Contributing 

Can I use a different spelling of my name?

Leia Doyle

Can I use a different spelling of my name?

Typically, you can change your name, or the spelling of your name, to whatever you desire. However, some exceptions exist. For example, you can’t change your name to escape paying your debts or avoid arrest. Additionally, you can’t create a name that’s confusing by using symbols and numbers instead of letters.

Can you spell your name however you want?

Even today there really are no rules for spelling names. You can spell your name any way you want. With modern records, once you have a social security card (now issued at birth), a birth certificate and a driver’s license or passport, it is usually too much trouble to vary the spelling.

What is a name variation?

A name variant is an alternative of a name that is considered to be equivalent to that name, but which differs from the name in its particular external form. Name variants occur for many reasons, including: Spelling variations (For example, Geoff and Jeff) Nicknames (For example, Bill for William.

Is it rude to ask how do you spell someone’s name?

Yes, that would be rude. You are saying that you know the only correct way to spell the person’s name, and suggesting that they might not know their own name. The “correct” way to spell or pronounce a person’s name is the way they spell or pronounce it.

Why is a surname called a surname?

What is a surname. In the English-speaking world, a surname is commonly referred to as a last name because it is usually placed at the end of a person’s full name, after any given names. In many parts of Asia and in some parts of Europe and Africa, the family name is placed before a person’s given name.

What are the most popular last names?

50 most common last names in America

  • Smith.
  • Johnson.
  • Williams.
  • Brown.
  • Jones.
  • Garcia.
  • Miller.
  • Davis.

How can I correct my Social Security spelling mistake?

You can correct the spelling when you file or by calling us toll-free at 800-829-1040. When you file, check that both your name and SSN agree with your social security card to prevent any delays in processing your return and issuing any refunds.

What happens if you call someone the wrong name in an email?

Simply be up front and state the correction directly the first time the error is made. If, after you were introduced, someone addressed you as Mary, you might correct him by saying, “It’s Marie ending with an “ie.” If you are in a large group and the error is made, make the matter-of-fact correction just the same.