Using your middle name and maiden name to make an appointment is not illegal. Many people, particularly women, in reception-type positions in the business world have similar business cards made, and answer the phone in that same manner, out of an "abundance of caution". Free lance and editorial authors often use a pen name to protect their identity when they think their work may be controversial enough to put themselves in danger.

What IS illegal is the use of a false name with intent to defraud or deceive (meaning cheat, lie or steal): leasing property under a false name; giving a false name to a peace officer; or causing medical records to be recorded under a false name.

So, here's a quiz: legal or illegal?

False ID for liquor: illegal
False name meeting guys in a bar: not illegal
False name on a deed: illegal (felony)
False name for pizza delivery: not illegal
False name for legal or business purposes: illegal

Keeping track of who was told what: a problem

It's a good idea to give your proper name virtually all the time. Any exception should be carefully thought through.

---

If satisfied, please click "Accept", it is how I get paid. If not, don't Accept, ask for clarification! I am here part time, forgive delayed replies. Please leave Positive feedback after you Accept, so others can prejudge the quality of my responses.

---