Names

Choosing a new name can be part of transition for nonbinary people who feel their birth name does not correctly or entirely reflect their gender and/or gender expression. Many nonbinary people choose a name that is not coded specifically as male or female, a neutral name, to avoid being labelled as one or the other based on their name. However, a gender neutral name is not a necessity; the same goes for choosing a new name in general. Some nonbinary people choose names with feminine or masculine connotations, or choose to keep their birth name.

Choosing a Name

The process of choosing a new name, if one should so desire to do so, can be a process of trial and error. For some the process may be relatively short, while others may test out many different names before deciding on one, and some may stay with one name for a long time before realizing another suits them better.

There are some questions you can ask yourself about names that may help you on your process and help you find the right name, or figure out what kind of name you want:

• Is the name compatible with your cultural or ethnic background? Avoid cultural appropriation.
• Are you wanting a name that would be typical to kids born around your time? Do you want a kind of vintage feel to it? Or would you rather it be uncommon?
• Is the name you're considering potentially a nickname for other names, or, is it a name that will easily get you nicknamed? Are you okay with this?
• Are you looking for any specific sentiment or meaning for your name to have?
• Do I want to legally change my name, and if so, is it a name I can legally obtain within my country? Some countries have laws and regulations about names and name changes.

Legal Name Changes

United States

In the United States, the specifics for obtaining a legal name change can vary depending on the state you live in. Because of this, it is best to research the specifics for the state you are a resident of.

England and Wales

Here, you can change your name by obtaining a Change of Name Deed, commonly known as a Deed Poll.