Pope Leo XIV Set to Receive $33,000 a Month as Vatican Pays for Every Luxury in His New Life of Power
Call it pennies from heaven. Newly installed Pope Leo XIV is entitled to a massive monthly stipend that's estimated at $33,000, sources say — in addition to other pricey perks as the head of the Roman Catholic Church.
Even though Pope Leo may have plenty of dough at his disposal, the 69-year-old pontiff's every need will be provided for by the Vatican, which is the world's smallest independent country.
That means the leader of the globe's 1.4 billion Catholics — who was formerly known as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost — won't have to pay a cent for ecclesiastical clothing, accommodations, travel, food, health care or security.
Leo will have access to a fleet of vehicles, official residences and a generous allowance for donations for his spiritual stewardship.
He will also oversee a vast financial empire that includes Peter's Pence — an annual collection from Catholics around the world that generates over $25 million annually for support of the pope's mission and charitable works.
Chicago-born Pope Leo's predecessor, Pope Francis — who was known for his humble lifestyle — refused any personal income during his tenure from 2013 to 2025. Pope Francis also famously chose to live at the modest Domus Sanctae Marthae guesthouse on Vatican grounds — instead of the traditional papal residence in the opulent Apostolic Palace.
Sources suggest Pope Leo may follow in Pope Francis' footsteps and have his salary directed to charity.
While the first American pope answers to a higher authority, he may still have to pony up to Uncle Sam — unless U.S. officials give him a pass on filing a tax return.
Edward A. David, an assistant professor in the department of theology and religious studies at King's College London, says, 'U.S. tax law claims the right to tax all citizens on their worldwide income. There is no blanket exception for religious personnel nor for people who are diplomats/head of state for foreign countries such as the Vatican.'
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