Whether it is a name given at birth, a name that was chosen for oneself, or a name
that has changed over time, it carries deep significance by reflecting the values and
experiences that have shaped lives. Names are central to our identities and more than
just a tag or a label. A legal name change is an important and affirming step for many
transgender and nonbinary people in their transition because the name they were given
at birth sometimes does not align with their gender identity. Affirming a person’s identity
can be lifesaving and key to their mental health. Changing one’s name helps individuals
transition socially so that they can begin to externally live as their true gender to their
families and peers. Pursuing legal gender affirmation through a legal name change is an
important process to obtaining Government identification that is usually necessary to
access healthcare, housing, education, and employment resources. Pursuing a legal
name change is an important step towards gender affirmation which leads to social,
political, and psychological legitimacy. The U.S. Transgender Survey has reported data
that individuals who take the steps to update their Government identification had lower
instances of serious psychological distress, suicidal ideation, and suicide planning than
those who have not. Additionally, a legal name change consistent with one’s gender
identity will help in developing internal resources to cope with gender-based
mistreatment and discrimination. Below are valuable resources to guide you through the
process of changing your name:
1. This resource is a step-by-step guide to changing legal identity documents:
08/Iowa%20Guide%20to%20Changing%20Legal%20Identity%20Documents%2
010th%20Anniversary%20Edition%20August%202024%20Final.pdf
2. This is a free resource to help you electronically fill out the forms to change your
name or change the name of a minor in Iowa:
3. Still confused? Contact Lavender Legal Center!
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