Lilian Nyiva
King Charles III has become the first reigning British monarch to publicly disclose the amount of tax he has paid, revealing that he paid £12.9 million (approximately KSh2.2 billion) in personal taxes during the 2024–2025 financial year.
The disclosure was made in the Royal Household's latest financial report, marking a historic step towards greater transparency in the finances of the British monarchy.
Source of the King's Income
According to the report, the King's tax payments include voluntary income tax and capital gains tax on his private income. Much of this income is generated through the Duchy of Lancaster estate, along with personal investments.
The Sovereign Grant, which finances the monarch's official duties, remains exempt from taxation under the existing constitutional arrangements.
A First for the British Monarchy
The publication of the King's tax bill is the first time a reigning British monarch has revealed the amount of personal tax paid. The move sets a new precedent for openness and accountability in the Royal Household's financial affairs.
Part of a Wider Transparency Drive
Buckingham Palace said the disclosure reflects King Charles III's commitment to modernising the monarchy and increasing transparency. The financial report also indicates that the King has paid more than £30 million in personal taxes since ascending to the throne in 2022.
Public Reaction
The announcement comes amid ongoing public debate over royal finances and the use of public funds to support the monarchy. Supporters have welcomed the disclosure as a positive step towards greater accountability, while critics continue to call for broader financial transparency from the Royal Household.
