Contact Me

Ah! Now the money and the bottom line.

To quote Joan Rivers, "Can We Talk?"

To quote Barrack Obama: "Yes we can!"

To quote Craig Kilby: "Let's just talk about money."

Money is a very personal topic, yet it is such an important one as well. It all too often leads to huge misunderstandings and expectations, and is probably the root cause of more human misery than love itself.  Sad but true. It's the human condition, and one of them we'd best address up front. Time is indeed money and here is how I measure some of mine:

I am currently accepting new projects and clients, though please be aware that existing and repeat clients take priority.

Normally, the research fee is $40/hour plus expenses. A minimum retainer of $350 is required for new genealogical projects.

(1) For genealogical projects, please send a brief (no more than ten pages) description of your research problem. This typically includes a cover letter out-lining the problem and basic supporting data clarifying what research has been done to date and your research objective.

The general outline of most genealogical projects is:

(a) Initial contact by phone to discuss the project and client objectives. This includes email correspondence.  No fee. We may just not like each other.  Hopefully, this is where we decide that this is going to work or not work.

(b) A $150 fee for analyzing your data and developing a research plan and on-line sources for the client to use.

(c) A retainer for 10 hours for field research and compiling as a Phase I Report for your project. This will include suggested follow ups and ideas for future work. This is always done in conjunction with you (the client.)

(2) For Research projects. These are bid on a case-by-case basis. Retainers are required. A typical retainer for research and special projects is $500.

(3) Subcontracting. I don't presume to know everything. If I ever act like that, please kick me. That's why I have friends who know more than I do when it comes to specialties. I maintain a broad network of knowledgable colleagues with whom I subcontract when the need arises. Their fees are passed on to the client--with their prior approval of course--with no mark-up by me. Most of the time, we simply operate on a quid-pro-quo basis. Which is a fancy way of saying we help each other at no charge, which means you aren't billed at all.

You may contact me by either e-mail or US mail. Please include your phone number and the best times to reach you. Or, you may call me at either 804-462-7714 (land) or 314-562-3723 (mobile).*

Craig Kilby
2160 River Road
Lancaster, VA 22503
craig@craigkilby.com

*Recommended. Mobile & Voice Mail: 314-562-3723