign out of the current account, then sign in with the other credentials. This guide walks you through that process on various devices.
Tip for frequent switchers: You might consider using two different browsers (e.g., Chrome for one account, Firefox for the other). You can stay logged into both simultaneously this way, as cookies are separate per browser. Alternatively, use a browser's profile feature (like Chrome profiles) to keep accounts separate.
Note: The Ancestry app does not support multiple accounts simultaneously. If you need to switch often, you can use the app for one account and a mobile browser (like Safari or Chrome) for the other – they can stay logged in separately.
Most modern browsers allow you to create multiple profiles, each with its own cookies and saved logins. This is an excellent way to stay logged into two different Ancestry accounts at the same time on the same computer.
This works similarly in Firefox (with containers or profiles) and Edge (with profiles). It's the only way to have two different Ancestry accounts active simultaneously on one computer.
If you try to sign in with a different account without signing out first, you may see an error or be automatically redirected. Always sign out completely before attempting to log in with different credentials on the same browser or app.
When logging into a different account, you'll need to complete 2FA if it's enabled on that account. Make sure you have access to the appropriate phone number, email, or authenticator app for that specific account.
If you sign out of the app and then sign in with a different account, but later the app seems to switch back, it could be due to cached data. Try these steps:
If your browser has saved passwords for multiple Ancestry accounts, it might autofill the wrong one. Double‑check the email address displayed before clicking Sign in. You can manage saved passwords in your browser settings.
If you're unsure which Ancestry account you're logged into, look at the top‑right corner of the website or the profile section of the app. Your display name or email is usually shown. You can also go to Account settings to see the email address.
No, Ancestry does not allow merging of accounts. Each account is separate with its own trees and DNA data. If you have two accounts, you cannot combine them into one. You would need to manually transfer information or choose one as primary.
Not within the same browser or app. However, as mentioned, you can use different browsers or browser profiles to stay logged into two accounts simultaneously on one computer. On mobile, you can use the app for one account and a mobile browser for the other.
No. Each account's data is stored securely on Ancestry's servers. Switching accounts only changes what you see – it does not alter or delete data in the other account.
No. DNA results are tied to the specific account that activated the kit. You will only see DNA data for the account you are logged into. To view DNA for another account, you must log into that account.
Ancestry does not have a direct “transfer tree” feature between accounts. However, you can export a tree as a GEDCOM file from the first account and then import it into the second account. Note that some data like media and hints may not transfer perfectly.
Logging into Ancestry with a different account is straightforward: sign out of the current account, then sign in with the new credentials. While you cannot be logged into two accounts at once within the same browser or app, using browser profiles or different browsers offers a workaround for simultaneous access. By following the steps and tips in this guide, you can easily manage multiple Ancestry accounts for yourself or your family members.