Comments on: We Ask, You Answer: Have you used a pseudonym?

By: Rachel

Rachel — Sat, 04 Aug 2007 20:36:56 +0000

I have used one quite a few times…The editors know it is me…but I often need to do it to avoid saturation in a few markets. There was one time when my articles were going to appear in seven mass market mags at the same time…and one of them had three of my articles in it. We put a pen name on one of those…

In small conflicting markets I will also use a pen name- and tell both editors I am doing so. I just remind them when I invoice them

By: DianaBurrell

DianaBurrell — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 13:13:28 +0000

Check your state/town “DBA” requirements. In Massachusetts, for example, all you have to do is file a form with the town clerk that states you’re doing business as “Pseudonym Here.” They’ll give you a certificate or business license, which you can bring to the bank when you’re opening an account; you’ll be able to deposit checks written out to that pseudonym. Every state/town has different requirements, though, so don’t take my word as gospel!

By: Lauren

Lauren — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 12:44:39 +0000

I write with my maiden name. I try to explain this to editors before the checks go out, but sometimes I still get paid under my maiden name. In that situation it pays to carry around a certified copy of my marriage certificate, just in case the bank questions it. But the idea of a DBA account sounds like it would work out for anyone using a “real” pseudonym.

By: Jen A. Miller

Jen A. Miller — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 02:09:52 +0000

My writing name — Jen A. Miller — is not my legal name. My legal name is Jennifer Marie Miller. The A comes from my confirmation name, and I think it looks better. Not quite a pseydonym, but enough that I worried about it. Most checks are made out to “Jennifer Miller,” which is what I put under “Pay to” on my invoices. But some include the A, and it’s close enough that I’ve never had a problem.

I’ve used a completely fake name twice. In college. Enough said.

By: LindaFormichelli

LindaFormichelli — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 21:50:07 +0000

Thanks, Denene! That’s great advice.