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Do I Have to Use My Real Name on Substack?

Published in Substack Naming Options 3 mins read

No, you are not required to use your real name on Substack. Substack offers flexibility regarding the name you choose to publish under, allowing you to use either your legal name or a pseudonym (pen name).

Understanding Your Name Options on Substack

While many creators opt to publish under their real names for authenticity and personal branding, Substack acknowledges that this isn't always the preferred or most practical choice for everyone. You have complete freedom in deciding what name appears on your publication.

  • Using Your Real Name: If you wish to use your real name, even if it is a very common name or one similar to another established author, you are certainly welcome to do so. After all, it is your identity. This choice often helps in building a strong personal brand and direct connection with your audience.

  • Opting for a Pen Name (Pseudonym): Choosing a pen name is a perfectly valid reason for various considerations. It's not uncommon for authors to use a pseudonym to:

    • Maintain privacy or separate their professional identity from their personal life.
    • Create a distinct brand for their writing that may differ from their other public activities.
    • Avoid confusion if their real name is common or could be easily mistaken for another public figure or author.
    • Experiment with different writing styles or genres under a new persona.

Considerations When Choosing Your Substack Name

Your choice of name can influence how readers perceive your content and how easily they can find you. Consider the following:

  • Branding and Recognition:

    • Real Name: Can enhance trust and authenticity, especially for personal essays, journalism, or expert content. It links directly to your personal brand.
    • Pen Name: Allows for creative branding and can help you carve out a unique identity specifically for your writing, especially if your real name is difficult to spell or pronounce, or if you prefer a more thematic name.
  • Privacy and Public Profile:

    • Using a pen name can offer a layer of privacy, shielding your personal identity from your public writing presence. This can be particularly appealing for sensitive topics or if you wish to maintain a low profile in other areas of your life.
  • Discoverability and Searchability:

    • While a unique pen name might be easier to search for directly once known, a real name, especially if you have an existing public presence, can leverage your existing recognition.
    • If your name is very common, a pen name could help you stand out and avoid being lost among search results for others with the same name.

Ultimately, Substack empowers you to make the choice that best suits your goals, comfort level, and the nature of your content.