Creators

Stage name and legal name: where each one has to appear

Updated: 2026-08-17 Holdwise editorial team

You can use your stage name as a registered trade name of your company, on your website, in your communication and in contracts. Your legal name appears in the trade register, at the bank, in the notarial deed and in your tax return. Invoices need the full legal name of the company, and clients check this. At Holdwise, we keep this answer up to date and change it when the rules change.

The trade name

Your company has an official name and can use one or more trade names next to it. Your channel name can be one of these trade names. You register it with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KVK) and use it in your communication. The trade name belongs to your company.

You use the channel name in public, on your website and in contracts. The company keeps its official name, which is often plainer.

Where your legal name appears

In the trade register, as director and as ultimate beneficial owner.
At the bank, for the identity check.
In the notarial deed of formation.
On the payslip and in your tax return.

These entries are mainly for official use. The home address of a director is shielded by default. Since 2022, the register of beneficial owners has been closed to the general public. You can read more in who can see what in the Dutch registers.

The legal name on invoices

An invoice must show the full legal name of the company, its value-added tax (VAT) number and its trade register number. You can also show the trade name and use it in the design. The official name must still be on the invoice. Clients check this and send back an incomplete invoice.

The name as an asset

With a registered trade name, you are protected against confusion in the same market. For wider protection, register the name as a trademark. For the Benelux countries, you do this at the Benelux trademark office. Keep the trademark in your holding company, separate from the risks of the operating company. When you sell the brand, the trademark and its value go to the buyer. You can read more in selling your channel or brand.

You also decide which address becomes public with your company. See deciding your address before you incorporate.

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Part of Doing Business in the Netherlands, the complete 2026 guide.

Frequently asked questions

Can I trade under my channel name? +

Yes, as a registered trade name of your company. You use it in public, on your website and in contracts. The company keeps its official name.

Does my legal name go on invoices? +

The invoice shows the full legal name of the company plus its VAT and trade register numbers. The trade name may appear beside it.

How do I protect my name? +

Register it as a trade name for protection in the same market. For wider protection, register it as a trademark and keep the trademark in your holding company.