How to Find Lost Family Members

Finding a lost family member has become increasingly easier over the last several years, though it still takes a great deal of work and can be time consuming. It requires a lot of dedication and patience but can be worth the time and effort when you find the person or people for whom you are looking.

Things You'll Need

• Pen or pencil
• Paper
• Internet connection
• Telephone, e-mail, regular mail

Instructions

Build Your Family Tree

1. Complete a family tree with as much information as possible so you can determine whom you want to look for.

2. Call or write members of your immediate and extended families and tell them whom you're searching for.

3. You may also find useful information in public records or by visiting Web sites dedicated to locating missing people, by searching social networking sites or by approaching former neighbors in the last-known location where the the missing person lived.

4. Gather all information you find in your search and determine if the person you have found indeed is a member of your family. Names alone do not guarantee a family connection, and other characteristics and specific details can help determine if you have found your lost family members.

5. Once you have found the person and have determined that there is a family connection, you can decide whether you want to contact him. Initiating contact can be nerve-wracking, but it also can be exciting and even beneficial if you and your family member connect on a personal level and build a relationship.

Tips & Warnings

• - Gather as much information as possible about the person you are looking for before checking public records or visiting Web sites. - Expect only what is reasonable so that you are not let down if the results are not as you expected or hoped. - Before you begin the search, decide what you want to get out of your experience.

• - Beware of people attempting to contact you when you make your search known. Sometimes people will claim to be part of your family, especially if they believe money may be involved. - Do not reveal your identity or disclose personal information to anyone unless you feel completely comfortable. - Do not pay for online assistance unless you determine the legitimacy of the source and its likely helpfulness.

References

• YourFamily.com
• My Life

Resources

• DIY Spy
• Myspace
• Facebook