Do I use my Birth name or my Adoptive Name to set up my Profile?

+7 votes
164 views
I just joined today. Of course, I just plugged in my married name, the name I use on a daily basis -not thinking about it. Oops. So then I realize my mistake and that I need to set up my profile the big million dollar question is - do I set up my profile with my Birth Name (Glorya Jean Turner-Dixon) or my Adopted Name (Cheryl Marie Bence)?

Just wondering what the easiest way to get this started. Thanks so much for your time!!
WikiTree profile: Cheryl Hayton
in Policy and Style by Cheryl Hayton G2G Crew (760 points)
retagged by Abby Glann
Great question Cheryl!  I started out using my married name too and had to fix that immediately.  I think this is going to be a personal decision for you but, definitely follow Brett's advice below and put in the "other names" whether they are adoptive or birth.  This will help your profile show up on the name lists.

Welcome to WikiTree!  This is an awesome, friendly place.
Thank you so much Kathy!! It's all a bit overwhelming at the moment... and it seems like I will have to wait till tomorrow to make my correction. Uploaded my GEDcom... so hands off tonight so I don't make any more mistakes... lots of reading to do and then hopefully I can jump on in! It looks like amazing information and really cool people - so I am excited!!

2 Answers

+5 votes
Use your birth name but also add in the "other last names " spot your adopted name.
by Brett Rutherford G2G6 Pilot (127k points)
Thank you!!! I will go ahead and use my birth name!!
+6 votes
I personally used my biological name and than used my current as my adopted surname. It really depends what side of the family you choose to collaborate and also if it a sensitive issue

Best of luck
Welcome to wikitree!
by Anthony McCabe G2G6 Pilot (382k points)
Thanks so much!! I will go ahead and use my birth name. Both of my adoptive parents have passed on so there isn't any issues with that. I appreciate your help!!
Visited your profile, Stephen, to see what it looked like. Then wanted to see how we might be related but the privacy setting of your tree won't allow me to do so. Did you realize that?

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