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Worker404
Inspiring
January 26, 2026
Question

Is it allowed for the photographer to sign with the account name in model release?

  • January 26, 2026
  • 2 replies
  • 51 views

Hello contributors, 

I would like to check if it is allowed for the photographer ' stock contributor account owner' to sign the model release document with the account name instead of his legal name.

 

I mean, my name in contributor account is 'Worker', that is certainly not my real name. according to this information 

From an adobe document "The photographer's first and last name on the model release must match exactly with the first and last name on your contributor account." I should use that name in my account to sign the document. BUT, shouldn't the model release document be a legal document so you should use your actual name?

 

I would like to know if it's allowed to use my account name or not.

2 replies

Jill_C
Community Expert
Community Expert
January 26, 2026

Your account nickname is not your legal name. When you initially created your stock account, you entered your legal name, and that is the one that must appear in the release.

Jill C., Forum Volunteer
RALPH_L
Community Expert
Community Expert
January 26, 2026

No! This is a legal document.

When it comes to legal documents like model releases, Adobe—and the legal system in general—requires your legal name.

Think of a model release as a binding contract. If a dispute ever arises regarding the right to use someone's likeness, an "account name" or "alias" won't hold up in court.

Worker404
Worker404Author
Inspiring
January 26, 2026

I understand, but take a look at this paragraph from an Adobe's document:

The photographer's first and last name on the model release must match exactly with the first and last name on your contributor account.

 

If so, I will have to change my account name to my real name, consequently, refilling W8-BEN.

Let me inquir about something more, if 'you' decided to  fill the model release, would you fill it as Ralf L?

Nancy OShea
Community Expert
Community Expert
January 26, 2026

Your LEGAL name is not your screename.

Which name receives royalty payments?

Which name is on your tax withholding form? 

Your LEGAL name is the same as your government ID card.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nancy O'Shea— Product User & Community Expert