Work begins with the $350 assessment fee and a Formal Research Plan you approve in writing before any research starts.
Projects are usually confined to a single surname, run 30–40 hours, and split time evenly between investigation & analysis and writing.
Our rate is $90 per hour; you authorize a not-to-exceed total, exclusive of the assessment fee.
We work as an independent contractor; adhere to Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG) standards; like any reputable genealogist we cannot guarantee specific discoveries or conclusions.
Your information is kept confidential; reasonable out-of-pocket expenses are reimbursable and disclosed in advance.
You receive a pre-agreed product (e.g., a documented final report, a family tree, a coffee-table book, etc.); payment in full is required before final delivery.
HoldenWorks retains copyright; you may share the report with immediate family for personal use.
Either party may terminate in writing; you owe only for work and expenses through that date.
This summary is for orientation only. The downloadable PDF below is the actual agreement and, once signed, governs the engagement.
How to proceed
If you haven’t already, begin with a Feasibility Assessment (below left).
We will then deliver your research plan.
The Research Agreement should be signed and submitted after we deliver your research plan.
Read the full agreement using the download button (below right).
Submit the Research Agreement using the e-sign portal.