Legality of pseudonyms when selling artwork?

Question

I was wondering what the laws are in regards to using a pseudonym when selling/commissioning artwork. Do you have to register somewhere so you can be paid properly, such as checks being made out to the pseudonym--how do you deposit them in your real name, do you have to somehow get your pseudonym linked to your real name for social security purposes, etc.

I'm looking into opening a small tattoo design commission and fantasy artwork site just to make a few extra bucks off of my hobby. Any information or links as to the legality would be much appreciated. Thanks!

Answer 1

Simple way to do this is register a "d/b/a" name, that's "doing business as" with the town clerk or county clerk. You can then go to a bank and open an account under that name, the account will be listed as "Yourname, d/b/a someothername". Any checks can just read "someothername", and you can accept and deposit checks made out to "someothername".

You won't file a separate return for the business, but you will need to file an additional form, Schedule C. A lot of things you already have to buy for the business may become deductible, like supplies you use to create the designs.

Answer 2

Perhaps the easiest way would be to set up a company that would officially run the site and payments would be made to the company. It could also have other tax and liability advantages.

Answer 3

Sounds like very creative original work. Not a problem.