LIAM’s Name Change Project now offers free clinics for transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary individuals, instead of one-on-one appointments.
We assist these individuals in navigating the complex legal process of changing names in Illinois*. For many in the transgender community, obtaining a legal name change is a crucial step toward aligning their legal identity with their authentic selves. Lack of appropriate identity documents can create barriers to employment, education, and access to public services, often leading to discrimination.
*While this service is available to all Illinois residents, we can only provide financial assistance (outside of fee waivers), transportation, and specific fee information for Winnebago and Boone counties. If you have any questions, please contact us by email: [email protected]. For Illinois residents outside of our service area reach out to:Â Transformative Justice Law Project, Name Change Mobilization Program.
How Our Process Works
Step 1: Complete the Name Change Registration Form
All initial requests for name change assistance must be submitted through our online registration form below.
Step 2: LIAM Determines Your Eligibility for Assistance
Sometimes, we may need to complete a follow-up intake, to gather additional information about your financial standing or to prepare you for the required documentation if assistance is needed. These intakes typically take 10-15 minutes, are conducted by LIAM staff members, and are confidential.
Step 3: Review and Sign Participant Agreement
Before you begin working with a member of our team, you’ll be asked to sign a Participant Agreement, which outlines key details of our program.
Step 4: Make a Plan to Visit Our Center
You can stop in on Monday or Wednesday from 10 AM – 5 PM or set up an appointment for days and times outside of that to meet with a staff member about filing your name change. Virtual meetings are an option as well, please let us know if you need accommodations.
We look forward to helping you, meet your goals! Please contact us with any questions.
Note: LIAM does not directly represent individuals seeking legal name changes. Instead, LIAM aids participants in the Name Change Project with filing pro se—everyone has the right to file an action on their own. However, remember that as a pro se litigant, you are representing yourself.
Tell Us About Yourself
Disclosure: Collection of Demographic Information
At The LIAM Foundation, we collect demographic information to better understand and serve the diverse needs of our community. Demographic data includes but is not limited to age, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status.
The information collected helps us: Ensure Inclusivity, Identify Disparities, Measure Impact, Advocate for Funding & Comply with Legal Requirements.
At The LIAM Foundation, protecting the privacy and confidentiality of individuals’ demographic information is paramount. Thank you for helping us gather this valuable information to better serve you and our community.