Pseudonym Verification Guide

Why We Need Verification

If you want to publish under a pen name (like "Mark Twain" instead of "Samuel Clemens"), we need to verify that:

You own the pseudonym and have rights to publish under it
You are the actual creator of the content
We can legally pay you and protect against fraud
Your real identity is secure while maintaining public anonymity

📋 Verification Options

Choose ONE of the following options that works best for you:

🏛️ Option 1: Copyright Registration BEST

Official copyright registration showing both your real name and pseudonym from the U.S. Copyright Office or equivalent.

Cost: $65 (USA)

Processing Time: 3-6 months

Strength: Government-verified proof

📝 Option 2: Notarized Affidavit EASIEST

Sworn statement connecting your real name to your pseudonym, signed in front of a notary public.

Cost: $15-25

Processing Time: 30 minutes

Strength: Legally binding

🏢 Option 3: Publisher/Agent Affidavit

Letter from your publisher or literary agent on official letterhead, stating they represent you under both names.

Cost: Free

Processing Time: 1-2 days

Strength: Third-party verification

🌐 Option 4: Social Media + Domain REQUIRES MORE PROOF

Verified social media accounts (Twitter Blue, LinkedIn) and author website with both names.

Cost: Free - $20/month

Processing Time: Instant

Strength: Circumstantial (usually requires additional proof)

📜 How to Get a Notarized Affidavit (Recommended)

This is the easiest and fastest option for most authors. Here's the complete step-by-step process:

Step 1: Download & Print

Download our Pseudonym Affidavit Template and print it out. Do not fill it out digitally.

Step 2: Fill It Out

Use BLACK INK only
Fill in all blanks with your information
DO NOT SIGN YET - you must sign in front of the notary

Step 3: Find a Notary Public

Where to find one:

Your bank (often free for customers)
UPS Store ($15-25)
Local post office
Mobile notary services (search "mobile notary near me")
Some libraries and government offices

Step 4: Bring Required Documents

What you need:

Government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport)
The unsigned affidavit
Cash or card for notary fee ($15-25)

Step 5: Sign & Get Notarized

Notary will verify your ID
You'll sign the document in their presence
They'll complete their section and add official seal/stamp
Takes 5-10 minutes total

Step 6: Scan & Upload

Scan or photograph the completed document
Notary seal must be clearly visible
Save as PDF
Upload to AuthorMind Hub during Author Mode verification

✅ What Happens Next

We Review (1-2 business days)
- Verify document is properly notarized
- Check seal/stamp is visible and valid
- Confirm information matches your account
Approval
- Your pseudonym is linked to your real identity in our secure system
- Learners see your pen name publicly
- Payments process to your real name
- You're protected from impersonation
Rejection (rare)
- We'll explain why (usually: notary seal unclear or incomplete info)
- You can resubmit with corrections immediately

🔒 Your Privacy is Protected

Your real name is stored securely and encrypted in our database. Only platform administrators can see it, and it's NEVER displayed publicly to learners. Payments are processed to your legal name through Stripe, but this information is kept completely confidential. Your pseudonym is your public identity on AuthorMind Hub.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use multiple pseudonyms?

A: Yes! Submit a separate verification document for each pen name you want to use.

Q: Will learners see my real name?

A: No. Only your pseudonym is public. Your real name is stored securely for legal and payment purposes only.

Q: Do I need this if I use my real name?

A: No. Pseudonym verification is only needed if you're publishing under a different name.

Q: What if I live outside the USA?

A: Same process! Find a notary public in your country (called "notaire" in France, "notario" in Spain, etc.). The affidavit format is internationally recognized.

Q: Can I use an online notary?

A: Only if your jurisdiction allows remote online notarization (RON). Check your local laws. Most states in the US now accept RON.

Q: How long is the affidavit valid?

A: Permanently, unless you legally change your name. Then you'll need to submit a new one.

Q: What if I'm traditionally published?

A: Even easier! Just ask your publisher for a letter on their letterhead confirming your pseudonym. This is Option 3 and doesn't require notarization.

Q: Is my real name ever shared?

A: Only if legally required (court order, law enforcement request). Never for marketing or to learners. We take your privacy seriously.

🛡️ Legal Protection for Everyone

This affidavit is a standard legal document used by publishers worldwide, including Amazon KDP, Medium, Substack, and major publishing houses. It protects:

✍️ Pseudonym Verification Guide