An improved method of collecting identifying information (such as samples and data) from a subject to facilitate later identification of said subject. Identifying information may include biological samples, medical records, photographs and videos, audio recordings, odor characterization (of body or exhalations, for example, characterizing a disease such as diabetes), fingerprints, dental records, and the like. Such a identification kit may be comprised of some combination of the following items: a data recording medium (such as a CD, DVD, flash card, or other memory card, other memory device, or printable data such as a barcode or chart); a first receptacle (such as a plastic bag, vial, or other container) for hair samples; a dentition recorder such as a tooth impression wafer; a second receptacle for a blood sample, which may be part of a blood typing kit or other blood sample collection kit; address information, such as a mailing label which may be supplied already attached to an envelope or other mailing container, or e-mail address, or URL, for sending a copy of collected identifying information to an administrating business; a cheek retractor to facilitate obtaining a dentition record; and a fingerprint kit.