Fact Check Team: How much money can a president legally make while in office?

WASHINGTON (TNND) — A new financial disclosure showing President Donald Trump reported billions of dollars in income during 2025 has renewed questions about how much money a sitting president can legally earn—and where the ethical boundaries are.

The disclosure details income from cryptocurrency ventures, real estate, licensing deals, investments and other business interests. While critics have raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest, the report also highlights an important distinction: what is legal under federal law versus what some ethics experts believe raises concerns.

The president of the United States receives an annual salary of $400,000, along with a $50,000 expense allowance, a $100,000 travel account and other official benefits.

President Trump has said he does not accept that salary, instead donating it to various federal agencies during his time in office. That decision is separate from any income he receives through privately owned businesses or investments.

Can a president own businesses while serving? Yes. Unlike many other federal officials, a president is not required to sell private businesses or place assets into a blind trust before taking office. A president may continue to own companies, real estate, investments and other assets while serving.

Federal law does require presidents to file annual public financial disclosure reports that identify many of their income sources, assets and liabilities.

The president of the United States receives an annual salary of $400,000, along with a $50,000 expense allowance, a $100,000 travel account and other official benefits. (TNND)

In addition, while many executive branch employees are subject to the federal criminal conflict-of-interest statute, the president is exempt from that law because of longstanding constitutional and legal interpretations. Other ethics requirements and constitutional provisions, including the Constitution's Emoluments Clauses, may still apply.

The disclosure reports that Trump earned more than $2 billion in income during 2025, with a significant portion tied to cryptocurrency ventures, as well as revenue from licensing agreements, real estate holdings, investments and other businesses.