What is the Process for Changing a Legal Name?

• The criteria and required documentation to legally change a student's name is available on the Financial, Billing and Enrollment Center website.
• The criteria and required documentation to legally change an employee's name is available on the Human Resources Forms Library webpage.

Kent State University has two options to accept payments from 529 Plans – online and by mail. 

What Is the Process for Having the Chosen Name Appear on the FLASHCard?

• Once a chosen name has been approved, allow two business days for the name to appear in the systems. It is highly recommended that a new FLASHCard is obtained with the chosen name as soon as possible. The chosen name will be on the front of the card and the legal name will be printed on the back of the card.   

Is There a Cost to Have a New FLASHCard Created With a Chosen Name?

• No.

Will the Chosen Name Be Used Everywhere at Kent State?

• No. The chosen name will be used where possible in the course of University business. There are places where the legal name will continue to be used for University business or legal needs. Those who are utilizing the chosen name should always be prepared to reference their legal name as well as provide their university identification when necessary. 

Where Will the Chosen Name Appear?

The Chosen Name will be implemented in the systems below.

How Is a Chosen Name Requested?

• A chosen name is requested through FlashLine. Please follow these instructions:
  • Log into FlashLine
  • Click on Settings to access Chosen Name, Pronouns, and/or Gender Identity Requests in the Secure Account Access Section
  • Click on Update Chosen Name.

Can Any Name Be Submitted as a Chosen Name?

• No. The University has the authority to deny or remove a chosen name at any time. Only the first name can be updated with a chosen name. Middle and last names cannot be updated through the chosen name process.

Can a Middle or Last Name Be Changed Using the Chosen Name?

• No. Only the first name can be updated with a chosen name.

What is a Chosen Name?

• Individuals may desire to be addressed by a name that is different than their legal name. Building a sense of belonging is part of Kent State University’s mission statement, and we recognize that some use a name other than their legal name to identify themselves. Kent State University has established a process for identifying a chosen name.
• The chosen name will be used where possible in the course of University business.