FamilySearch GEDCOM Upload: What You Need to Know Before You Start

In this episode of Family Tree 123, Jonathan walks you through how to upload a GEDCOM file to FamilySearch — one of the world's largest and completely free genealogy databases. Whether you're moving data from RootsMagic, Legacy, Family Tree Maker, or another program, this step-by-step guide covers everything you need to know: preparing your file, protecting privacy, and navigating FamilySearch's upload process. You'll also learn about the important difference between FamilySearch and other platforms: GEDCOM uploads are a one-way street, and downloading data back out requires authorized desktop software. Jonathan explains why — and how to work with it. 🌿 CHAPTERS: 0:00 – Intro 1:24 – GEDCOM info for FamilySearch 2:44 – FamilySearch Surprising LIMITATION 3:35 – Understanding the Reason for the Limit 5:05 – Tutorial: Upload Your GEDCOM file 6:42 – Review Your GEDCOM data 7:31 – Potential Matches 9:06 – Already in FamilySearch 10:00 – Add to FamilySearch 11:30 – Tips for Preparing your GEDCOM file 12:30 – Return to the Reconciliation Window 12:54 – Copy David Mills Duplicate 13:40 – Merging a Duplicate Profile 16:01 – Wrap up 16:43 – Thought for the Day Family Tree 123 is your go-to channel for practical, encouraging genealogy tutorials — helping you discover your ancestors, tell their stories, and leave a lasting legacy. 🙂 Who Am I? Hi! I’m Rev. Dr. Jonathan Mills; a retired Pastor, lifelong researcher, and avid genealogist. I find building my family tree exciting and enjoyable because I love discovering new sources, connecting with other genealogists, and producing a family story to share with my children and subsequent generations. I am also an avid cyclist, computer enthusiast, world traveller, musician, and student of cross-cultural relations. Oh yeah … I am also a husband and father of 4 + 3 grown children (blended family). ❤️ Special Thanks to FamilySearch for providing a great website experience. ❤️ Looking for more Genealogy Help? Why not try "Lisa Louise Clarke - Genealogy Gems" 👍 If this helped you, please like and subscribe — and let me know in the comments what genealogy software you're using! 🔗 HELPFUL LINKS: FamilySearch.org: https://www.familysearch.org RootsMagic (authorized FamilySearch sync): https://www.rootsmagic.com Legacy Family Tree (authorized sync): https://www.legacyfamilytree.com Family Tree Maker (authorized sync): https://www.mackiev.com/ftm/