Ranges of transition costs: Research/Support

Research is very important. The more you know, the better you'll do. That's why I've done this whole site. Knowledge is power. Read as much as you can. Get advice from those in your area who are successful. Write letters to people whose websites or newsgroup posts impress you. Preparation is the key.

Books/tapes: The range assumes the examples have bought from zero to a dozen or more books on TS issues. I hope to add to my list of recommended books soon.

Subscriptions: Some women decide to subscribe to TG magazines like Tapestry, or a local newsletter. Again, I hope to put together a more complete list of recommended periodicals soon.

National groups: Despite some in-fighting and redundancy of services, the big groups have been especially good about championing legal and political causes. They set the agenda for our movement in many cases. They also can be excellent resources. For a list of groups to consider, please see my resources page.

Local groups: This can be very important way to find local products and services, as well as contacts and support. A local group may also be concentrating on an important issue that's more pressing in your area. Some are more socially-oriented, and many women find this accepting, open environment to be a great confidence-builder when starting out. For a list of groups to consider, please see my resources page.

Conventions: There are several national conventions held every year in various parts of the country. These often give attendees a chance to meet and hear national leaders and to participate in the most up-to-date issues. Plus, I hear the social stuff is great fun, and there's a very diverse crowd covering the spectrum of gender expression. You will need to figure in travel and lodging in addition to registration costs and fun money.

Do not base your own budget on these examples!

• Example 1 is the minimum anyone has reported for the category-- best-case.
• Examples 2, 3 and 4 represent standard ranges, with Example 3 as my attempt to show the most typical.
• Example 5 is the maximum anyone has reported for the category-- worst-case.

• ^[1] Read all notes in purple for explanation of estimates.
• The "Your estimate" column will be filled in as part of Exercise 7.

• ^[1] Assuming three years of subscriptions/memberships.
• ^[2] Assuming three years of attending three national conventions annually.