geocities won't let me upload my .htaccess file. it's called .htaccess.txt (is that right?) and I don't think it lets you upload files that start with a period. or should my file be named error404.htaccess or something? plz help!

the file should be
.htaccess
no filename or further extensions on it.

geocities does not allow htaccess files on it.

yeah i think it can only work for domains...

IF you are using it in the future when you get hosted or something you can upload it and it will be named .htaccess.txt after uploading. This is the same with .php (will be .php.txt after uploading) and some other things. (in my experience)

After uploading you just rename those files and they should be fine. The icon should change too (if you use FTP program or FTP windows). No matter what you do on your computer to rename them .php or .htaccess they will be .php.txt and .htaccess.txt online so don't bother to rename them offline, just rename them online.

love,
Mirna