cross-posted from: https://lemmygrad.ml/post/5913910
Over the past few months, I've been working on legally changing my name and gender. Throughout my journey, I've noticed a glaring lack of information about the process. The information that I could find has been incomplete, outdated, or both. Also, most existing resources assume you know how to do things like send mail, but I'd never done any of that, so I had to figure all of that out for myself, with some help from my amazing friends, of course.
So, I decided to document the entire process in detail to help other trans people who want to do the same. So far, I've only covered updating California state documents and some U.S. federal documents, since that's where I live and what I have experience with. I tried to include answers to every question I had, and details about how in-person visits to various government facilities work so that people like myself wouldn't be as anxious. I also wrote guides on the other skills you'll need to complete this process, including sending mail, filling out checks, etc.
However, this process is different everywhere. I only have experience with California, but I'd like this resource to grow into something that can help people everywhere, so here's how you can help:
- Write about your experiences: If you've completed or are working on a legal name and/or gender change wherever you live (including places outside the U.S.), document the process. Once you're finished, contact me (Elara) at support@elara.ws, and I can work with you to get your resources published. Also, feel free to contact me if you need help documenting your experiences or even navigating the name/gender change process itself, and I'll try to help as best I can. You don't have to be an expert or a perfect writer, just sharing what worked for you is enough.
- Check existing info: If anything on the website is difficult to understand, incorrect, outdated, or you just feel like a change needs to be made for whatever reason, let me know! I want this resource to stay accurate and helpful to everyone.
- Share the resource: If you know anyone or any community that could benefit from or contribute to the information in this resource, tell them about it. I'd like this to help as many people as possible.
- Provide feedback: If there's anything you think could be improved, let me know. I'd love to hear your ideas.
Here's the link to the full resource: https://trans.queer.my.id
And to the California guide specifically: https://trans.queer.my.id/books/californiaFeel free to message me here or email me at support@elara.ws if you're interested about contributing to this or just want to talk about it!
Geez they don't make easy in California. Here you only have to go to a court if you're under 16 (still have to use the archaic postal system when normal birth registration is entirely online)
Yeah, it's definitely an annoying process (though much easier than most other U.S. states). Luckily, you only have to file the papers in court. You don't actually have to show up to a hearing unless someone objects with good cause (meaning they think you're changing your name for fraudulent reasons). The main problem is the extremely high $435 filing fee and $40.50 for every certified copy (you need three, so $121.50).