Pen Names and Copyrights

This thread has some great info. There are other threads dealing with pen names -- go to the Writing Novels board and look at katiemac's FAQ thread (it's a sticky, I think third or fourth from the top) and the other pen name threads should be in there too.

mauricesempine said:

I intend to use a pen name for my fiction works. I got to thinking (normally not a good sign) that a copyright held by a pen name might not mean a lot.

How can I retain the copyright without revealing by real name?

Any ideas?

Maurice

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You hold the copyright, whatever pen name you use. The only difference is this; if you actually register the work under the pseudonym. you receive a straight 95 years protection, rather than the life + 70 you get if you register under your own name.

You can, however, go back and re-register the work under you real name at any time you wish.

The problem is not with the pseudonym and copyright. The problem is getting paid and dealing with the IRS.

I do have a few things registered under pseudonyms, but those who need to know have my real name and contact info. Using a pseudonym to hide your real name from everyone usually isn't very wise.

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mauricesempine said:

moth,

thanks--I think the 10th post in that thread answered my question. A corporation needs to be established to hold the copyright if you don't want your identity shown in the published book.

No reason the corporation couldn't be ThePenName Inc. or any other name you choose.

Maurice

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I think you're reading something wrong in that thread. You do not have to be incorporated. I have no clue why anyone would think this. All you have to do to hold the copyright in a pen name is to fill out the proper part of the form you get from the U. S. Copyright office.

The U. S. Copyright office allows any individual to register any work under a pen name. No corporation needed, and your real name does not have to appear in the published book.