What's the process of getting/using a stage name? Are there legal requirements?

Question

My last name is complicated. People can never pronounce it or spell it, and my mom didn't even bother changing her last name when she got married because of this. I also have a pseudonym that about half the people I know call me by. When I continue acting, I intend to use said pseudonym (because I'm so used to it), as well as my mother's last name.

Do I have to change my legal name to do this? How would I go about using this name? Would signing with it be considered fraud? Are there any other requirements for doing this?

Thanks.

-Tamora

Answer 1

First: Get A Stage Name.... (Ex: Deri Gribza)

Second: Put Your Real Name On Resumes, But Have A Section For Stage Name.

You do not need to go through any legal Smish Smosh, Just tell your director to use your stage name.

Answer 2

You can use whatever name you want without changing it legally (unless it is for purposes of fraud, which a stage name would not be).  

You should check with the SAG/AFTRA listings to see if there is an actor who already has the name.  If there is, you can add a middle name or change the spelling a bit.  

For ease of payment of earnings, you could have your checking account with a dba (i.e. John Kzamsnki dba: John Smith).

If you're in California, here's info on changing your name legally:

http://www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp/oth...

Answer 3

Are you in the UK?  US?

It all revolves around your Equity name.  Both have a rule that when you join the union, your name must be unique.  That's why you get a lot of three-named actors, like "Laura Bell Bundy", and lots of actors using two first names, like "Craig Scott" - using a first name and middle name.  I'd recommend contacting whichever union is appropriate for you about the legal issues!  But a LOT of performers use a Stage Name rather than their legal name, the system must be in place simply enough.