Can I use a pen name for my business?
A business pseudonym is referred to as a "Doing Business As (DBA)" or a Tradename, and they are perfectly legal and very common.
Some jurisdictions allow you to registered DBAs and tradenames, but not all..
How do I prove ownership of a pen name?
Attorney Helen Sedwick says, “I recommend that authors register their pseudonymous works under both their real names and pen names.
This creates a permanent record of ownership, and few readers are going to research copyright records and find out the author's real name.”.
Is a pen name copyrighted or trademarked?
The work will be copyrighted under your own name - as the writer.
The nom-de-plume that you use while writing is automatically your trademark.
Take J K Rowling.
Her real name is Joanne Rowling… but she also writes under the pen name of Robert Galbraith..
Is it legal to use a pen name?
Yes, an author can legally use a pen name or pseudonym to publish their intellectual property.
Pen names are legal, as long as you have purchased the rights to your pen name, and have copyrighted your name.
An author of a copyrighted work is allowed to use a pseudonym or a pen name..
Pen names list
There is no problem registering if you use a pseudonym or pen name.
For clarity, we recommend that when you complete the 'Copyright owner' section of the application form you state both your real name and the pseudonym.
You should use one of the following formats: Real Name (pseudonym: 'Pseudonym'), or..
What is a legal pen name?
Are pen names legal? Yes, an author can legally use a pen name or pseudonym to publish their intellectual property.
Pen names are legal, as long as you have purchased the rights to your pen name, and have copyrighted your name.
An author of a copyrighted work is allowed to use a pseudonym or a pen name..
- Pen names are legal, but you'll need to do your research and make sure you're operating your business according to the laws in your local jurisdiction.
You may need to register your pen name as a trademark, or start a corporation to make your pen name a “legal entity.”
