I want to get my name legally changed. I almost have all the money to do so but I am scared that family that I am not out to will find out. One of my family members might be okay with it but I am almost certain my grandparents will not be. I know I am an adult and I need to move on with my transition or things will not be good for me.

This is basically my first step since I have not taken T or had any surgery so I am actually kind of scared. I am exited too but right now it feels like being one the edge of the diving board.

Also to the guys (and girls too!) that have had their names changed what was your experience and do you have any tips? I am in Washington if that helps with any legal info.

The only family that would know are ones you live with sine you'll get mail. I've never had any other family members find out until I told them. Although, there were a few that wrote me cheques for my birthday or whatever, and I was fortunate to have an understanding bank manager who would still let me cash them in the old name.

I know exactly how you feel cause i did the exact same thing - changed my name and family still doesn't know. It's well worth it in every other aspect ( but I still fear they'll find out some day, some way).

There are a number of scenarios where they might find out about it: if the name is on your mailbox...if your parents need a copy of your birth certificate for some reason (don't know what such reasons would be in the U.S.), if you're a student, they might need a copy of your student's ID for their taxes....if there's a family insurance plan.....an inheritance matter...if money is sent to you etc.

I just filed for name change, and I haven't told my family. I'm not sure if I even will.

so much mail comes through the door that has to have correct name on it is inevitable the new name will not be secret for long.

its the 21st century now so the battle to transition has been fought and won so take advantage of this and go get yourself analysed to try figure yourself out and see if the need for a new name is due to a need to transition to something or just some teenage angst that may disappear before long.

on the other hand if your family has always see you as a tomboy they may hardly bat an eyelid if you choose a male name 'to better fit my personality'.

I got mine changed. My mom is the only family member who knows as of right now. I got a P.O. Box for myself to avoid mail coming to the house in this name, so my brother doesn't find out. So far, so good. Only been a problem with a couple friends sending stuff to the house addressed to Mr. Kyle ********    :s  Good luck on it, Mr.Rainey