Request for Genealogy Research

Research Assistance
Do you need help researching your Iowa ancestors?  Let the IGS Research Department help you with our hourly research program.
 
Please Read Carefully!
 
Restrictions
Research will not be performed for any living person(s).
Research will not be performed for adoption cases.
Research will begin only after payment has been received.
Research will be limited to any of Iowa's counties.  Research will not be performed for locations outside of Iowa.
NOTE: Legislation for Iowa vital records (birth, marriage, death) was passed in 1880, however mandatory compliance was not enforced till 1920.  This can limit the time period concerning when vital records can be found.
 
Rates
  • Members: $20 per hour
  • Non-Members: $30 per hour
All rates include copying and postage fees
If paying online, a fee of $2.50 will be added to cover credit card processing expenses.  This will be identified as "Shipping Costs" on the payment screen.
 
 
 
 
How to Place Your Request for Research
Requests can be submitted either online or by postal mail.  Choose the method that works best for you.  See below for instructions.
 
 
Steps to Submit an Online Request for Research
Members:
  1. To take advantage of your member rate, you must login to the website first. 
    1. If you have trouble or cannot recall your Login Name and/or Password, see the Login Problem instructions in the center of the screen
  2. After completing your login, return to this webpage. 
    1. Click on the Research Payment option that now appears in the colored banner on the left side of your screen. 
    2. OR Click Here to be directed to the webpage where you can take advantage of your member research rates.
 
Non-Members:
  1. Complete the Research Request found at this link:  Information Collection for Research Request
    1. Selecting the above link will open an email that will be addressed to our research team.  Provide your information regarding your request. 
    2. Send your email when ready.  
    3. If this is not working on your computer, then please follow the steps listed below for submitting a hardcopy (paper) request.
  2. Next, select the Pay Now button (below) to pay for your research.   
    1. Your payment will be processed through PayPal, however you DO NOT need a PayPal account to complete your payment. 
    2. After clicking the "Pay Now" button below, scroll down a little on the screen and you will find the option to pay with your credit/debit card.
    3. NOTE: $2.50 will be added to your payment to cover credit card processing expenses.
  3. Remember, research will not begin till after your payment is received.
Non-Member Rate: Select Number of Research Hours
 
 
 
 
Steps to Submit a Hardcopy (paper) Request for Research
Available to Members or Non-Members 
  1. Click the button (right) to display the Request for Research form.  Print the form.
    1. Write clearly to complete the fields in the form. Use another sheet of paper if you need more space.
    2. Provide as much information as possible to explain your request.
    3. Complete all fields identified as required
  2. Mail the Request for Research form along with your payment to:
Attn: Research
Iowa Genealogical Society
628 E Grand Ave
Des Moines, IA 50309-1924
 
 
After submitting your Research Request and Payment
Our research team will be in contact with you regarding any questions or clarifiying information that might be needed.