US IRS to Audit Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Archewell Foundation

Reports from early to mid-January 2026 indicate that the Archewell Foundation is reportedly at risk of an audit by the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS). One source has claimed it is a matter of "not if, but when" the audit will occur. An official, formal investigation by the IRS has not been publicly confirmed as of January 16, 2026, and no wrongdoing has been alleged. 

Overview of the Situation

Potential Triggers Financial reports from December 2025 that showed $7.5 million in expenses versus $3.1 million in donations for 2024 may have triggered "red flags" with authorities. Non-profits with large, unspecified costs or a financial deficit are more likely to be audited.

Restructuring In December 2025, the organization announced it was rebranding from The Archewell Foundation to Archewell Philanthropies and would operate under a fiscal sponsor to process donations. This means their activities would fall under the sponsor's audited reports and tax filings.

Past Filings In May 2024, Archewell received a "delinquency notice" from the California Attorney General's office for a late filing, but the situation was quickly resolved, and the foundation was confirmed to be in "good standing". A spokesperson at the time stated all necessary paperwork had been filed without error.

Official Statements No official statement from the IRS confirming an audit is publicly available, as the IRS does not typically comment on individual cases. Representatives for the foundation have previously stated the organization is fully compliant with all procedures.