GEDCOM Troubleshooter

From the Family Tree Forum Reference Library

I have exchanged gedcom files with someone but there is missing information from the files

Because every program handles data differently, exporting and importing data via a gedcom does not always transfer data as expected. These small mismatches most commonly occur when an old programme and a newer program are involved.

You may find that the import or export options of your software may need to be changed, please consult the instuctions/help section for your software to verify how to change your import/export options.


To verify where the problem occurs try examing the file in text format by opening the file with Noterpad.

Examining the GEDCOM file in Notepad is valuable as a diagnostic step. It will help you determine whether the problem is occurring during export or during import.

To open a GEDCOM file in Notepad, right-click on the GEDCOM file, choose Open With, and then Notepad.

Opening a gedcom file with Notepad