Here are some resources to change your name and gender marker in Summit County

Whether you’re navigating legal changes on the state or federal level or simply looking for resources in Akron and Summit County, this guide offers essential information for making informed decisions and accessing the services available to LGBTQ+ individuals.

Learn how to research the laws affecting those in the LGBTQ+ community and their statuses here. These changes can complicate navigating legal processes, such as updating your name or gender marker.

How to change your name in Summit County 

In Summit County, a law took effect in 2021 that eliminated the requirement for publishing name change applications and the requirement for a hearing — a judge or magistrate may decide to hold a hearing in cases for minors, or as they deem necessary. 

Applications can be found on the Summit County Probate Court website. An applicant must have lived in Summit County for at least 60 days. 

Documents needed for filing: 

• Name change application. 
• Photocopies of birth certificate, driver’s license or state ID card, Social Security card and passport (if applicable).
• Photocopy of any identity document showing the applicant’s current legal name. 
• An affidavit (written statement verifying the information on the application is true).

Minors are required to provide a waiver signed by both parents (or legal guardians). If all guardians have not signed the waiver, then an affidavit must be signed proving that due diligence has been done. 

The filing fee for a name change is $125 (there is an additional 3% fee for paying by credit card). Those interested in filing online can find the e-file information on the court’s website. 

For applicants with questions or who may need assistance with an application, volunteer attorneys will be on site at Summit County Probate Court (209 S. High St., Akron) Friday, Jan. 24, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for a Birth Certificate and Name Change Clinic. Summit County residents can bring their required documents and be assisted with the legal name change process, as well as gender marker corrections on Ohio birth certificates. And probate magistrates will be available to process filings and issue orders on site. 

There will also be financial assistance available for those who need it. The event organizers recommend bringing $10 for parking. 

How to change your gender marker on Ohio birth certificates

For making corrections to an Ohio birth certificate, applicants must be Summit County residents or born in Summit County. To change the gender marker on a birth certificate, individuals must file an application for a “Change of Birth Record” in probate court. Along with the application, a certified copy of the current birth certificate must be included. 

Applicants will also need to provide one of the following:

• A Licensed Professional Statement and one notarized affidavit “completed by an individual who is not the applicant and who has personal knowledge of gender status.”
• Two notarized affidavits by people who have knowledge of the applicant’s gender status. 

Additionally, applicants must present at least two pieces of acceptable evidence that verify their gender status. The list of acceptable evidence includes a name change order from the court, employment or insurance documents reflecting a chosen name or a driver’s license with a gender marker that matches the request. 

The cost for birth certificate correction is $40. 

Local support organizations for LGBTQ+ Akron residents 

A number of Akron-area organizations are dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ individuals. Included are some Ohio-wide organizations as well. 

• TransJoy Akron is a local nonprofit that connects transgender people (and other people in the LGBTQ+ community) to educational resources, peer support and social events — they host social events that are open to people of all ages and identities, including allies to the LGBTQ+ community. 
• TransOhio is a statewide advocacy organization for the transgender community that offers educational and legal resources.They also provide an emergency fund for people affected by the anti-trans laws in Ohio. 
• CANAPI (Community AIDS Network Akron Pride Initiative) is an LGBTQ+ advocacy and support organization that provides a range of services, including free HIV testing, housing assistance and a bi-weekly food pantry. 
• The Bayard Rustin LGBTQ+ Resource Center, named after the civil rights activist Bayard Rustin, is dedicated to “providing comprehensive care” for LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly people of color and non-binary individuals. Their services include HIV testing, mental health referrals, a clothing bank, a food pantry and more.
• Black Transmen of Ohio seeks to change the experiences of Black transgender men and non-binary individuals through “increased visibility, community-building, facilitating resource access and advocacy.”
• LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland provides resources, support and advocacy for LGBTQ+ individuals in the Greater Cleveland area. They offer a range of services, including support groups, access to healthcare and training. 
• PFLAG Akron provides support for LGBTQ+ individuals and their families. The organization meets on the third Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. at First Congregational Church (292 E. Market St.).