Ancestry is a popular website for family history tracing, providing ample genealogical records and tools. Family Tree Maker is the most used family tree organizing software, making it simpler and quicker to conduct research. Many wonder how much using FTM will cost and if there are additional hidden fees. This blog explains the cost of Family Tree Maker and any extra expenses you should know about, so you can choose the best option for your needs.
One-Time Family Tree Maker Purchase
This means you don’t have to keep paying month after month, as is the case with most other genealogy software. You pay once and then you can use the software forever without further cost. It also includes useful features such as easy synchronization and customizable features for enhanced family tree organization. Family Tree Maker is once-purchased software. The newest version is available as a digital download for $149.95. There are no subscription costs—you own the software in perpetuity.
Other Expenses
While Family Tree Maker itself does not have recurring fees, you may require other services to maximize its use:
Ancestry Subscription: FTM is compatible with Ancestry.com, where you can synchronize your tree and access historical records. For the use of these features, you require a stand-alone Ancestry subscription, which will cost:
- $24.99/month or $149/year for US records
- $39.99/month or $299/year for international records
- $49.99/month or $389/year for complete access
Additional Features: Additionally, users may opt to use FamilySync (to synchronize trees across different devices) or TreeVault Cloud Services (to save trees online), which can incur additional fees.
Free and Paid Ancestry Features
The free option is perfect for beginners who only need to create and save their family tree. Serious genealogists, however, might find it restrictive because most important research documents, census data, and DNA matches are hidden behind the paid options. Ancestry.com allows you to create a simple family tree for free. But to view detailed historical records and research tools, you’ll need a paid subscription.
Which Option Is Best for You?
- For occasional users: If you only want to make a family tree, the initial purchase of FTM is sufficient.
- For serious researchers: If you require access to records and more advanced tools, you will also need an Ancestry subscription.
Final Thoughts
Family Tree Maker itself is a one-time purchase, but additional services such as Ancestry subscriptions can contribute to the expense. If you are just starting out, you may be able to get by on the software alone, but as your study expands, you may find that you need more features. Be thoughtful about how much you need and how much of a budget you have before choosing the best solution. Whether you’re a hobbyist family historian or a serious genealogist, Family Tree Maker is a good base for finding out and keeping your family’s past.
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