A question about using a different name for jobs, business etc.

[blackman83]

As-Salaam Alaikum, HOTEP!

How do you go about using a name you have chosen for yourself to obtain employement, open a bank account, and to be recognized by the name you gave yourself instead of the name given to you at birth and on your birth certificate? I think it's silly to go pay the government to change your name. I read in some law articles you can sign your name any way you want but i've also heard that you could get into some legal trouble doing this. Thanks to anybody in advance!

[Djehuty]

If you are dependent on the system (government; corporate America) then it's easiest to go through the System.

If you have freedom, you can use the common law approach and do it yourself and it won't cost you anything but maybe $10 for a notary public.

In some cases, you must have some government (court) issued document to support your name change if you want the name refelcted on government documents. But first, try using your own common law documents with the agency and see how things play out. Sometimes all you need is an affidavit of name change. It will vary from state to state.

Peace!