How can I legally own a pseudonym?

You can register a manuscript under a pen name at the copyright office (www.copyright.gov). You’ll have to provide some information, including your real address. But if you really want to keep your true identity under wraps, set up a post office box and have information from the office sent there.

Does a pen name have to be registered?

There’s no real legal process to using a pen name – typically you can just pick one and use it. While most states have laws requiring people doing business under another name to register with the state, these laws generally don’t apply to writers using pen names.

Do you have to trademark your pen name?

2: Pen names cannot be trademark protected. The author must prove that the name has “secondary meaning” by being part of a unique brand that is used in marketing and commerce, and is widely recognized. Like J.K.Rowling which is a trademark owned by Joanne Rowling.

How do you come up with a pseudonym name?

To choose a pen name:

1. Identify the right age for your pseudonym.
2. Choose options that fit your literary genre.
3. Check the availability of your pen name’s URL and social media handles.
4. Choose a name that’s easy to spell, pronounce, and remember.
5. Make sure your pen name isn’t similar or identical to another author’s.

Can you run a business under a pseudonym?

Having a business with a fictitious name is definitely legal, provided that you have filed the proper documentation (such as registering your business, incorporating, or filing a “doing business as” statement), and carried out the proper trademark searches.

Can I use my maiden name as a pen name?

It is perfectly legal to use your maiden name as a pseudonym, or any other name you choose.

Is a pen name a business name?

It’s also perfectly legal. Most people use such names to become famous under (they pick a name that has better marketing value than their own), and also for privacy purposes (given their intent to become famous). As a sole proprietor form of business, you could actually mix the too and register your pseudonym as a DBA.

Do publishers like pen names?

Like brand names, many authors try to make their pen names catchy, memorable and suited to the genre and their target audience. Traditional publishers widely accept pen names. In fact, some of the most well-known, famous authors have used a pen name to conceal their identities.

Is it legal to write under a pseudonym?

Fortunately, the answer is an unqualified yes. There’s no legal reason why a writer can’t use a pen name — a pseudonym — and still get copyright protection for everything she writes.

Can I use a pen name instead of my given name?

In many cases, a writer will use a pen name for his work and his legal name for contract signing, receiving payments or tax purposes; however, some people prefer to use their pen names in lieu of their given name, and this can be done legally with a little effort.

How do I use a pen name as a copyright claimant?

If you want to be identified by your real name in Copyright Office records, check the box marked “pseudonymous” and provide your pen name where required. You then will list your real name as the copyright claimant. If you don’t want to be identified by your real name in Copyright Office records, use your pen name as the copyright claimant.

Do I need to register a pen name for trademark protection?

While most states have laws requiring people doing business under another name to register with the state, these laws generally don’t apply to writers using pen names. However, you may want to register your pen name for trademark protection and be aware of the potential contractual and copyright consequences of creating work under an assumed name.